Employment Readiness
Construction Jobs: 4 Common Myths That Could Be Holding You Back
Think you need years of experience to get a construction job? Or that construction work is only for people who already know a skilled trade?
That isn't always true.
There are many different types of construction jobs, including entry-level positions where you can learn while you work. If you're looking for steady work, temporary assignments, or a chance to build new skills, construction could be worth considering.
Here are four common myths about construction jobs.
Myth #1: You Need Construction Experience to Get Hired
The truth: Some entry-level construction jobs are entry-level.
You don’t have to know how to operate heavy equipment or have years of construction experience to get started.
Construction laborers or general laborers may help clean job sites, move materials, load and unload supplies, prepare work areas or assist more experienced workers.
Many laborers learn their jobs while working. What employers often want to see is that you can:
- Show up on time
- Follow directions
- Work safely
- Handle physical work
- Work well with a team
- Be dependable
Having experience can help, but don't automatically count yourself out because you're new to construction.
Myth #2: You Need a College Degree
The truth: Many construction jobs don’t require one.
You usually don’t need a college degree to become a construction laborer. Some skilled construction jobs require additional training, certifications, or apprenticeships. But general labor or helper positions can be a good place to start if you’re new to the industry.
You can learn skills on the job and gain experience that may help you qualify for other opportunities later.
Myth #3: Construction Jobs Are Only for Men
The truth: Construction jobs are for anyone who can safely do the work.
Construction has traditionally been a male-dominated industry, but women work in construction too.
What matters is whether you can meet the job requirements, follow safety rules, and get the work done.
Different construction jobs also require different skills. Some involved heavy lifting, while others may focus on cleanup, traffic control, materials, equipment, or assisting skilled tradespeople.
Myth #4: Construction Is a Dead-End Job
The truth: Construction can help you build valuable skills.
An entry-level construction job doesn’t have to be your last job.
You may start by cleaning a job site, moving materials, or assisting a crew. As you gain experience, you can learn more skills and explore other types of work.
Construction includes jobs such as:
- General laborer
- Carpenter helper
- Flagger
- Concrete laborer
- Equipment operator
- Painter
- Welder
- Skilled trades
The experience you gain one assignment can help you prepare for the next one.
Want to Get Started in Construction?
You don't need to have your entire career figured out before you start.
A temporary construction job can give you a chance to earn money, gain experience and see what type of work is right for you.
Labor Finders works with job seekers looking for temporary, flexible and longer-term opportunities in construction and other blue-collar industries.
