Construction Worker Job Description: Duties & Template

A good construction worker isn’t just someone who gets the job done. Whether they’re an apprentice or a seasoned tradesperson, construction workers should have the skills to keep your jobsite productive without compromising safety.

Looking to hire a reliable team member? Step one is writing a construction worker job description that lays out the role’s duties, skill requirements, and expectations.

In this guide, we’ll provide job description templates for four different types of construction workers, as well as a deeper look at construction job duties and responsibilities.

TL;DR: Construction worker job description

Here’s a quick look at what to include in a job description for construction workers:

• Key responsibilities and duties: Loading and unloading materials and equipment, site preparation and cleanup, assisting tradesworkers, maintaining a clean site, and operating machinery.
• Required skills and qualifications: Physical stamina, experience with construction tools, teamwork, instruction-following, basic math, and reliable transportation.
• Physical requirements: Extended periods of standing, bending, and lifting up to 50lbs.
• Safety expectations: PPE requirements, OSHA compliance, equipment safety standards.
• Schedule and work environment: Variable weather and long or late hours.
• Compensation note: Hourly rate, union/non-union, other benefits.

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Construction worker job description and template

Here’s a template to get you started with construction worker job description writing:

Job Summary
We are seeking a dependable construction worker to support daily operations on [type of project/job site]. This role involves intensive hands-on labor and teamwork to stay on schedule while keeping job sites safe.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with site prep and cleanup
• Assemble and dismantle temporary structures like barricades and scaffolding
• Load, unload, and organize materials and equipment
• Support [specific trades or crews] as needed
• Operate basic tools and machinery under supervision of [supervisor title]
• [Specifics regarding concrete work, drilling and digging, or pipe work]
• Maintain a clean and organized job site
• Follow health and safety regulations, reporting hazards to supervisors
• Collaborate with a team of [size] to meet deadlines
• Perform physical labor

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Stamina for ongoing physical labor
• Experience in safely operating construction tools and equipment
• Reliability and strong work ethic
• Communication and collaboration
• Ability to follow instructions
• Reliable transportation
• Basic mathematical skills
• [Preferred years of experience on site]
• [Training or licensing requirements]

Physical Requirements

• Lift up to [weight]
• Stand, walk, and bend for extended periods
• Work outdoors in seasonal conditions

Safety Expectations

• Follow all safety procedures as per OSHA
• Consistently and correctly use PPE
• Report hazards or unsafe conditions

Schedule and Work Environment

• [Full-time/part-time], [day shift/night shift]
• [Indoor/outdoor] job sites
• Overtime [as needed/seasonal]

Compensation
[Hourly range], [union/non-union], with [benefits]

What is the job description of a construction worker?

A construction worker supports the core day-to-day work that keeps work on a jobsite moving forward. Their work is hands-on and highly physical, with tasks that change as the project progresses. As people build experience, they can move from entry-level general labor roles into project management or specialist jobs.

The typical duties of a construction worker include:

• Preparing and cleaning job sites
• Loading, unloading, and organizing materials
• Assisting carpenters, electricians, and other trades
• Operating basic tools and equipment in a team setting
• Following all safety procedures and site rules

Construction workers are what hold a crew together, keeping projects safe and on schedule as specialists focus on their trades.

Construction worker duties and responsibilities

Laying out construction job responsibilities is a key part of the job design process. An accurate, detailed image of daily operations sets clear expectations, attracting candidates who are ready to perform the duties required.

General construction duties

Construction workers are responsible for a wide range of basic but essential tasks that keep projects in motion. By participating in site preparation, maintenance, organization, and cleanup, construction workers assist skilled trades by keeping work flowing efficiently.

General construction job duties throughout the day might include:

• Preparing jobsites
• Assembling temporary structures
• Unloading materials, tools, and heavy machinery
• Setting up signs and managing traffic
• Digging holes and tunnels
• Operating tools for specific tasks
• Mixing, pouring, and leveling concrete
• Removing garbage and debris from the site
• Disassembling and cleaning the site

Tool and equipment use

Most construction workers regularly use basic hand tools, and are given responsibility over power tools and heavy equipment as they gain experience. This work is typically supervised, especially when it comes to new hires who are still learning safety standards.

