This post provides exhaustive information on the job description of a construction general worker, to help you learn what they do, as well as templates employers can use.
It highlights the key tasks, duties, and responsibilities that commonly define the work description of a construction general worker.
It also presents the major requirements most employers/recruiters will want individuals seeking the construction general worker job to meet to be hired.
What Does a Construction General Worker Do?
A construction general worker is responsible for carrying out a wide range of activities at construction sites.
The construction general worker job description entails preparing the construction area, gathering and delivering materials, utilizing machines and tools, erecting temporary structures such as scaffolds, providing assistance to specialized workers, and cleaning up the construction site when the job is ready.
In other words, a construction general worker refers to one whose duty is to take up a variety of supporting tasks on construction sites.
He/she executes important functions in construction projects such as highways, buildings, or other structures, as well as transporting materials and equipment.
One of the core tasks of a construction general worker is to handle the maintenance of the work site by ensuring that the construction site is kept clean and tidy by taking out debris and trash.
He/she must ensure that the construction area is following necessary and relevant health and safety regulations and also ensure that harmful tools are kept out of the way to avoid accidents.
Construction general workers may also be required to assist with demolition which involves providing assistance with demolition on the construction site and taking out debris after the demolition has taken place.
They must also assist with machine maintenance by repairing and maintaining machinery and equipment that are used on the construction site to keep it working at all times.
A construction general worker also must operate a variety of machines and equipment that are used for construction processes such as torches and jackhammers, as well as helping to transport explosives applying hydraulic machines; the explosives are used to dig out tunnels.
A construction general worker is also saddled with the responsibility of assisting his/her colleagues in the process of loading and unloading materials and equipment at the construction site, and also ensuring that the appropriate materials are available to be used.
If you are seeking to work in the construction general worker role, some of the qualities and skills you may be expected to have by recruiters/employers include good math skills, excellent teamwork, and interpersonal skills; good mechanical skills, color vision, and physical stamina; physical strength, well-developed verbal and written communication skills, and excellent time management skills.
In terms of academic qualifications, the job role/position of a construction general worker does not typically require formal education; however, an ideal candidate should possess at least a High School Diploma.
Construction General Worker Salary: The average salary for a construction general worker, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics is $36,000 annually.
Construction General Worker Job Description Example/Sample/Template
Construction general workers perform the responsibilities:
- Removing hazardous and/or obsolete materials from worksites
- Working collaboratively and liaising with other professionals that are involved in construction projects, such as carpenters, painters, and/or other tradespeople
- Utilizing power tools and machinery such as forklifts and torches when required
- Assisting with the loading and unloading of materials to be used in construction processes
- Performing preparatory duties to start construction projects, such as backfilling holes, digging trenches, and compacting earth
- Assisting with the building and demolishing of bracing, scaffolding, and temporary structures
- Working in strict compliance with plans and instructions from supervisors or more experienced workers
- Overseeing the operating and maintenance of equipment and machines used in construction.
Construction General Worker Requirements – Abilities, Knowledge, and Skills for Career Success
If you are seeking the construction general worker role, here are major requirements most recruiters/employers may want you to satisfy to be hired:
- Color vision, since a construction general worker may be required to distinguish different colors of wire to help the lead electrician
- Good math skills, since a construction general worker must be able to perform basic math calculations while measuring on construction sites or assisting a surveying crew
- Strong mechanical skills, since he/she may be frequently required to operate and maintain equipment, such as jackhammers
- Strong interpersonal and teamwork skills that enable him/her to work cooperatively and effectively with other construction workers and laborers
- Physical stamina, since a construction general worker must possess the endurance to carry out strenuous tasks throughout the day
- Several years of professional and proven-work experience
- At least a High School Diploma, though formal education is not necessarily required.
Construction General Worker Job Description Templates
Here are construction general worker job description templates employers can simply edit and use in their job postings to attract the best talents to their companies:
TEMPLATE 1.
Position Title: Construction General Worker
Reports To: Site Supervisor / Foreman / Project Manager
Location: [Your Company Location or Job Site]
Employment Type: Full-Time or Part-Time
Company Overview
[Your Company Name] is a reputable construction company specializing in [residential, commercial, industrial, or civil] projects. We are committed to delivering safe, efficient, and high-quality construction services. Our team values reliability, strong work ethic, and professional growth opportunities for all employees.
Position Overview
We are seeking a hardworking, reliable, and safety-conscious Construction General Worker to assist with a wide range of tasks on active construction sites. This role supports skilled tradespeople, maintains a clean and organized job site, handles materials, and performs basic construction duties to ensure smooth project operations.
The ideal candidate is physically fit, eager to learn, and able to work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
Key Responsibilities
General Labor & Site Support
- Perform basic construction tasks such as digging, lifting, carrying, and moving materials.
