what is a general labourer?
As a general labourer, you are a support worker in a business, predominantly within a trade. You complete tasks that do not require specific knowledge or training, like cleaning up materials, performing manual labour, hanging signs or filing reports.
General labourers normally work under a supervisor, and the tasks are often physically demanding. However, some general labourers also perform basic office work, such as answering phone calls or transporting files from one department to another.
Most general labourers work across fields such as construction, landscaping, manufacturing, agriculture, or mining and resources. These industries need physical labour that does not require specialist skills. General labour duties include a variety of tasks, such as installing windows, digging trenches or weeding flower beds. You also work as an assistant to painters, carpenters, roofers or other specialised workers. Additional tasks include handling parking at large events, moving furniture for offices and other similar duties.
Due to the nature of your duties, you require stamina and physical strength. You sometimes perform strenuous tasks, like moving heavy objects or loading and unloading trucks, so physical fitness comes in handy. You also require knowledge of how to operate and maintain various tools.
view vacanciesaverage general labourer salary
The average salary of general labourers in Australia is $65,000 per year. When you are new in the role, you start with a salary of $60,000 annually. However, as you improve your experience and skills, your earnings increase to over $70,000 yearly. Most general labourer tasks attract hourly rates, which means working additional hours increases your earnings.
how to increase your salary as a general labourer
As a general labourer, you do not need qualifications to start working. However, having basic credentials in the industry of your choice improves your earning potential. The additional qualifications improve your knowledge of operating machinery.
Aside from experience and qualifications, your employer also influences your earnings. When you work in a large organisation, your remuneration package is higher due to the complexity of the tasks. Large companies tend to have more resources and can afford to pay higher salaries. Smaller companies may need more resources to pay general labourers higher salaries.
Some industries also have higher remuneration due to the work involved. For instance, working in construction or mining may attract higher salaries than warehouses.
Want to know what you will earn as a general labourer? Check out what you are worth with our salary checker.
types of general labourers
General labourers can specialise in different business sectors based on their skills. For instance, construction general labourers perform various tasks on construction sites, including preparing job sites, digging trenches and cleaning machines. In construction, you require knowledge of building materials and operating various tools to ensure safety.
Warehouse general labourers work in warehouses or distribution centres, assisting other tradespeople with menial tasks. Some of your duties include loading or unloading delivery trucks and packaging materials to prepare them for shipment. In manufacturing, you unload materials from trucks and move them to their designated locations. You also assist with cleaning and maintenance tasks.
working as a general labourer
If you are interested in working as a general labourer, check out the duties and work environments associated with the role.
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general labourer job description
General labourers perform diverse duties depending on the industry. Typical tasks associated with the role include:
- preparing the work site: as a general labourer, you clear the work site before work commences. For instance, you clear the construction site by removing foliage, debris and hazards. You dig trenches and complete all the groundwork necessary for establishing the foundation of a building project. Other duties include transporting materials to the work site and clearing walk paths.
- assisting in construction or maintenance projects: you assist in construction projects by ensuring professionals have the right equipment to complete their tasks. You also perform duties specific to a trade, like working with plumbers to install pipes or with carpenters to create furniture.
- operating machinery and specialised tools: as a general labourer, you use specialised tools to complete work on construction sites. For instance, you use a tile cutter to shape floor tiles and other hand tools to complete construction tasks. Sometimes, you use heavy machinery to lift building materials or demolish old structures.
- maintaining safe work environments: as a general labourer, your job involves cleaning job sites to maintain safe work environments. For instance, you fill trenches and pits or clear construction debris from work sites. During construction, you ensure the site has clear walking paths to avoid accidents.
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work environment
Many general labourers work outdoors, and you can expect to work in all weather, such as high heat, chilly temperatures and damp conditions. However, not all general labour jobs require being exposed to extreme weather. Warehouse labourers spend most of their time working indoors or at least under cover. General labourers often travel to various job sites, so you'll likely need transportation.
The work environment of a general labourer is usually fairly low-pressure. Although you are expected to follow instructions and complete tasks promptly, you are not responsible for figuring out solutions or working independently.
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who are your colleagues?
Depending on your employer and the industry you work in, your colleagues might include warehouse workers, welders and carpenters. You might also be working in close proximity to plumbers and project engineers, as well as other specialists that could include, but not be limited to, mechanics, construction workers and supervisors.
