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Common Laborer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

General Labor

Pico Rivera, CA · On-site

$25.45/hr

... and common sense. * Follow ALL safety, GMP and Food Safety policies and procedures at all times ... High School Diploma or equivalent * 6 months - 1 year of General Labor experience. * Must have ...

General Labor

Pico Rivera, CA · On-site

$25.45/hr

... and common sense. * Follow ALL safety, GMP and Food Safety policies and procedures at all times ... High School Diploma or equivalent * 6 months - 1 year of General Labor experience. * Must have ...

General Labor

Riverside, CA · On-site

$21 - $22/hr

General Labor Opportunity NewBasis, LLC. is looking to bring on a General Labor in our Riverside ... Demolding products after curing and hand trimming excess material using common hand tools.

Showing results 21-40

Common Laborer information

See California salary details

$10

$18

$23

How much do common laborer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for common laborer in California is $18.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.96 and $19.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Common Laborer vs Construction Laborer?

AspectCommon LaborerConstruction Laborer
Credentials/CertificationsNone typically requiredNone typically required
Work EnvironmentVarious industries, general labor tasksConstruction sites, building projects
Employer/Industry UsageBroadly used across multiple sectorsPrimarily in construction industry
Search/Comparison IntentCommon Laborer vs Construction Laborer

The main difference between a Common Laborer and a Construction Laborer is the work environment. Construction Laborers specifically work on building sites, often performing tasks like material handling and site cleanup. Common Laborers may work in various industries, including landscaping, manufacturing, or warehousing, with broader general labor duties. Both roles typically do not require formal certifications but are essential in their respective sectors.

What are common laborer jobs?

Common laborer jobs involve manual work such as construction, landscaping, warehouse tasks, and general maintenance. These roles often require physical strength, the use of tools or equipment, and adherence to safety protocols. They typically do not require advanced education but may benefit from on-the-job training or certifications like OSHA safety training.

What are some examples of common laborers?

Common laborers perform manual tasks such as loading and unloading materials, digging, cleaning, and basic construction work. They often work outdoors or in industrial settings and may use tools like shovels, forklifts, or power tools. Physical strength, stamina, and the ability to follow safety protocols are important for this role.

What is a common laborer?

A common laborer is a worker who performs manual tasks such as loading, unloading, digging, and basic construction work. They often work outdoors or in industrial settings and may need physical strength, basic skills, and safety training. The role typically requires physical stamina and the ability to follow instructions.
Infographic showing various Common Laborer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,803 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Laborer- (Laborer, Range 1) - HDCS Housing, Dining and Conference Services

San Francisco, CA • On-site

California State University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 1 - 5K employees

$41K - $44K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


California State University rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Laborer- (Laborer, Range 1) - HDCS Housing, Dining and Conference Services

Apply now Job no: 562084
Work type: Staff
Location: San Francisco
Categories: Unit 5 - CSUEU - Operations and Support Services, Custodial/Facilities, Probationary, Full Time, On-site (work in-person at business location)

*SFSU INTERNAL APPLICANTS ONLY*

Working Title

Laborer

Positions Available

1

SF State University

San Francisco State is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against persons on the basis of race, religion, color, ancestry, age, disability, genetic information, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, medical condition, National origin, sex, sexual orientation, covered veteran status, or any other protected status.  Reasonable accommodations will be provided for qualified applicants with disabilities who self-disclose by contacting the Senior Human Resources Manager.
Applicants may visit titleix.sfsu.edu for more information on SF State's policy prohibiting discrimination, and how to file an online report using the procedures under Executive Order 1096 Revised. Inquiries can be directed to the campus Title IX Coordinator and Discrimination, Harassment, and Retaliation Administrator by calling (415) 338-2032 or emailing vpsaem@sfsu.edu.
San Francisco State is a 100% Smoke/Vapor-Free Campus.  Smoking or Vaping of any tobacco/plant-based substance is not permitted on any University properties.
The person holding this position may be considered a "mandated reporter" under the California Child Abuse and Neglect  Reporting Act and is required to comply with the requirements set forth in CSU Executive Order 1083 as a condition of employment.
This position may be a "designated position" in the California State University's Conflict of Interest Code.  The successful candidate accepting this position may be required to file Conflict of Interest forms subject to the regulations of the Fair Political Practices Commission.

Department

Housing, Dining & Conference Services

Appointment Type

This is a one-year probationary appointment.

Time Base

Full-Time (1.0 FTE)

Work Schedule

Friday-Tuesday 8:00 AM-4:30 PM

Anticipated Hiring Range

$3,461.00-$3,747.00/month ($41,532.00-$44,964.00 annually)

Salary is commensurate with experience.

Position Summary

Under the general supervision of the Associate Director for Facilities (or designee), the Laborer performs a wide range of general, unskilled manual labor in support of Housing, Dining & Conference Services (HDCS) operations at San Francisco State University.

The incumbent supports housing facilities, grounds, event operations, and maintenance activities by performing physically demanding tasks such as material handling, waste removal, event setup, and general facilities support.

In addition, the position may provide lead work direction on an as-needed basis during peak operational periods such as student move-in/move-out, large-scale events, and special projects. When functioning in a lead capacity, the incumbent assists with coordinating workflow, guiding temporary and student staff, and ensuring work is completed safely, efficiently, and in alignment with operational standards.

This position plays a key role in maintaining safe, clean, and functional residential and campus environments in a dynamic, high-volume setting.

