Table of contents
As a general laborer, you’re the backbone of every construction project.
You understand that a strong foundation is key — not just in buildings but in presenting your skills and experience too. That’s why it’s important to have a well-crafted resume that reflects your hard work and dedication.
We realize you might be more accustomed to the physical aspect of labor than the nuances of resume writing. But don’t worry, everyone needs a helping hand sometimes, especially when looking for a new role or opportunity.
In this straightforward guide, we’ll help you make a resume as robust and reliable as the work you do every day.
This guide covers:
- General labor job description details and how to tailor your resume to them.
- Effective organization strategies for a general laborer’s resume.
- Selecting a resume template that suits the construction industry.
- How to write each section of your resume to match the general labor job description.
- The benefits of including a cover letter with your application.
Ready to revamp your resume? Let our Resume Builder guide you. Explore a variety of resume samples specifically designed for general laborers. Choose your preferred template, customize it to your needs and download a refined resume in just a few minutes.
General labor resume examples
What makes this a great general labor resume sample?
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Transferable skills are highlighted
This resume highlights transferable skills, such as marketing experience, to show they can be attractive and beneficial in construction.
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Prominent skills section
The resume focuses on skills, with bold headers like “Communication,” “Teamwork” and “Site Expertise” breaking them up. This formatting guides the reader’s attention to the broad categories the candidate excels in.
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Career objective at top
Placing a career objective at the top is a strategic choice for those with limited work experience. It allows the candidate to clearly state their goals and relevant skills, setting a focused tone for the rest of the resume.
What makes this a great general labor resume sample?
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Modern and organized design
The resume employs a modern design that is both aesthetically pleasing and well-organized. This presentation suggests polished professionalism.
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Robust work history
The work history section is comprehensive, illustrating a progression from an assistant role to a general laborer. This showcases the candidate’s growing responsibilities over time.
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Certifications are highlighted
Essential certifications, such as OSHA for safety, are prominently displayed. This validates the candidate’s qualifications and dedication to safety standards and is also a critical requirement in this field.
Looking for a different resume example? Here are some related jobs that might interest you.
Choose the right resume format for a general labor resume
Picking a resume format is like getting ready for a day’s work — you want everything in order and easy to find.
There are three resume formats to consider:
- Chronological resume: This is like laying a foundation — start with your most recent job and work backward. It’s great if you’ve been around the block and have a steady work history.
- Functional resume: Here’s where your skills shine. If you’re new to construction or making a comeback, this format helps highlight what you can do, not just where you’ve worked.
- Combination resume: Mixing experience and skills? This format lets you show off both, like having the right tool for every job.
A chronological resume might be the way to go if you’ve been in the field for a while. It’s straightforward, like a well-laid plan. New to the field? Consider the functional or combination formats.
For resume formatting, use a clean, simple font like Arial. And just like keeping a job site tidy, ensure there’s enough white space on your resume. As for resume length, aim for one page. But if you’ve been working for years, it’s okay to stretch it to two pages.
Finally, give your resume a bit of personality, like choosing the right color for your hard hat. Trust what you know — you’ve got this!
Choose a general labor resume template
For general laborers, particularly in construction, the right resume template can be valuable in your job search.
A simple resume template or a modern resume is perfect for this field, emphasizing your skills and experience clearly and concisely. This approach matches the no-nonsense, practical nature of construction work.
However, if you want to distinguish yourself from other candidates, consider using a creative resume template. This is an unusual choice in the construction industry, so it can make your resume more memorable. Just ensure that the design supports and highlights your professional information rather than overwhelming it.
Remember, your resume’s design aims to present your qualifications in the best light, not to distract from them. The right template can enhance your presentation, making your skills and achievements the focal point.
How to write a general laborer resume in 5 simple steps
You’re well-versed in understanding job descriptions and the importance of keywords. Let’s discuss how your knowledge applies to writing your own resume in five easy steps.