The extent of equipment usage really depends on the needs of the job and capabilities of the workers. Certification from American Concrete Institute or Crane Operator Certification greatly benefits construction workers and gives them more diverse career opportunities.

Safety and compliance

Construction is one of the highest-risk industries for workplace injuries, with 1 in 5 fatal injuries reported in construction sites. One of the most important duties of a construction worker is practicing appropriate safety protocols, no matter the job.

This is managed by:

• Maintaining a clean job site: Clear walkways, organized materials, and remove hazardous debris to eliminate the risk of many preventable injuries.
• Following scaffolding requirements: In 2023, 38% of fatalities in the construction industry were due to falls, slips, and trips. Guardrails might take extra time to put up, but they aren’t optional construction responsibilities.
• Using personal protective equipment (PPE): Wearing gear like hard hats, gloves, and eye protection can literally save lives and limbs.
• Reporting hazards: Construction workers need to have the confidence to go to their supervisors or OSHA officers about unsafe conditions.

Construction worker job requirements and skills

Writing a job post that works for a construction role means being clear about the core job requirements. When skills and expectations are aligned, you save time, reduce risk of injuries, and improve morale for your crew.

Required skills

Construction jobs range from entry to expert level, but there are a few skills that are relevant regardless of experience:

• Physical stamina for long periods of standing, heavy lifting, repetitive motions, and bending.
• Reliability. Showing up on time and consistently performing well builds trust with the team and keeps projects on track. Using time clock apps can help flag attendance issues so you can address them before they escalate.
• Ability to follow instructions. Imagine ending a long, hot day of work by having to do it all over again. Doing things right the first time, or feeling comfortable asking clarifying questions, saves time and prevents safety issues.
• Clear communication with supervisors and teammates keeps mistakes from snowballing, and helps manage conflict as it arises.

Preferred qualifications

While entry-level workers can be trained, some familiarity with jobsite expectations, tools, and safety practices shortens the learning curve. If your project has a tight completion deadline, it’s best to hire a crew with previous construction experience.

Some useful bonus certifications could include:

• OSHA 10 or OSHA 30
• Forklift certification
• First Aid and CPR
• Scissor lift or aerial lift certification
• Confined space training

Physical and schedule requirements

Construction job responsibilities require regular lifting and long windows of standing—and unless conditions are detrimental to the job, the work continues rain or shine.

Employee scheduling also doesn’t follow the typical 9 to 5, and prospective team members need to know about:

• Shift times
• Average length of shifts
• Weekend and holiday requirements
• Overtime

Being clear about these requirements in your construction worker job description helps attract candidates who are ready for the lifestyle that comes with the field.

Construction worker job description for resume

Having a construction worker job description for resume screening on hand helps you pick out green flags in a candidate’s work history.

Keep an eye out for specifics about:

• Hands-on experience: What types of tools, construction projects, and work environments do they have experience with? How long have they been in the trade?
• Safety awareness: What safety training have they completed? Do they mention specific PPE use or records of being accident-free?
• Reliability and teamwork: Does their resume highlight collaboration or leadership? How long have they stayed with past employers?
• Jobsite accomplishments: What additional responsibilities stand out? Is there mention of how they’ve contributed to worksite efficiency?.

Just because someone isn’t an expert resume writer doesn’t mean they aren’t right for the job. If you see that the crucial hard skills are on the resume, use appropriate interview questions to suss out their fit for your crew.

Resume summary example:
Reliable construction worker with 3 years of hands-on experience supporting residential and commercial projects. Skilled with basic tools and equipment, and knowledgeable about jobsite safety requirements. Known for strong work ethic and commitment to teamwork. Currently pursuing Safety and Health Fundamentals Certificate.

