The most common definition of a general laborer is a non-skilled employee who is hired to complete physical, hands-on work. Usually, no prior knowledge or experience is required for these positions since most employers automatically provide new hires with any training necessary. Laborers can work at a wide range of locations, both indoor and outdoor, such as construction sites, factories, warehouses, office buildings, homes, parks, landscaping sites, and pretty much any area where physical labor is needed.
Currently, the average general laborer salary is just under $36,000 per year, which is an almost $10,000 increase from February 2021’s estimated total of $27,300. Although these figures are averages, the pay range can vary from around $22,000 to over $60,000, depending on the job. The majority of laborers work full-time schedules and are often given the opportunity to work overtime as well, maintaining 40+ hours a week. Some jobs may even require extended and/or overnight shifts, whereas some are only seasonal, temporary, or part-time.
General laborers can acquire a number of different position titles and be assigned to perform a myriad of various tasks and skills specific to the job. They can be hired for anything from moving, painting, loading and unloading, housekeeping and other types of cleaning, operating tools and machinery, and removing hazards, to digging trenches, and performing assembly, quality inspection, and maintenance responsibilities, etc. The list of options is virtually endless.
While no formal training is usually required, a high school diploma or G.E.D. (typically called a General Education Development Test, General Education Diploma, or Graduate Equivalency Degree), is preferred. In addition to high school (or equivalent) experience, these positions also expect a suitable resume and often the willingness to advance in the field through gaining experience, obtaining certification, and achieving progress and growth. Other skills often recommended include physical strength, balance, dexterity, stamina, time management, focus, patience, diligence, precision, efficiency, communication, computer knowledge, and technology experience.
More examples of general labor positions include custodians, packers, movers, gardeners, landscape technicians, forklift operators, maintenance specialists, welders, arborists, tree climbers, carpenters, electricians, plumbers, irrigation technicians, pool maintenance workers, package handlers, production workers, and farm laborers.
