Careers In Construction


Laborer (Updated May 2009)


The work tasks of the Construction Craft Laborers tasks include, but are not limited to, building and repairing roads, highways, bridges and tunnels; constructing residential and commercial buildings; erecting and dismantling scaffolds; laying underground pipe; placing concrete; preparing and cleaning up a job site; flagging and controlling traffic; cleaning up hazardous waste sites and the removal of asbestos and lead from buildings. Work will be located within the jurisdiction of the Chicago Laborers District Council, which consists of Boon, Cook, DuPage, Grundy, Kane, Kendall, Lake, McHenry and Will counties.

Length of Apprenticeship:


Two (2) years

  • Apprentices must have 2,400 hours of on-the job diversified work training.

  • Apprentices are required to attend 360 hours of training.

  • Apprentices who fail to meet satisfactory attendance and progress in related classes may result in disciplinary action by the Chicagoland Laborers Joint Training and Apprentice Fund.

  • Wage Information:


    Year One
    1st 6 mos: 60% of journeyman wage
    2nd 6 mos: 70% of journeyman wage

    Year Two
    1st 6 mos: 80% of journeyman wage
    2nd 6 mos: 90% of journeyman wage
    Journeyman Level: 100% of journeyman wage

    Benefits:


    Health & Welfare, Pension.

    Basic Requirements:


  • Must be at least 18 years old and show proof of age.

  • Must be legally eligible to work in the U.S.

  • Must have a 10th grade education.

  • Must have a valid Driver’s License and reliable transportation.

  • Must be able to read, understand, write and communicate in the English language.

  • Must pass an illegal substance test.

  • Must be able to physically perform the work of the trade.

  • Working Conditions:


    Laborers perform physically demanding tasks in a variety of weather conditions that require strength, endurance and agility.

    Recommended Preparatory Classes:


    Any type of construction safety training would be beneficial.

    Abilities:


  • Must be able to lift heavy objects.

  • Must be able to work with all types of machinery.

  • Must be able to work at heights (scaffolds) and in confined spaces.

  • Work Experience:


    (Helpful, but not necessary for acceptance.) Previous experience working with construction is beneficial.

    Entry Process:


    Accepting contractor-sponsored applicants at this time.
    Submit the following at time of application:
    1. Birth certificate.

    2. High school diploma, G.E.D. or transcripts showing completion of the 10th grade.

    3. Social Security card.

    4. Picture I.D. (driver’s license or state-issued I.D.).

    5. A Letter of Sponsorship from a participating signatory contractor on company letterhead, signed by an authorized person.

    6. Take a written test.

    7. Submit to an oral interview.

    8. Pass a drug test.

    Contact:


    Chicagoland Laborers Joint Training and Apprentice Fund
    1200 Old Gary Avenue
    Carol Stream, IL 60188
    Phone: (630) 653-0006

    Coordinator:


    Paul Hoetzer
    Email: paul.hoetzer@chicagolaborers.org

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    CAREERS IN CONSTRUCTION
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    CONTACT US
    • Thomas A. White
    Three Rivers Construction Alliance | 233 Springfield Ave. | Joliet, IL 60435 | Phone: (877) 740-TRCA (8722) | Fax: (815) 230-1376