How to Become a Teenage Construction Worker

If you’re a teenager who loves working with your hands, becoming a construction worker might be the perfect career choice for you. With the right skills and training, you could be building houses, bridges or even skyscrapers before you know it! But where do you start? In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the steps to become a teenage construction worker.

Firstly, it’s important to understand that construction work can involve long hours and physically demanding tasks. But if you have a passion for building things and don’t mind getting your hands dirty, it can also be incredibly rewarding. To get started in this industry, there are several paths you can take depending on your interests and goals. For example, some teenagers may choose to attend vocational school or an apprenticeship program while others may prefer to gain on-the-job experience by working as a laborer or helper on a job site.

What Does a Teenage Construction Worker do?

What Does a Teenage Construction Worker do? For many teenagers, the idea of working in construction might not immediately come to mind when considering future career paths. However, for some young adults, working in construction can provide valuable on-the-job training and experience that can be applied to a variety of fields. So, what exactly does a teenage construction worker do?

Teenage construction workers are typically involved in all aspects of building and repair projects, from site preparation to final cleanup. This may include tasks such as digging trenches and holes, moving materials and equipment around the job site, mixing concrete or other building compounds, and assisting skilled tradespeople with their work. In addition to these physical tasks, teenage construction workers must also be able to follow instructions carefully and work collaboratively with others.

How Much Does a Teenage Construction Worker Get Paid?

If you’re a teenager looking to get into the construction industry, one of your top concerns is probably how much money you can make. While pay rates vary depending on factors like location, experience, and employer, there are some general figures that can give you an idea of what to expect. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median hourly wage for construction laborers was $16.87 as of May 2020. This means that approximately 50% of workers in this category earned more than that amount and 50% earned less.

Of course, construction laborers aren’t the only type of worker on a job site. There are also carpenters, electricians, plumbers, and other skilled tradespeople who typically command higher wages due to their specialized knowledge and training. For example, the median hourly wage for electricians was $28.

How Can I Get Started as a Teenage Construction Worker?

1. Meet age requirements: To work in construction as a teenager, you must meet the minimum age requirement set by your state or country. In most cases, this is 16 years old, but some states require workers to be at least 18 years old. Check your state’s labor laws to determine the minimum age requirement.
2. Get educated: While a high school diploma is not required to work in construction, it can be helpful. You will need to be able to read blueprints, perform basic math, and understand safety procedures. Taking classes in drafting, woodworking, and math can help prepare you for a career in construction.
3. Apply for an apprenticeship: An apprenticeship is a training program where you work under the supervision of experienced construction workers. It’s a great way to gain hands-on experience and learn the skills needed for a career in construction. Many construction companies offer apprenticeships, and you can also find them through vocational schools or unions.
4. Get certified: Many construction jobs require certifications, such as a certification in operating heavy equipment or a license to operate a crane. Certifications can be obtained through vocational schools or unions, and some construction companies offer on-the-job training to help workers obtain the necessary certifications.
5. Network: Building relationships with other construction workers and companies can help you find job opportunities and learn about new projects. Attend industry events, join trade associations, and connect with others in the industry through social media.
6. Be prepared to work hard: Construction work is physically demanding and requires long hours in all types of weather. You will need to be in good physical shape and have a strong work ethic to succeed in this industry.
7. Focus on safety: Safety is a top priority in construction, and you will need to follow strict safety protocols to protect yourself and others on the job site. Always wear personal protective equipment, follow safety guidelines, and report any safety concerns to your supervisor immediately.
8. Build your skills: Construction work requires a variety of skills, from operating heavy machinery to reading blueprints. Be open to learning new skills and take advantage of any training opportunities that come your way.
9. Be reliable: Construction companies depend on their workers to show up on time and complete their work on schedule. Be reliable, show up on time, and be willing to work overtime if necessary.
10. Have a positive attitude: Construction work can be challenging, but it can also be rewarding. Approach your work with a positive attitude, be willing to learn from your mistakes, and take pride in your accomplishments.

Helpful Resources For Teenage Construction Workers

• Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) – OSHA provides safety regulations and training for the construction industry.
• National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) – NCCER provides training and certification programs for the construction industry.
• Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) – AGC provides resources and support for construction workers and companies.
• National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) – NAHB provides resources and training for those working in the home building industry.
• Your state’s labor department – Your state’s labor department can provide information on labor laws, apprenticeship programs, and job opportunities in the construction industry.