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What does a Laborer do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

A laborer is someone who performs physical work. This could include construction work, factory work, or manual labor.

Laborer job duties include:

  • Unloading and loading materials
  • Lifting heavy objects
  • Digging trenches
  • Pouring concrete
  • Assembling scaffolding
  • Cleaning construction sites
  • Operating machinery
  • Painting
  • Repairing equipment

Laborer Job Requirements

There are no formal education requirements for laborers, although on-the-job training is typically provided. Some employers may prefer to hire candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent. Certification is not typically required, but some employers may prefer or require certification from the American Society for Testing and Materials (ATSM). Experience is not required, but it is helpful.

Laborer Skills

  • Able to lift heavy objects
  • Stamina to work long hours
  • Strength
  • Endurance
  • Good hand-eye coordination
  • Mechanical skills
  • Basic math skills
  • Safety consciousness
  • Ability to follow instructions
  • Physical fitness
  • Willingness to learn

Related: Top Laborer Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Laborer

There are many different types of laborers, but they all share some common characteristics. Laborers are typically hardworking and physically fit individuals who are not afraid of manual labor. They are also usually comfortable working long hours in difficult or challenging conditions. If you think you have what it takes to become a laborer, there are a few things you can do to increase your chances of success.

First, research the different types of laborers and find the one that best suits your skills and interests. There are laborers who work in construction, manufacturing, agriculture, and many other industries. Once you know what type of laborer you want to be, get some experience in that field. You can volunteer for projects or internships to get a feel for the work and to build up your resume.

If you don't have any experience, consider taking some classes or training programs that will teach you the basics of being a laborer. Many community colleges offer courses in construction trades or other manual labor fields. These classes can give you the skills you need to get started in your chosen field.

Once you have some experience under your belt, start applying for jobs as a laborer. Many companies are always in need of hardworking individuals who are willing to put in the long hours required to get the job done right. With a little perseverance and dedication, you can soon find yourself working as a laborer and enjoying the satisfaction that comes with a job well done.

Related: Laborer Resume Example

Related: Laborer Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

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Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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