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Contractor Helper Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Reside Living

Maintenance Helper A - Local 1

Chicago, IL · On-site

$27.23/hr

Maintenance Helper A (Local 1) * Benefits are through Local 1 Union and the hourly pay for this ... External contacts include vendors, consulting engineers and contractors to ensure contracted ...

Five Star Painting

Paint Contractor

Crystal Lake, IL · On-site

$17.50 - $23.25/hr

If you are a painting contractor interested in working with our dynamic team, please apply today ... Five Star Painting LLC is NOT the employer seeking help. The only employer is the independent ...

Greystar

Union Helper A- 1001 S. State

Chicago, IL

$27.23 - $28/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Union Helper A- 1001 S. State Full time Chicago, Illinois Apply Now Save Job Job saved ABOUT ... vendors and contractors as needed, obtaining needed supplies and materials, completing all ...

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All JobsContractor Helper JobsContractor Helper Jobs in Chicago, IL

Contractor Helper information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$18

$23

How much do contractor helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for contractor helper in Chicago, IL is $18.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.58 and $20.29 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a contractor helper?

To become a contractor helper, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and some experience in construction or manual labor. On-the-job training is common, and basic skills such as physical fitness, teamwork, and familiarity with tools are important. Some employers may require safety certifications or knowledge of safety protocols on construction sites.

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.

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 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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Contractor jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Contractor jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Contractor Helper jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Contractor Helper job openings:

Contractor Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contractor Helper job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 85% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,594 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

Maintenance Helper A - Local 1

Reside Living

Chicago, IL • On-site

$27.23/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Position Overview:
Reports To: Building Engineer
  • Union Position: Maintenance Helper A (Local 1)
  • Benefits are through Local 1 Union and the hourly pay for this position is $27.23
  • Schedule: Tuesday-Saturday 8 AM to 4:30 PM. Sundays and Mondays off.

Additional Perks:
  • Phone Stipend of $50 a month
  • Student Loan Repayment Program $100 a month towards your student loans
  • 25% Apartment Discount after 90 days of employment

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Identify building and residential unit issues, rectify issues as directed by Building Engineer and coordinate access/repairs with third party vendors as needed.
  • Maintain exterior of assigned property(ies) as needed, meeting seasonal needs (e.g. Operating snow removal machines, etc.).
  • Complete resident service requests within specified service level agreements (SLAs) and respond to after-hours calls (when scheduled to do so).
  • Monitor the cleanliness of properties and carry out janitorial services as needed, for instance, assisting with apartment turns.
  • Collaborate with Project Management personnel and other team members to allow access to property(ies) and retail spaces.
  • Schedule preventative maintenance (i.e. HVAC filter replacement, rod sewer lines, etc.) and proactively anticipate maintenance needs around the property(ies).
  • Collaborate with Building Engineer regularly on projects.
  • Assist in custodial work (e.g. sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, emptying trash, cleaning windows, etc.) and grounds work when necessary.
  • Maintain exterior of assigned property(ies) and performs appropriate seasonal tasks (e.g. snow removal).
  • Report any water infiltration or mold and treat with high priority, especially cases where excessive water infiltration and growth are found.
  • Provide exceptional customer service through stellar and regular interactions with residents.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS
  • Maintain open lines of communication with internal and external contacts for continuing operations and resolution of problems. Internal contacts include company personnel and residents. External contacts include vendors, consulting engineers and contractors to ensure contracted services are maintained and performed within the guidelines of company standards.
  • Up-to-date knowledge on work-safety programs and education.
  • Assists Building Engineer in his/her duties.
  • Demonstrates attention to detail, pride in quality of work, and a positive attitude.
  • Possesses ability to work both independently and as part of a team of professionals.
  • Dresses in clean, pressed uniform.
  • Valid driver's license and vehicle required for this position.
  • Required to own and maintain personal smartphone (iPhone or Android) for using our mobile app to perform and document the work performed. A stipend of $50 per month will be provided for use of a personal phone.

QUALIFICATIONS
  • High school education or equivalent.
  • EPA certified or willing to obtain certification within 90 days of hire.
  • Proficiency with computers and technological systems (Outlook, Microsoft Suite, etc.)
  • Minimum of one-year full-time maintenance experience or experience in related field.
  • Preferred knowledge of and experience repairing mechanical systems - plumbing, electric, HVAC, hot water heaters, etc.