Construction worker job description (by role type)

Looking for something more specific? Here are three construction worker job description examples for common roles in the field:

General construction worker or general laborer

Job Summary

We are seeking a reliable general construction worker to support daily operations on commercial job sites. This role requires hands-on teamwork to keep worksites moving safely and efficiently.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and clean job sites throughout the workday
• Assemble and dismantle temporary structures
• Load, unload, and move materials and equipment
• Assist multiple trades with basic tasks
• Safely operate basic machinery under supervision
• Maintain an organized work area
• Follow all health and safety regulations
• Perform ongoing physical labor

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Physical stamina for lifting and standing
• Reliability and consistent attendance
• Ability to follow instructions
• Prior construction or labor experience preferred, not required
• Tolerance for shifting weather conditions

Work Environment and Schedule

• Full-time hours with overtime as needed
• Outdoor job sites in varying weather
• 6am-2pm with occasional weekends

Compensation

• $30/hour, union
• Healthcare benefits (including dental and drug)

Construction helper job description

Job Summary

We are hiring a construction helper to provide direct support to medium-sized crews on active job sites. This entry-level role is ideal for individuals looking to learn the trade and gain hands-on experience in the field.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with site preparation and cleanup
• Load and unload materials and equipment
• Assist skilled workers with daily tasks (mixing concrete, paving and raking asphalt, levelling earth, etc.)
• Direct traffic at or around construction sites
• Remove rubble and debris
• Follow all health and safety regulations
• Follow detailed instructions from supervisors
• Perform ongoing physical labor

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Willingness to learn and take direction
• Strong work ethic and reliability
• Basic tool familiarity a plus
• Reliable transportation and punctuality
• Physical stamina
• No experience required, will train

Work Environment and Schedule

• Four-day week (4x10)
• Fast-paced, physically demanding indoor and outdoor job sites

Compensation

• $20/hour
• Training provided with growth opportunities

Residential construction worker job description

Job Summary

We are seeking a residential construction worker to assist with building and remodeling projects on single- and multi-family residential job sites. This role supports small crews working in customer-facing environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare job sites and clean throughout the day
• Load, organize, and stage materials
• Support skilled trades throughout projects
• Assist with framing, drywall, and finish work
• Assist with roof work
• Maintain clean and orderly job sites
• Follow all health and safety regulations
• Consistently meet quality standards
• Perform ongoing physical labor
• Exhibit professionalism in front of residents

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Physical stamina
• Residential construction experience preferred
• Ability to work carefully in occupied areas
• Strong attention to detail
• Basic tool and safety knowledge
• Comfort with heights

Work Environment and Schedule

• Full-time
• Daytime hours on residential job sites
• Outdoor work, weather-dependent

Compensation

• $25/hour, non-union
• Healthcare benefits

FAQs about construction worker roles

What is the difference between construction job duties vs. responsibilities?

The difference between construction job duties and responsibilities are about tasks versus expectations. Duties refer to specific tasks like preparing job sites or using basic tools. Responsibilities apply to broader expectations like meeting safety standards and following instructions.

What are the job duties and responsibilities of a construction worker?

The job duties and responsibilities of a construction worker are about working efficiently and safely on job sites. Practical construction job duties involve site preparation and cleaning, handling materials, and assisting skilled trades. Completing these duties requires responsibilities like teamwork, organization, and following directions.

What is a description of a construction worker?

A description of a construction worker would be someone who participates in construction projects through teamwork and physical labor. Construction workers consistently adapt to the needs of the project to make sure work is completed safely and efficiently.

What skills does a construction worker need?

A construction worker needs skills like physical stamina, the ability to follow instructions, and reliability. While basic tool knowledge and past labor experience are valuable, many of the hard skills can be trained as long as the construction worker is willing to learn.

Is construction work physically demanding?

Yes, construction work is very physically demanding. It requires long hours standing, lifting, and bending, often in changing outdoor conditions.

Building your team starts with your construction worker job description

When it comes to hiring, expectations are everything. Boosting job posts that clearly lay out construction job responsibilities, duties, and requirements gets your crew on the same page from day one. That means sticking to timelines and keeping your team rock solid.

But laying foundations should be a matter of concrete, not spreadsheets. Don’t get stuck behind the desk calculating hours and overtime pay—instead, try our all-in-one mobile app to streamline everything from scheduling to time sheets to payroll.

Reach out to discover how Homebase can make time tracking as efficient as your job sites.

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