Construction Laborer salary

The median pay for a construction laborer nationally is $22.65 an hour — about $47,120 a year full time. That figure comes from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics for U.S. (2025). Half of the roles pay more than this and half pay less, so treat it as the middle of the market rather than a target.

Most construction laborers nationally earn between $16.87 an hour and $37.54 an hour — that is the 10th to the 90th percentile. The spread usually reflects experience, shift, certifications and employer size more than anything else.

Pay at the bottom of the range — roughly what someone starting out can expect — is around $16.87 an hour. A quarter of construction laborers earn below $18.57 an hour, so the first year or two typically sits in that band. This is a role employers routinely fill with people who have no prior experience.

The top 10% of construction laborers nationally earn about $37.54 an hour or more, roughly 1.7× the median. Getting there usually means experience plus something specific — certifications, supervisory duties, specialised skills or premium shifts.

Construction labourers do the physical groundwork on building sites — site prep, material handling and supporting the skilled trades. It is the most common entry point into construction. Day to day, that means prepare and clear sites, move materials and operate small equipment, assist skilled tradespeople and erect and dismantle scaffolding.

The usual route is: (1) apply directly — commonly hired with no experience, (2) obtain OSHA safety certification, (3) learn from the trades you support, (4) enter an apprenticeship in a trade that interests you. Employers typically look for no formal education required, OSHA 10 or 30 certification often required and ability to work outdoors in all weather.

Usually not. Most employers hire construction laborers without a specific licence, though OSHA 10 or 30 certification often required will widen your options and often your pay.

There are currently 4 open construction laborers listed on LocalWork. Follows construction activity and is the standard route into the skilled trades for people without qualifications.