WORK HOURS
  • 40 hours per week and overtime as needed. Must have availability to work a flexible schedule any day of the week and on-call for emergencies.

EQUIPMENT/MACHINERY/TOOLS
An employee in this position must be knowledgeable and skilled in the safe use and maintenance of the following:
  • Hand tools: Various wrenches, hammer, grips, saws, sledgehammer, snips, post hole diggers etc.
  • Power tools: Wrenches, grinders, sanders, drills, saws, key machines, etc.
  • User-moved aids: Wheelbarrows, dollies, hand tricks, buckets, hoist, jacks, step ladders, etc.
  • Required to own and maintain personal smartphone (iphone or android) for using our mobile app to perform and document the work performed.

MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT
  • Motors, pumps, compressors, blowers, electric and hand power augers, etc.
  • Measuring devices, calipers, voltmeters, ohmmeters, testing meters, PH tests, gauges, etc.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Constant need (66% to 100% of the time) to be on feet.
  • Finger Dexterity: Handle tools and equipment, perform routine maintenance / repairs. Complete work orders and inspections on mobile device, including typing or speaking notes.
  • Have a constant need (66% to 100% of the time) to perform the following physical activities:
  • Bend/Stoop/Squat/Kneel: Perform routine maintenance/repairs, pick up tools and needed equipment.
  • Climb Stairs: Ability to climb 2 or 3 flights of stairs in order to handle service requests and make-ready needs.
  • Push or Pull: Move equipment, appliances, open and close doors, etc.
  • Reach Above Shoulder: Perform routine maintenance/repairs, stock and remove equipment, parts, etc.
  • Climb Ladders: Perform routine maintenance/repairs.
  • Grasp/Grip/Turning: Handle tools and equipment, perform routine maintenance/repairs.
  • Finger Dexterity: Handle tools and equipment, perform routine maintenance/repairs.
  • Constant need (66% to 100% of the time) to perform the following physical activities:
  • Writing: Inventory maintenance, requisition requests, required maintenance reports.
  • Lifting/carrying (supplies, replacement parts, ladders, etc.)

Over 150 lbs.
Rare need (less than 1% of the time)
75 - 150 lbs.
Occasional need (1% to 33% of the time)
25 75 lbs.
Frequent need (33% to 66% of the time)
1-25 lbs.
Constant need (66% to 100% of the time)
NOTE: Lifting and carrying of weights exceeding 50 lbs. is often accomplished with assistance from one or more persons. Examples of heavy items lifted include washer, dryers, refrigerators, A/C units, abandoned furniture, etc.
VISION REQUIREMENTS
  • Constant need (66% to 100% of the time) to document maintenance and complete forms, review manuals and operating instructions, read cautionary labels, respond to written instruction from staff and residents. Constant need to see small detail when performing routine maintenance duties.
  • Frequent need (33% to 60% of the time) to see things clearly beyond arm's reach (oversee assistants, observe problems throughout the property).
  • Constant need to read and input data on a mobile device.

HEARING REQUIREMENTS
  • Constant need (66% to 100% of the time) to communicate with assistants, resident staff, vendors and residents. Must use listening skills to diagnose needed repairs, etc.

SPEAKING REQUIREMENTS
  • Constant need (66% to 100% of the time) to verbally communicate with assistants, resident staff, vendors and residents.

DRIVING/TRAVELING REQUIREMENTS
  • Emergency calls may occasionally require expedient travel to assigned property at moment's notice.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT
  • Indoors (66% to 100% of the lime); frequently outdoors (33% to 66% of the time), all conditions, often for extended periods.
  • Occasional exposure (1% to 33% of time) to paint fumes, solvents, adhesives, etc. Example: Vacant unit turn over.
  • Frequent need (33% to 66% of the time) to work in awkward and confining positions.

REASONING DEVELOPMENT
  • Must be able to apply principles of logical thinking to define problems, collect pertinent data, establish facts, draw valid conclusions and initiate appropriate course of action. Must effectively convey ideas, images and goals to diverse group of personalities.

Reside Living is committed to conducting all employment practices for employees at all levels without regard to race, creed, genetic characteristics, gender, color, religion, sex, national origin or ancestry, age, mental or physical disability, marital status, sexual orientation, veteran/military status, gender identity/status, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, or any other characteristic protected by applicable state, federal or local laws, except where a bona fide occupational requirement exists.

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