- Assist carpenters, electricians, plumbers, masons, and other skilled workers.
- Load and unload tools, equipment, and building materials.
Site Preparation & Cleanup
- Prepare job sites by removing debris, setting up work areas, and organizing supplies.
- Clean up construction areas, sweep surfaces, and dispose of waste properly.
- Erect temporary structures such as barricades and safety signage when required.
Equipment & Tool Handling
- Operate hand tools and basic power tools under supervision.
- Maintain tools and report damages or malfunctions to supervisors.
- Assist in operating small machinery (e.g., compactors, forklifts) if trained or certified.
Assisting with Construction Tasks
- Mix, pour, and spread construction materials such as concrete or mortar.
- Assist with demolition work, including removing fixtures, walls, or flooring.
- Measure, cut, and prepare materials as directed by supervisors.
Safety Compliance
- Follow all safety procedures, wear PPE, and adhere to OSHA guidelines.
- Report hazards, unsafe practices, and incidents immediately.
- Support site supervisors in enforcing safety protocols.
Teamwork & Communication
- Collaborate with crew members to complete tasks efficiently.
- Communicate clearly with supervisors and follow instructions accurately.
- Support team efforts to meet project schedules and objectives.
Skills & Qualifications
- Previous construction or general labor experience preferred but not required.
- Ability to perform physically demanding tasks including lifting 50+ lbs., standing, and bending for long periods.
- Strong work ethic, reliability, and positive attitude.
- Willingness to learn and follow instructions.
- Basic knowledge of construction tools and safety practices is a plus.
- Good communication and teamwork skills.
- Valid driver’s license may be required based on job location.
Education & Experience Requirements
- High school diploma or GED preferred, not required.
- On-the-job training provided for entry-level applicants.
- Certifications such as OSHA 10 are a plus but not mandatory.
Eligibility to Work in the United States
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without requiring employer-sponsored work authorization now or in the future.
Work Environment
- Outdoor construction sites with exposure to weather conditions, dust, noise, and heavy equipment.
- Frequent lifting, bending, walking, climbing, and manual labor.
- Work schedules may include early mornings, overtime, weekends, or extended shifts depending on project needs.
Equal Opportunity Statement
[Your Company Name] is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any protected category.
Additional Information
- This job description outlines core duties but may include other responsibilities as needed.
- Responsibilities may vary depending on the project type and company requirements.
- Reasonable accommodations may be made for qualified individuals with disabilities.
- Pre-employment background checks or drug screenings may be required.
How to Apply
Please submit your resume or application to [Insert Application Email or Job Link].
TEMPLATE 2.
Location: [City, State]
Employment Type: Full-Time or Part-Time
About Us
[Your Company Name] is a construction company specializing in [residential/commercial/industrial/civil] projects. We are seeking a dependable Construction General Worker to support daily job site operations.
Job Summary
The Construction General Worker assists with basic construction tasks, site preparation, cleanup, material handling, and supporting skilled trades. This role is essential for maintaining a safe, clean, and efficient job site.
Key Responsibilities
- Load, unload, and move materials and equipment
- Assist carpenters, electricians, plumbers, and other trades
- Clean and prepare job sites; remove debris and set up work areas
- Operate hand tools and basic power tools under supervision
- Support demolition, concrete work, and other labor tasks
- Follow all safety procedures and wear required PPE
Qualifications
- Construction or labor experience preferred but not required
- Ability to lift 50+ lbs. and perform physical labor
- Strong work ethic, reliability, and willingness to learn
- Basic knowledge of tools and safety practices is a plus
- Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions
Eligibility to Work in the U.S.
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
How to Apply
Submit your resume to [Insert Email or Application Link].
Construction General Worker Job Description for Resume
If you are writing a new resume or CV as someone who has worked before or are presently working in the position of a construction general worker, you should include the professional experience section in the resume/CV.
With the professional or work experience part of your resume/CV, you can effectively inform the recruiter/employer that you have been successful performing the duties and responsibilities of a construction general worker.
This information can increase your chances of getting an interview with the recruiter/employer, especially if the new job that you are seeking requires having some work experience as a construction general worker to be effective in it.
You can make a detailed and compelling professional experience section for your resume/CV by applying the construction general worker job description example provided above.
(Learn how to make an effective resume applying the Employer-focused Resume Writing Technique)
Conclusion
This post is valuable to individuals interested in becoming a construction general worker.
They will be able to increase their knowledge of the duties and responsibilities typically performed by construction general workers.
It is also helpful to recruiters/employers looking to find and hire capable individuals for the construction general worker role in their companies.
They can apply any of the construction general worker job description templates above in making a detailed description for the vacant position in their organizations.
