Laborers are essential members of construction crews, performing a wide range of tasks that support skilled trades such as bricklayers, cement masons, and carpenters. Their work can range from unskilled to semi-skilled duties.
Wages
Hourly Wage: $50.58
Hourly Benefits: $36.30
Laborers are employed on nearly all types of construction projects, including highways, bridges, tunnels, large commercial buildings, sanitation systems, and residential developments. They are typically on-site from the beginning of a project through its completion. Their responsibilities include handling materials, operating hand and power tools, and assisting with various construction activities.
Laborers use equipment powered by gasoline, electricity, or compressed air, such as pavement breakers, pumps, compressors, lasers, and concrete vibrators. Their work may include clearing land, placing and finishing concrete, landscaping, installing pipes, and performing many other tasks as needed.
Working Conditions
Laborers work both indoors and outdoors in a wide variety of environments, including at ground level, at heights, underground, or even in water. The job is physically demanding and requires frequent lifting, carrying, climbing, kneeling, balancing, and crawling. Because of the varied and sometimes hazardous conditions, laborers must have a strong awareness of safety practices.
Aptitude and Interest
Laborers must be versatile and adaptable, as their work supports many different trades. In addition to physical strength and stamina, they should have basic reading and math skills to operate modern tools and equipment effectively.
Training
Becoming a skilled laborer involves hands-on training, which may include:
- On-the-job training
- Employer-sponsored training programs
- Trade or vocational/technical school instruction
- Training programs sponsored by labor or management
- Registered apprenticeship programs combining classroom and field experience
- A combination of these methods
Formal training programs are generally considered to provide more comprehensive skill development.
Recommended High School Courses
Students interested in this field should consider taking English and basic mathematics.
Ready to start your career as a Laborer?
Learn more about Laborer apprenticeships in CT.
**Wage and compensation information based on CT Department of Labor data reported as of July 1, 2025.
******Apprentices are paid on a graduated scale as their skill and experience increases.