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Contractor Helper Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

MEP Helper - Support Multi-Trade HVAC, Plumbing, and Electrical Field Operations Job Overview * Company: On The Mark Management * Salary/Pay Rate: $25.00 to $35.00 per hour * Location: Chantilly, VA

Welder Helper

Richmond, VA · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

As Pipefitter/welder Helper, you will assist with layout and fabrication of piping systems ... As a full-service MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) contractor, we pride ourselves on the ...

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Contractor Helper information

See Virginia salary details

$9

$17

$22

How much do contractor helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for contractor helper in Virginia is $17.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.00 and $19.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contractor helper?

Contractor Helpers assist skilled tradespeople, such as carpenters, electricians, plumbers, and other construction professionals, by performing a variety of basic tasks on job sites. Their duties often include loading and unloading materials, cleaning and preparing work areas, holding or supplying tools, and following instructions from supervisors. They play a vital role in ensuring that construction projects run smoothly, safely, and efficiently. No formal education is usually required, but on-the-job training is common.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a contractor helper?

A Contractor Helper typically assists skilled tradespeople by preparing materials, cleaning and organizing the work area, and carrying tools or equipment. Daily tasks may also include measuring and cutting materials, following safety protocols, and helping with the setup or dismantling of scaffolding. Contractor Helpers often work closely with carpenters, electricians, or plumbers, providing hands-on support to ensure projects run smoothly and efficiently. The role is fast-paced and requires adaptability, teamwork, and a willingness to learn new skills on the job.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contractor helper?

To thrive as a Contractor Helper, you need basic construction knowledge, physical stamina, and the ability to follow instructions, often with a high school diploma or GED. Familiarity with hand and power tools, safety equipment, and job site protocols is commonly required. Dependability, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are important soft skills that help you excel in this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality support for contractors and tradespeople on diverse construction projects.

What is the difference between Contractor Helper vs Construction Laborer?

AspectContractor HelperConstruction Laborer
Credentials/CertificationsTypically none required; on-the-job trainingOften none, but some roles may require OSHA safety training
Work EnvironmentAssists contractors on construction sites, often in residential or commercial projectsPerforms manual labor on construction sites, including digging, lifting, and material handling
Employer/Industry UsageCommonly employed by contractors for support rolesHired directly by construction companies or subcontractors for labor tasks
Search/Comparison IntentOften searched by those looking for entry-level construction support rolesCompared for more physically demanding labor positions in construction

In summary, a Contractor Helper primarily assists contractors with various tasks on construction sites, often requiring minimal certifications. A Construction Laborer performs more manual labor and physical tasks, sometimes with safety training. Both roles are essential in the construction industry but differ in responsibilities and skill requirements.

How to become a contractor helper?

To become a contractor helper, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and some physical fitness, as the role involves manual labor. Gaining experience in construction or related fields, understanding safety protocols, and developing skills with tools can improve job prospects; some employers may also require a valid driver's license. On-the-job training is common, and a willingness to work flexible hours is beneficial.

What are the most commonly searched types of Contractor jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Contractor jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Contractor Helper jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Contractor Helper job openings:

Infographic showing various Contractor Helper job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 16% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,181 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

$25 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

MEP Helper – Support Multi-Trade HVAC, Plumbing, and Electrical Field Operations


Job Overview

  • Company: On The Mark Management
  • Salary/Pay Rate: $25.00 to $35.00 per hour
  • Location: Chantilly, VA
  • Job/Employment Type: Full Time
  • Project Scope: Commercial


The Opportunity

You will serve as a crucial technical assistant, working directly alongside senior technicians to execute mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) projects. At On The Mark Management, we do not subcontract our trade work—everything is performed in-house. This means you will work daily with experienced, licensed professionals who are eager to teach, mentor, and help you expand your skills across multiple trades, providing a direct pathway to accelerate your career in the commercial construction industry.


How You Will Make an Impact

  • Assist lead technicians in installing, maintaining, and repairing HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems in commercial environments.
  • Prepare job sites by organizing tools, handling raw materials, and setting up staging areas to keep operations running smoothly and efficiently.
  • Perform basic system assembly, pipe-fitting prep, wire pulling, and ductwork installation under direct supervision.
  • Troubleshoot minor mechanical or electrical issues alongside a mentor to build your diagnostic and problem-solving skills.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area, ensuring compliance with OSHA regulations and company safety standards.
  • Operate basic hand and power tools safely while learning to handle specialized trade equipment.
  • Communicate effectively with lead technicians and field supervisors to execute daily work plans precisely.


Required Qualifications & Experience

  • Foundational experience or exposure to at least one MEP trade (HVAC, plumbing, or electrical systems).
  • Ability to safely handle standard construction hand and power tools.
  • Strong physical stamina, including the ability to lift heavy materials and work in active construction environments.
  • High school diploma or GED equivalent.
  • Valid Driver's License and a clean driving record.
  • Absolute reliability, punctuality, and a strong work ethic.


Preferred Qualifications & Experience

  • Prior hands-on experience as an assistant or helper on commercial construction or renovation sites.
  • Broad, introductory knowledge across all three MEP disciplines (multi-trade exposure).
  • Basic familiarity with safety protocols, including lift operation or OSHA guidelines.


Compensation & Benefits

  • Hourly pay rate of $25.00 to $35.00 per hour (based on experience).
  • 401(k) retirement savings program with employer matching.
  • Bi-weekly pay cycle with potential for overtime.
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
  • Paid time off including holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
  • Safety and technical certifications (OSHA, Fall Protection, Lift operation).
  • Uniforms provided.
  • Regular company events and hands-on career mentorship.


About Us

On The Mark Management is an established general construction firm specializing in commercial projects. Because we perform all trades in-house rather than fragmenting work across subcontractors, our team enjoys unrivaled consistency, strong internal teamwork, and a supportive learning environment. We believe in continuous development and actively invest in helping our helpers grow into the next generation of trade leaders. Learn more at Onthemarkmanagement.com.


On The Mark Management is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender expression, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), political affiliation, military service, or any other status protected by law or regulations. It is our intention that all qualified applicants be given equal opportunity and that selection decisions be based on job-related factors.