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Construction Trades Helper/ Labourer
Career Pathway
Construction Trades
Helper/Labourer
Also known as:
Construction Helper;
Construction Labourer;
Carpenter Helper; Construction
Craft Worker
Salary range:
Average: $21.00/hour
JOB DESCRIPTION
Construction Trades Helpers and Labourers assist skilled
tradespersons such as carpenters, bricklayers, cement finishers,
heavy equipment operators, roofers and glaziers at construction
and project sites. They assist with site preparation and cleanup,
setting up and removing equipment. They play a critical role to
renewable energy projects by providing essential support and
ensuring efficient site operations.
Range: $15.60 – $40.00/hour
Source: Government of Canada Job Bank
Work type:
Full-time; shift work; rotational work
Work environment:
Construction Trades Helpers and
Labourers work on a diverse range
of job sites and often get to see a
project evolve to final completion
giving workers a strong sense of
accomplishment and pride in their
contributions. They work alongside
and learn from experienced trades
workers, enabling ongoing learning
and skill development.
GENERAL JOB TASKS
Load and unload construction materials, and move materials
to work areas.
Erect and dismantle concrete forms, scaffolding, ramps,
catwalks, shoring and barricades required at construction
sites.
Mix, pour and spread materials such as concrete and asphalt.
Handle materials and equipment, and perform demolition,
excavation and compaction activities.
Guide operators as they move equipment, secure special
attachments to equipment and direct traffic.
Assist in lining up pipes.
Use laser level to grade the earth.
Remove rubble and waste at construction sites.
Oil and grease equipment.
TRAINING
There is currently no Pre-Employment Training Program or Apprenticeship Training Program for
Construction Trades Helper/Labourer in Newfoundland and Labrador. Individuals can often enter the
occupation with no related experience or educational requirements and will normally develop skills
through on-the-job training and experience. It is beneficial for those interested in this occupation to
increase employability by completing the required Training and Certifications listed below.
To become a Red Seal Construction Craft Worker (Construction Trades Helper/Labourer) an individual
can compete the certification examination to be granted a Certificate of Qualification (Red Seal). A
Certificate of Qualification is not compulsory in Newfoundland and Labrador to work as Construction
Trades Helper/Labourer,
To achieve Certificate of Qualification, individuals can purse a Trade Qualifier Pathway:
Trade Qualifier
Individuals who meet the jurisdictional requirements and have at least one and a half (1.5) times the work
experience of an apprenticeship term for a designated trade can have their work skills and hours verified by a
certified journeyperson and may be eligible to write the certification examination as a Trade Qualifier.
ESSENTIAL SKILLS
Time management skills
Problem-solving skills
Communication skills
Working with others
Manual dexterity
Attention to detail
Physical strength
Occupational Health and Safety
OTHER REQUIRED TRAINING/CERTIFICATIONS
WHMIS (Workplace Hazardous Materials Information
System) Certification
Class O5 Drivers Licence
H2S Alive and Awareness
Standard First Aid
Occupational Health & Safety
Forklift Certification
Site-specific safety and training certifications.
Note these may be covered by employer.
CAREER PROGRESSION
With experience, additional training, and
certifications, Construction Trades Helpers
and Labourers can advance to more
specialized roles within the industry, often
providing better pay and job security. They can
also move into supervisory roles, overseeing
teams or start their own business.
USEFUL RESOURCES:
Apprenticeship & Trades Certification Division
Government of Canada – Career Planning
Red Seal Program
Labour Market Information