What does a Construction Worker do?
Published 3 min read
A construction worker is someone who works on the construction of buildings, roads, and other infrastructure. Construction workers typically do manual labor such as digging trenches, operating heavy machinery, and lifting heavy materials.
Construction Worker job duties include:
- Read and interpret blueprints, drawings, and specifications to determine work requirements
- Erect and disassemble scaffolding, rigging, and other working platforms
- Signal equipment operators to facilitate alignment, movement, or connection of construction materials
- Install insulation in walls, ceilings, and floors using hand tools or portable power tools
- Spread mortar or concrete using trowels, floats, edgers, and other hand tools
- Lay bricks, blocks, stone, tile, or other masonry units to construct or repair walls, partitions, arches, sewers, or other structures
- Build wooden forms for pouring concrete or laying asphalt pavement
- Remove debris and trash at construction sites using rakes, shovels, wheelbarrows, and other equipment
- Operate jackhammers or drills to break up concrete or asphalt
- Direct traffic at construction sites
Construction Worker Job Requirements
There are no formal education requirements for construction workers, although completing a vocational program or an apprenticeship can be helpful. On-the-job training is typically required. Some states have certification requirements for construction workers who perform asbestos removal or lead paint abatement. Construction workers typically need several years of experience before they can advance to supervisory or management positions.
Construction Worker Skills
- Blueprint reading
- Excavation
- Carpentry
- Masonry
- Plumbing
- Electricity
- Roofing
- Drywall installation
- Painting
- Tiling
- Concrete work
- Landscaping
Related: Top Construction Worker Skills: Definition and Examples
How to become a Construction Worker
Construction workers are in high demand and there are many opportunities for those with the right skills. If you’re interested in a career in construction, here’s what you need to know.
Most construction workers start their careers as laborers. Laborers do a variety of tasks, including loading and unloading materials, digging trenches, and operating heavy equipment. Many laborers learn their skills on the job, but there are also training programs available through unions and technical schools.
As you gain experience, you may move up to a position such as carpenter, electrician, or plumber. Construction managers plan and coordinate construction projects, while estimators calculate the cost of materials and labor.
If you’re interested in a career in construction, it’s important to have good math skills and be able to read blueprints. Physical strength and stamina are also important, as construction work can be physically demanding.
There are many different types of construction jobs available, so you can find one that matches your skills and interests. With hard work and dedication, you can build a successful career in construction.
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