 

Position Information

Material Handling & Moving Services

  • Move, load, and unload furniture, appliances, equipment, and supplies
  • Assist with residential unit turnovers, including removal and placement of furnishings
  • Support large-scale housing operations such as move-in, move-out, and transitions
  • Transport materials across campus using carts, dollies, or university vehicles
  • Support warehouse operations, deliveries, and inventory movement
  • Set up and break down furniture and equipment for housing and conference events
  • Assist with surplus property handling and disposal

Waste & Recycling Operations

  • Collect, sort, and transport trash, recycling, and compost materials
  • Service central waste collection areas and event sites
  • Remove bulk waste, debris, and discarded materials from residential and common areas
  • Support move-in/move-out through large-scale disposal efforts
  • Ensure proper disposal practices aligned with campus sustainability goals
  • Maintain cleanliness and organization of waste collection areas

Event & Housing Operations Support

  • Set up, arrange, and reset spaces for conferences, programs, and events
  • Support event logistics including staging, furniture arrangement, and breakdown
  • Assist with operational readiness of housing and conference spaces
  • Respond to urgent operational needs to ensure continuity of services

Facilities & Grounds Support

  • Clean exterior areas including walkways, stairwells, courtyards, and service areas
  • Perform power washing and general exterior cleaning
  • Assist with minor repair work and work site preparation
  • Support drainage maintenance such as clearing gutters and culverts
  • Assist skilled trades staff with project setup and cleanup

Lead Work Direction (Seasonal)

  • Provide lead work direction during high-volume operational periods such as housing turnover
  • Assign and coordinate daily tasks for temporary, seasonal, and/or student employees
  • Provide on-the-job guidance for material handling, safety practices, and proper techniques
  • Monitor workflow and adjust assignments to meet operational demands
  • Inspect completed work for quality, safety, and completeness
  • Communicate priorities, timelines, and expectations clearly to team members
  • Assist with onboarding and training of temporary staff
  • Serve as a point of contact in the field to support efficient operations

Equipment Operation & Maintenance

  • Operate hand tools and basic powered equipment
  • Perform routine maintenance and cleaning of tools and equipment
  • Report equipment malfunctions and safety concerns
 

Other Duties as Assigned

Minimum Qualifications

Abilities

Ability to read and write at a level appropriate to the duties of the position; follow verbal and written instructions to ensure safety; perform regular strenuous manual labor; and safely move heavy items in excess of 50 pounds.

 

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience performing general labor, moving, or facilities support work
  • Experience in a university, housing, hospitality, or facilities environment
  • Familiarity with event setup and breakdown operations
  • Basic knowledge of safety practices and equipment use
  • Experience supporting maintenance, custodial, or grounds operations
  • Ability to work effectively in a diverse, student-centered environment
 

Required License/Certification

  • Some positions may require possession of a valid California driver's license
  • The person holding this position is considered a 'mandated reporter' under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and is required to comply with the requirements set forth in CSU Executive Order 1083 Revised July 21, 2017 as a condition of employment.

Environmental/Physical/Special Working Conditions

  • Work is performed indoors and outdoors in residential and campus environments
  • Requires frequent standing, walking, bending, lifting, pushing, and pulling
  • Ability to lift and move heavy materials (50+ pounds) with or without accommodation
  • Exposure to dust, debris, waste materials, and varying weather conditions
  • May require use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
  • May work evenings, weekends, and holidays based on operational needs, including peak housing periods such as move-in and move-out
  • May be required to respond to emergency situations and be available for call back outside of regular working hours
  • Required to support peak periods such as student move-in/move-out and conferences
 
 
 
Pre-Employment Requirements:
 
This position requires the successful completion of a background check.

Eligibility to Work

Applicants must be able to provide proof of US Citizenship or authorization to work in the United States, within three business days from their date of hire.

Benefits

Threaded through our Total Compensation package is a commitment to Bridging Life's Transitions.  SF State is committed to providing our employees with a comprehensive program that rewards efforts that are appreciated by your colleagues, students and the customers we serve.
We offer a competitive compensation package that includes Medical, Dental, Vision, Pension, 401k, Healthcare Savings Account, Life Insurance, Disability Insurance, Vacation and Sick Leave as well as State Holidays and a dynamic Fee Waiver program, all geared towards the University's commitment to attract, motivate and retain our employee.

CSUEU Position (For CSUEU Positions Only)

Eligible and qualified on-campus applicants, currently in bargaining units 2, 5, 7, and 9 are given hiring preference.

Additional Information

SF STATE IS NOT A SPONSORING AGENCY FOR STAFF OR MANAGEMENT POSITIONS. (i.e. H1-B VISAS).

Thank you for your interest in employment with California State University (CSU).  CSU is a state entity whose business operations reside within the State of California.  Because of this, CSU prohibits hiring employees to perform CSU-related work outside of California with very limited exception.  While this position may be eligible for occasional telework, all work is expected to be performed in the state of California, and this position is assigned to on-campus operations.

CSU strongly encourages faculty, staff, and students who are accessing campus facilities to be immunized against COVID-19. The systemwide policy can be found at https://calstate.policystat.com/policy/9779821/latest/.

The Human Resources office is open Mondays through Fridays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and can be reached at (415) 338-1872.

Please note that this position, position requirements, application deadline and/or any other component of this position is subject to change or cancellation at any time.
 

*SFSU INTERNAL APPLICANTS ONLY*

Advertised: Sep 10 2026 Pacific Daylight Time
Applications close:

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About California State University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

California State University, Fresno is one of 23 campuses in the California State University System. The University's mission is to boldly educate and empower students for success through our values of Discovery, Diversity and Distinction. The current student population is more than 25,000, including a large percentage of students with diverse and culturally rich backgrounds. The University serves the San Joaquin Valley while maintaining deep involvement with the state, nation, and across the globe.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Long Beach, CA, US