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work schedule
A general labourer's schedule can shift depending on the job, but most work during the daytime. You'll typically be needed during the hours that the business or your boss works. However, it is possible to find some general labourer jobs involving night shifts, early mornings or other unconventional schedules.
An average day at work can last anywhere from four to nine hours. Most labourers work full-time shifts, but there is also a lot of demand for part-time general labourers. Some workers spend a few weeks working long shifts daily on a specific project and then take a break before starting their next job. However, only some general labourers have chaotic schedules. Those hired full-time by a larger company have a more predictable routine.
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job outlook
General labourers have a very positive job outlook. The projected job growth rate is 8.7% in the next five years. You can consider multiple job options and find one that pays the best or offers the most opportunities. This allows you to start learning valuable skills and gain good experience.
You can also get to know local businesses, network, and prove your commitment and dedication. Many general labourers go on to work higher-paying jobs within their industry. These roles include foreman, manager and other specific construction-site roles, as well as specialised tradespersons, such as builders or plasterers.
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advantages of finding a general labourer job through randstad
Finding your general labourer job through Randstad provides important advantages such as:
- a wide variety of training and development opportunities
- an experienced contact person to provide help if needed
- a range of opportunities in your area
- get paid weekly or monthly, depending on the job
- temporary and permanent contracts
Want a permanent contract? A temporary job as a general labourer is often a stepping stone to an attractive permanent job. Thousands of people earn a permanent contract every year with great employers thanks to a temporary job found through Randstad. What's more, many companies recruit their permanent employees through Randstad too.
education and skills
You don’t require formal educational qualifications to become a general labourer in Australia since most employers provide on-the-job training. However, some industries require vocational qualifications.
To become a general labourer in Australia, decide on the industry you want to work in and complete the necessary training. For instance, if you want to work in landscaping, demolition or construction, complete the necessary training from a registered training organisation (RTO) to obtain a White Card. You can also pursue a TAFE course, such as Certificate I in Construction.
general labourer skills and competencies
General labourers require the following skills and qualities:
- physical fitness and strength: as a general labourer, you perform manual tasks. Endurance and strength are required to move heavy loads and operate equipment and machinery. You also require stamina and fitness to bend or stand for long hours.
- ability to follow instructions: your duties are usually assigned by a supervisor or a tradesperson. The ability to complete the work perfectly depends on your capability to follow instructions. Being responsive and compliant allows you to carry out tasks efficiently.
- flexibility: as a general labourer, you perform a range of tasks and work in diverse work sites. You need flexibility to work with different crews and in diverse weather conditions.
- teamwork skills: as a general labourer, you work in teams and collaborate with tradespeople. You require teamwork skills to work well with workers at various levels.
FAQs about working as a general labourer
Here, you will find the answers to the most frequently asked questions about the profession of a general labourer.
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what are the duties of a general labourer?
As a general labourer, you perform manual tasks like digging trenches and preparing job sites. Other duties include unloading building materials and transporting them around the construction site.
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what is the difference between a skilled labourer and a general labourer?
A general labourer does not require specialised training to work in construction and other work sites. However, a skilled labourer requires specialised training to operate equipment and heavy machinery.
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what do you need to be a general labourer?
While you don’t need educational qualifications, you require basic training from an RTO. Pursue a course in construction and obtain a White Card to work on construction sites. You also require skills in operating various equipment.
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what skills should a general labourer have?
As a general labourer, you should have the physical stamina and strength to move materials and heavy loads at work sites. Endurance and physical fitness are important since you stand or bend for long hours. Teamwork skills are also crucial for general labourers working in teams. Collaboration skills are useful since you work with other professionals.
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how much do general labourers make in Australia?
As a general labourer, you earn an average salary of $65,000 per year. The amount fluctuates based on experience and skills. Entry-level workers with minimal skills and expertise start with a salary of $60,000 annually. With experience and additional skills, you are likely to earn over $70,000 yearly.
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how do I apply for a general labourer vacancy?
Applying for a general labourer job is easy: create a Randstad profile and search our job offers for vacancies in your area. Then send us your CV and cover letter. Need help with your application? Check out all our job search tips here.
