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Construction Trades Helpers and Labourers
What they do?
Construction trades helpers and labourers perform some or all of the following duties:
A. Level earth to fine grade specifications using rake and shovel
B. Assist in demolishing buildings using prying bars and other tools, and sort, clean and pile salvaged materials
C. Remove rubble and other debris at construction sites using rakes, shovels, wheelbarrows and other equipment
D. Operate pneumatic hammers, vibrators and tampers as directed
E. Tend or feed machines or equipment used in construction such as mixers, compressors and pumps
F. Clean up chemical spills and other contaminants, and remove asbestos and other hazardous materials
G. Oil and grease hoists and similar equipment
Where they find work?
1. Construction - 81.0%
2. Non-metallic mineral product manufacturing - 2.0%
3. Transportation and warehousing - 2.0%
4. Public administration - 2.0%
5. Administrative and support waste management and remediation services - 2.0%
6. Wood product manufacturing - 1.0%
7. Wholesale trade - 1.0%
What education do I need?
1. Some experience as a general construction labourer may be required for construction trade helpers.
2. Some pipeline workers, such as stabbers, mandrel operators and pre-heater tenders, usually require one season of experience in oil and gas pipeline construction.
3. Flagmen/women may require a traffic control certificate.
4. Almost 2 in 5 either have a community college diploma or an undergraduate university degree.
High School Subject that will help:
1. Math
2. English
3. Physical Education
4. Industrial Arts
What can you expect to make:
The average hourly wages for Construction Trades Helpers and Labourers is $15.17/HR, which is below average for occupations in the trades, transport and equipment operators sector and above average for all labouring and elemental occupations. These wages grew at an average rate from 2002 to 2004.
Average Wage
Expected Wage by Age
Unemployment:
20% of Construction Trades Helpers and Labourers are unemployed. This rate is above the average for labouring and elemental occupations.
Unemployment
Trends in Unemployment
Current Job Outlook:
The job outlook for Construction Trades Helpers and Labourers is considered Below Average because:
1. Employment grew at an average rate.
2. Hourly wages ($15.17) are below the average ($18.07), and the rate of the wage growth is close to the average.
3. The unemployment rate (20%) is above the 2004 average (7%).
Future Job Prospects:
Your job outlook will continue to be Below Average because:
1. The employment growth rate will likely continue to be below average because new technologies should continue to improve productivity, allowing employers to do more with fewer workers and the need for more specialized workers.
2. The retirement rate will likely be below average, and the number of retiring workers should not contribute significantly to job openings.
3. The number of job seekers will likely exceed the number of job openings.
Highest Concetration:
The highest concentrations are found in Alberta and Prince Edward Island while the lowest concentrations are in New Brunswick and Newfoundland.
Unionization Rate:
The unionization rate (29%) is close to the average (32%) for all occupations.
Useful Experience:
1. Taking directions
2. Physical/outdoor work
3. Team environment
Part Time Workers
Part time workers:
9% of Construction Trades Helpers and Labourers are employed only on a part-time basis. There were 92,600 workers employed in these occupations in 2004, an increase of 1% since 1997.
Age Demographics
Age Demographics:
The relatively high percentage of younger workers suggests more entry-level positions and jobs that may serve as stepping stones in a career. The younger-than-average age (32) of worker will likely result in a below-average retirement rate to 2009.
