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Word Meanings
What do labourers do?
Labourers work on construction sites. They move materials and equipment. They take down buildings. They clean up construction sites.
Meet a labourer
Brad is a labourer. He works for a construction company. He usually works on large buildings. He also helps to build roads, bridges, tunnels, pipelines and other things.
Here are things that Brad does:
- He moves tools and materials from place to place.
- He loads and unloads trucks.
- He looks at drawings to see what to do.
- He uses hand tools. For example, shovels and rakes. He digs trenches and makes sure pipes are straight.
- He helps to mix, pour and spread cement.
- He uses power tools. For example, an electric drill.
- He builds things that help other workers at construction sites. For example, ramps and scaffolding. Construction workers stand on scaffolding when they work in high places. Scaffolding is often made of wood and metal.
- He measures and cuts metal and glass. He uses special equipment for this. For example, a riveter or a glass cutter.
- He installs and repairs roofs.
- He helps to demolish buildings. He salvages materials from demolished buildings.
- He picks up garbage at the construction site.
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Strength Required Lift over 20 kg
What is a labourer’s work like?
Brad usually works an 8-hour shift. Sometimes the company is very busy. Then he has to work extra hours. He often doesn’t work in the winter.
Brad walks, bends and climbs a lot while he works. He likes working outside. He works outside in good and bad weather.
Safety is important on a construction site. Brad has to follow safety rules. For example, he must wear a hard hat, safety glasses, gloves and steel-toed boots.
Brad often has to lift things that weigh over 25 kilograms (over 55 pounds). For example, lumber and bags of cement.
Brad is part of a construction team. For example, he works with carpenters, electricians and plumbers. He also works with other labourers.
Do you want to be a labourer?
- You need to be healthy and strong.
- You have to be good at working with your hands.
- You must like to use hand tools and power tools.
- You should like doing physical work and working outside.
- You need to be careful. You have to pay attention to safety.
- You have to be able to work with a team.
What education do labourers need?
Labourers usually learn on the job. They don’t need a high school diploma. Employers like workers with experience.
Labourers can get a certificate. It is called an Alberta Occupational Certificate. They have to do an apprenticeship. They work as an apprentice for 12 months.
Labourers who aren’t apprentices can apply for the same certificate after they have 18 months of experience.
What can labourers do in the future?
Labourers can work for many kinds of construction companies. For example, companies that build houses or construct roads and tunnels.
Some labourers with experience may become supervisors or forepersons.
How much does a labourer make?
As of June 26, 2019, the minimum wage in Alberta is $15.00 per hour for most workers. For more information, see Minimum Wage.
Other jobs to think about
You can ask your career advisor or tutor about other jobs that are like labourer.
Do you want more information?
Do you want more information? You can ask your career advisor or tutor for help.
You will see some red words on this page. Click or tap these words to learn what they mean. Or visit the Easy Reading Dictionary.
Updated Oct 15, 2024. The information contained in this profile is current as of the date shown.