Helpers, Construction Trades
Construction trades helpers provide essential support to skilled craftspeople across various building specializations, including masonry, carpentry, electrical, plumbing, roofing, and painting work. These professionals assist by preparing materials, maintaining tools and equipment, cleaning work areas, and performing basic tasks that require less specialized training. They work on residential, commercial, and industrial construction sites, helping ensure projects run smoothly and safely.
π¬Career Video
π€AI Resilience Assessment
AI Resilience Score
Score 3/6: low AI task exposure, declining job demand means AI will assist but humans remain essential
How we calculated this:
0% of tasks can be accelerated by AI
-11% projected (2024-2034)
EPOCH score: 13/25
πKey Responsibilities
- β’Mix mortar, plaster, and grout, manually or using machines, according to standard formulas.
- β’Erect scaffolding or other installation structures.
- β’Cut materials to specified sizes for installation, using power saws or tile cutters.
- β’Modify material moving, mixing, grouting, grinding, polishing, or cleaning procedures, according to installation or material requirements.
- β’Transport materials, tools, or machines to installation sites, manually or using conveyance equipment.
- β’Provide assistance in the preparation, installation, repair, or rebuilding of tile, brick, or stone surfaces.
- β’Locate and supply materials to masons for installation, following drawings or numbered sequences.
- β’Arrange or store materials, machines, tools, or equipment.
π‘Inside This Career
Construction trade helpers begin their days by gathering tools, materials, and safety equipment needed for the project at hand. Whether supporting electricians threading wire through commercial buildings, assisting carpenters framing residential homes, or helping roofers install shingles on steep slopes, these professionals spend much of their time moving, staging, and preparing materials. They mix compounds, cut materials to specification, and set up scaffolding or ladders. Physical strength and stamina are essential as they carry heavy supplies, operate hand tools and basic equipment, and maintain clean, organized work sites throughout the day.
The collaborative nature of construction means helpers work closely with skilled tradespeople, learning techniques while ensuring projects stay on schedule. They might spend morning hours helping plumbers fit pipes in tight crawl spaces, then transition to outdoor work assisting masons laying brick facades. Safety remains paramount as they navigate active construction sites, coordinate with multiple trade crews, and adapt to changing weather conditions. Communication is constantβreceiving instructions, asking questions, and coordinating material needs with supervisors.
Each day brings variety as helpers encounter different project phases and challenges. One day might involve demolition work alongside renovation crews, while another focuses on precision tasks like helping tile setters achieve perfect layouts in bathroom installations. The hands-on nature of the work provides direct exposure to trade skills, from observing proper tool techniques to understanding material properties. Helpers frequently troubleshoot minor issues independently while knowing when to seek guidance from experienced tradespeople, making their role both supportive and educational.
πCareer Progression
What does this mean?
This shows how earnings typically grow with experience. Entry level represents starting salaries, while Expert shows top earners (90th percentile). Most workers reach mid-career earnings within 5-10 years. Figures are national averages and vary by location and employer.
πEducation & Training
Requirements
- β’Entry Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- β’Experience: Some experience helpful
- β’On-the-job Training: Few months to one year
Time & Cost
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Find jobs and training programs for helpers, construction trades- Median salary: $39K/year
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π»Technology Skills
βKey Abilities
π·οΈAlso Known As
πSpecializations
This career includes 7 specialized roles with different focuses and compensation levels.
| Specialization | Median Pay | AI Outlook | O*NET Code | Find Jobs | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $42,470 | π‘ | 47-3011.00 | View details | ||
| $40,220 | π | 47-3019.00 | View details | ||
| $39,380 | π‘ | 47-3012.00 | View details | ||
| $38,620 | π’ | 47-3016.00 | View details | ||
| $38,340 | π‘ | 47-3013.00 | View details |
πRelated Careers
Other careers in construction
πData Sources
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