Jobs

Construction Jobs: Start Your Career with Salaries from $17/hour

Construction jobs offer steady work, pay starting at $17/hour, and career growth with major U.S. companies hiring across the country.

Advertisement

Rewarding opportunities and steady employment nationwide

Construction Jobs
Rewarding opportunities and steady employment nationwide. Source: Adobe Stock

Starting a new career often comes with uncertainty, but the Construction sector offers something many industries cannot: long-term stability and room for growth. 

card

Now Hiring

Construction

Career Stability

Start in construction with pay from $17 to $30+

You will be redirected to another website

Many enter construction seeking a reliable paycheck, but they stay for the sense of pride that comes from completing something tangible and essential to society. 

If you’re someone eager to roll up your sleeves and start earning, construction might be your perfect match.

Discover what positions are available in Construction Jobs

Construction is a broad field with roles suitable for entry-level workers and those with more experience. Here are some of the most common positions you will find:

  • General Laborer: Assists with site preparation, material handling, and clean-up tasks. No prior experience is required, and training is often provided on the job.
  • Construction Helper: Supports skilled tradespeople like carpenters or electricians by delivering tools and materials and helping with installations.
  • Carpenter Apprentice: Works alongside experienced carpenters to learn how to build and repair wooden structures and frameworks.
  • Concrete Laborer: Prepares and pours concrete for foundations, sidewalks, and other structures. This role often involves heavy lifting and teamwork.
  • Equipment Operator: Handles machinery like bulldozers, forklifts, or backhoes to move materials and assist with construction projects.
  • Masonry Worker: Builds and repairs walls, floors, and other structures using bricks, stones, or concrete blocks.
  • Electrician Apprentice: Assists licensed electricians with wiring, repairs, and installations, while gaining hours towards certification.
  • Construction Foreman: Supervises teams on job sites, manages schedules, and ensures safety protocols are followed. Typically requires prior field experience.

Construction jobs offer many ways to get started, and with dedication, workers can advance into higher positions like site supervisor, project manager, or specialized technician roles.

Average salaries in Construction Jobs

PositionTypical Pay
General Laborer$17 – $20 per hour
Construction Helper$18 – $22 per hour
Carpenter Apprentice$20 – $24 per hour
Concrete Laborer$19 – $23 per hour
Equipment Operator$23 – $30 per hour
Electrician Apprentice$20 – $25 per hour
Construction Foreman$60,000 – $80,000 per year
Additional earningsOvertime pay, union bonuses, and benefits

Salaries in construction can vary depending on the job type, location, and level of experience. 

Entry-level roles like General Laborer or Construction Helper typically start around $35,000 to $40,000 per year, but workers can quickly increase their income by learning new skills or certifications.

Skilled roles, such as Equipment Operator or Electrician Apprentice, offer higher pay due to the technical knowledge required. 

Supervisory positions like Construction Foreman can lead to annual salaries of $60,000 or more, especially in busy metropolitan areas or on larger projects.

Construction is also known for offering extra earning potential through overtime, union benefits, and project-based bonuses, making it an attractive choice for those seeking financial growth without a college degree.

card

Now Hiring

Construction

Career Stability

Start in construction with pay from $17 to $30+

You will be redirected to another website

How is the Construction sector growing?

The construction industry in the U.S. is growing steadily, with job opportunities expected to rise by 4% in the next decade. 

Infrastructure upgrades, housing developments, and commercial projects continue to drive strong demand.

Major employers like Bechtel, Fluor Corporation, Turner Construction, Kiewit Corporation, and Skanska USA regularly hire for entry-level and skilled roles nationwide. 

These companies offer steady employment and opportunities for career advancement, making construction a solid choice for job seekers looking for growth and stability.

The perks of working in Construction you should know about

Construction jobs offer more than just a paycheck. Here are some key benefits that attract workers to this field:

  • Job Security: Continuous demand for construction projects ensures a stable job market.
  • On-the-Job Training: Many roles require no previous experience, with training provided on site.
  • Career Advancement: Entry-level workers can move up to supervisory roles or specialize in trades like plumbing, carpentry, or electrical work.
  • Union Membership: Many construction jobs are unionized, offering additional protections and benefits.
  • Variety of Work: Every project is different, keeping the job interesting and challenging.
  • Travel Opportunities: Some positions allow you to work in different cities or states.

These perks make construction an attractive option for those looking for a solid career path with room to grow.

Must-have skills to land a job in Construction

Construction Jobs
Must-have skills to land a job in Construction. Source: Adobe Stock

While many construction jobs are open to beginners, certain skills can make you stand out to employers:

  • Physical Stamina: The ability to handle physically demanding tasks for extended periods.
  • Teamwork: Working closely with other crew members to complete projects safely and efficiently.
  • Basic Math: Measuring materials and calculating quantities is part of many tasks.
  • Attention to Detail: Ensuring structures are built correctly and safely.
  • Willingness to Learn: Openness to on-the-job training and skill development.
  • Safety Awareness: Understanding and following safety procedures to prevent accidents.
  • Reliability: Showing up on time and ready to work is essential in this field.
  • Communication: Being able to follow instructions and coordinate with a team.

These skills will help you start strong and build a lasting career in construction.

Why a career in Construction could be right for you

If you are looking for a profession where you can start quickly, learn valuable skills, and grow into leadership roles, construction is a great fit. 

Many workers start without formal training and, over time, become highly skilled tradespeople or managers.

Construction offers a clear career path where effort is rewarded. Workers who show dedication and a willingness to learn can specialize in areas like welding, electrical systems, or heavy machinery operation. 

Some even start their own contracting businesses after gaining experience.

The pride of building something that lasts—whether it’s a family home, a new school, or a major highway—adds a unique sense of satisfaction to construction jobs. 

If you value teamwork, physical activity, and steady pay, this industry offers plenty of opportunities to succeed.

Quick guide: How to apply for opportunities in Construction

Getting started in construction is often easier than in other fields. Here’s how you can apply:

  • Research Local Companies: Look for construction firms in your area hiring laborers or apprentices.
  • Check Job Boards: Websites like Indeed, ZipRecruiter, and local classifieds often list construction openings.
  • Visit Union Offices: Some unions offer training programs and direct job placement.
  • Prepare a Simple Resume: Highlight your willingness to work, physical stamina, and any previous labor experience.
  • Apply In Person: Many construction companies accept walk-in applications directly at their office or job site.
  • Take Safety Certifications: Courses like OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 can make your application stand out.

With determination, you can quickly land your first role and begin building your future.

Looking for more? Check out Restaurant and Fast Food job opportunities next

Construction jobs aren’t the only path to a steady income. 

If you’re interested in other industries, don’t miss our next guide on Restaurant and Fast Food job opportunities, where we explore flexible work options and fast-track careers in the food service industry.

Restaurant and Fast Food Jobs

Restaurant and Fast Food Job Openings

Discover Restaurant and Fast Food jobs with hourly wages starting at $10 and plenty of room to grow your career!