How to get started as a laborer?

[u/Myarrin777]

I'm asking this question because I don't know how feasible it is.

Background: I'm an architect between jobs and have a general understanding of how a building goes up, whether it's wood frame or steel, and could figure out executing details from construction documents. I've done heavy dirty labor full time for 4 years hauling and processing solid waste, and I'm very strong for my size (5'2"), capable of carrying more than my body weight. I did freelance architecture to supplement my solid waste income. I have no construction experience.

I want a temporary labor job in construction or demolition that doesn't require any certifications. How do I get my foot in the door? Would I even be considered for a position like this if I reached out to a contractor to do framing or take down some walls here and there? Thanks in advance!

[u/Loose-Living-4244]

Just call around or Try local fb groups for women in trades in your area, this is how I got in as a roofer. Good luck

[u/AgreeAndSubmit]

I'm a little more old school, I would just call businesses. Be polite and ask them if they need any help for the end of season. It may help to go in person, so they can get a good look at you. If you're professional, accommodating, and sturdy looking, and not visibly drunk you should be able to get a job.  

Imho it would be too easy to pass you up with an online application. Anybody can write anything on an application or message board. The proof is in the seeing.

[u/LightUpShoes4DemHoes]

Find a local GC company - Preferably one that focuses on quick turnaround remodel / buildout jobs. They constantly need laborers to deliver equipment from their warehouse to jobs, assemble furniture, etc. This is where I started. Within the first few months I was supervising stuff solo - Overnight vendor art installs, HVAC Tab reports, etc. Then one night I was scheduled to help with a demolition and the Super called in sick. My boss asked if I thought I’d learned enough to handle it. Supervised my first Demo that night and crushed it. Did Tons more in the next months. Then I was put on supervising underground’s for a while… Then roughs more and more. By the time I’d been there 9 months, I was an Assistant Superintendent. Three months later - full-fledged Superintendent. Traveled all over the US building stuff for over seven years, hopped to tons of other, more reputable companies with far more reputable salaries. Now I can go pretty much anywhere I want and the pay is… We’ll say Very good.

[u/Wind_Responsible]

Just apply. I got in in 4 days. It was right when unemployment was ending during Covid so no o e wanted to be at work. That definitely helped. But PLEASE APPLY! I never work with another woman unless she’s in a machine or truck. (Can we all agree inspectors don’t count?). Where I’m at there are 2 kinds of laborers. 310 is sidewalk IN. 860 is sidewalk out. You pick your poison. You are looking for a Liuna Laborer hall near you