STEP 1
Read the general labor job description
Begin by thoroughly reading the general labor job description closely. Since many companies use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to filter resumes, including relevant keywords from the job posting is important.
In a general labor job description, typical phrases might include “site preparation,” “tool handling” or “safety compliance.” Use these terms in your summary, skills and experience sections to create an ATS-friendly resume. It’s about incorporating the job ad’s language effectively.
Tailoring your resume improves your chances of catching an employer’s attention. Just like recognizing the right tool for a specific task on a job site, getting the keywords right on your resume is equally important.
With this foundation, you’re well-equipped to start building your resume.
STEP 2
Write a professional summary or resume objective
In construction, a strong resume profile can set the stage for your application. This section is your first chance to make an impression and draw in the reader.
The beginning of your resume, usually a professional summary or objective statement, is where your skills and experiences can truly stand out.
If you have extensive experience in construction, use a professional summary to showcase your skills and past achievements. This is your chance to highlight key aspects of your work, from construction techniques to safety compliance.
If you’re new to construction or transitioning from another field, a career objective is more appropriate. This is your opportunity to express your career aspirations and goals, whether from another industry or newly acquired.
Here are some examples to guide you:
General laborer professional summary example:
Experienced construction laborer skilled in all phases of building, from foundation laying to finishing work. Proven track record in completing projects on time, adhering to safety protocols and working effectively in team environments.
General laborer resume objective example:
New to the construction industry, with a background in [previous field], eager to apply [transferable skills] to a dynamic construction team. Keen on contributing to project success through hard work, quick learning and commitment to safety.
STEP 3
Showcase your key general laborer skills
You want employers to know the specific skills you bring to the table as a general laborer. Companies look for a combination of hard and soft skills in this field.
Your hard skills are the specific, measurable abilities you’ve acquired through your experience in construction, such as proficiency in different construction techniques, knowledge of safety protocols or expertise in operating machinery. For instance, you might be skilled in masonry, carpentry or proficient in operating heavy equipment.
Your soft skills are equally important. These might include strong teamwork, effective communication or the ability to work efficiently under pressure — all vital for ensuring projects are completed safely and on time.
To give you an idea, here’s a balanced list of typical skills for a general laborer in construction:
Example of a general laborer skills section:
- Proficient in various construction techniques and tools.
- Experienced in operating heavy machinery with a focus on safety.
- Familiar with standard construction site protocols and safety measures.
- Strong team player, able to communicate effectively with co-workers and supervisors.
- Capable of handling physically demanding tasks and working in various weather conditions.
It’s increasingly important to include computer skills on your resume. In today’s construction industry, being able to navigate digital tools and software for project management, communication or blueprint reading is a valuable asset.
STEP 4
Write a strong work experience section
Whether you’re seasoned in the field or just starting out, the work experience section of your resume is where you can really demonstrate the value you’ve brought to previous projects. This section is key to showing potential employers the impact of your work.
Remember, hiring managers must understand your experience quickly, so clear and concise descriptions are crucial. Organize your work history in bullet points, focusing on achievements and contributions rather than just listing job duties.
Here’s how you might structure it for a general labor role:
General Laborer, [Employer Name]
[City, State]
[Dates of Employment]
- Implemented efficient site preparation methods, improving project start times by 15%.
- Operated heavy machinery with a focus on safety, resulting in zero workplace accidents.
- Collaborated effectively with 25+ team members on large-scale projects, ensuring timely completion.
- Assisted in diverse construction tasks, from framing to finishing, demonstrating versatility.
- Contributed to a site waste reduction initiative, reducing material costs by 10%.
Start your bullet points with action verbs like “implemented,” “operated” and “collaborated.” These words actively showcase your involvement and initiative in your roles, highlighting your hands-on experience and leadership in construction tasks.
STEP 5
Detail education and certifications
The education section of your resume is where you showcase your foundational knowledge and specialized training, both of which are important in the construction industry. Listing your degrees, whether your high school education or special certifications, is essential.
