Laborers'

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Hey Jeff, Sure, I can offer some advice. First you’re going to need to attend the info session for the Milbury, MA location (where you live). After the info session you will receive a code which will allow you to apply to the union. The good news for you is unions in general are in need of people so getting in right now isn’t as difficult as it used to be. The union is a great place to be for those of us who enjoy the rigors of construction work. The main thing I will tell you is this, just be yourself when you get an interview. The union isn’t just looking for people who are willing to work, they are looking for people who they think will be good fit. If you be yourself and present yourself with confidence you will be fine. Then you will need to pass a drug test. If you present yourself well in the interview and pass your drug test you should have no problem. Once your accepted be sure to call the local union hall once a month every month until you get a job. I’ll be honest it could take up to a year for you to get your first job but it could also happen within a month. Once you get your first job you will officially be in the union on a probationary period. Then you’ll be off and running on your way to a satisfying and rewarding future. I’m currently in my first year in the union, and if I can do it you can as well. I hope this helps.

North Atlantic States Regional Counsel of Carpenters
http://www.nercc.org/Join_Us/Apprenticeship

The Work of Laborers

Laborers work on highway construction projects, doing clearing, grade checking, stake hopping, culvert installation, equipment signaling and traffic control. Laborers work on utility construction including excavation, shoring, pipe laying, manhole placement and construction, backfill, compaction, transferring of grades, and grade checking and measuring. In building construction and housing, laborers' work includes excavation, footing and foundations, carpenter tending, compaction, concrete placement, power and hand tools, general clean up and mason tending (hod carrying) for bricklayers. Environmental laborers do asbestos removal, hazardous waste, and radiation clean up. 

Working Conditions for Laborers

Laborers perform very physical work, digging, carrying, pulling and bending usually outside in all kinds of weather for long hours at times. They need reliable transportation and must be able to travel 70-80 miles from home to construction sites.