Here’s how you can list your education and certifications:
Education:
High School Diploma
[Name of High School]
[City, State]
Graduated: [Month Year, e.g., June 2018]
Certifications:
- OSHA Safety Certification
- Construction Equipment Operation Certification
- Basic First Aid and CPR Training
Your certifications are an important part of your professional identity. They underscore your specialized skills and dedication to safety and efficiency on the job site.
Optional sections for your resume
Projects
Detailing specific construction projects where you had a significant role can showcase your hands-on experience and the scope of your abilities.
Example for a recruiting coordinator resume:
- Contributed to the construction of the Greenfield Commercial Complex, focusing on groundwork and framing.
- Assisted in the renovation of historical Downtown Apartments, demonstrating skills in restoration and finishing work.
Volunteer work
Your participation in volunteer projects, especially those involving construction skills, highlights your community involvement and ability to apply your skills in diverse settings.
Example for a general laborer resume:
- Volunteered in building community housing with Habitat for Humanity, contributing to construction and site preparation.
- Participated in local park renovation projects, showcasing landscaping and general construction skills.
Languages
Multilingual abilities are a significant asset in diverse work environments, enhancing communication on multilingual construction sites.
Example for a general laborer resume:
- Fluent in English and Spanish
- Basic proficiency in French
Professional memberships
Membership in relevant construction or trade organizations shows your commitment to the industry and staying informed about the latest trends and safety standards.
Example for a general laborer resume:
- Member of the North American Building Trades Unions (NABTU), participating in workshops and safety training sessions.
- Active member of the Associated General Contractors of America, engaging in industry networking events and construction seminars.
Hobbies/Interests
Including hobbies or interests related to construction or physical activities can provide insight into your passions and additional skills.
Example for a general laborer resume:
- Enthusiastic about DIY woodworking projects, enhancing carpentry and fine-detail skills.
- Avid rock climber, demonstrating physical strength and endurance relevant to demanding construction tasks.
Add a cover letter
While it’s often not necessary to write a cover letter for a general labor position, there are times, especially when applying to competitive companies, when it can demonstrate your ambition and potential for future construction roles.
Use this opportunity to share a story that highlights your strengths, experiences and any challenges you’ve overcome in your laboring career. It’s your chance to showcase unique experiences, such as involvement in significant construction projects or displaying exceptional teamwork and leadership on the job site.
Your cover letter should be as straightforward and effective as a well-organized project plan. Choose a professional template that has the clarity of a good work plan. If you’re uncertain where to start, there are cover letter examples and builders that offer guidance tailored to roles that require hands-on skills and practical experience.
Together, your resume and cover letter can provide a full picture of your skills, work ethic and enthusiasm for construction work, helping you stand out in a field where additional written narratives are rare.
Key takeaways for your general laborer resume
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Incorporate relevant keywords
Just as precise measurements and specific tools are crucial in construction, ensure your resume includes key terms from the general labor job description.
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Use an effective structure
Choose a resume format that showcases your strengths. For those with substantial construction experience, a chronological resume is ideal to highlight your work history.
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Choose a professional design
Your resume should have a professional and visually clear layout to make it easy and clear to read at a glance.
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Showcase your skills
Detail both your practical construction skills, like equipment operation or site preparation, and soft skills such as teamwork or problem-solving.
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Highlight certifications
Stand out by listing any relevant certifications, like OSHA safety training or specific equipment operation licenses. These show your commitment to industry standards.
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Focus on achievements
Rather than just listing job duties, spotlight specific achievements or contributions, such as completing a project under budget or improving site safety practices.
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Add a personal touch
While not always necessary in construction, a cover letter can be a plus. Use it to express your enthusiasm for the field and how your skills align with the requirements.
Commonly asked questions about resume writing
Don is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with more than 10 years’ experience creating digital content, including four years helping job seekers develop their careers. He holds an M.S. in Journalism from Northwestern University.
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