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Entry Level Construction Laborer Jobs in Columbus, MS

Entry Level Construction Laborer information

See Columbus, MS salary details

$9

$16

$23

How much do entry level construction laborer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level construction laborer in Columbus, MS is $16.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.61 and $17.45 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level construction laborer?

To thrive as an Entry Level Construction Laborer, you need basic knowledge of construction practices, physical stamina, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand and power tools, as well as adherence to OSHA safety guidelines, is typically required. Strong work ethic, teamwork, and the ability to follow instructions make someone stand out in this position. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient project completion and smooth site operations.

What is a typical entry-level job for a construction laborer?

A typical entry-level construction laborer performs tasks such as loading and unloading materials, assisting skilled workers, and maintaining a clean work site. They often operate basic tools, follow safety protocols, and may need a high school diploma or equivalent; physical fitness and the ability to work outdoors are important. On-the-job training is common, and some positions may require OSHA safety certification.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level construction laborers, and how can they be addressed?

Entry level construction laborers often encounter challenges such as adapting to physically demanding work, learning to use various tools safely, and understanding site-specific safety protocols. Adjusting to early start times and working in varying weather conditions can also be difficult at first. These challenges can be managed by maintaining good physical fitness, actively participating in safety training, and seeking guidance from experienced coworkers. Over time, laborers develop skills and confidence, making the work more manageable and opening up opportunities for advancement.

What is the easiest entry level construction laborer job to get into?

Entry level construction laborer jobs are generally accessible with minimal experience and often do not require specialized skills or certifications. These roles typically involve basic tasks such as site cleanup, material handling, and assisting skilled workers, making them among the easiest construction positions to obtain for newcomers.

What is the difference between Entry Level Construction Laborer vs Construction Apprentice?

AspectEntry Level Construction LaborerConstruction Apprentice
CredentialsNo formal certifications required; on-the-job trainingOften requires basic OSHA safety training; may be enrolled in apprenticeship programs
Work EnvironmentActive construction sites, physical laborActive sites with structured training, mentorship
Employer UsageCommon entry point for construction companiesTraining role, often sponsored by unions or contractors
Search IntentEntry level construction jobs, laborer rolesTraining, apprenticeship, entry-level construction

In summary, Entry Level Construction Laborers perform basic physical tasks on construction sites with minimal formal requirements, while Construction Apprentices are in a structured training program, gaining skills and certifications for future roles in construction.

What does an entry level construction laborer do?

As an entry-level construction laborer, your job is to follow instructions from a supervisor and help build or construct something. Residential and commercial facilities are the most popular type of project, but in this career, you may also lay pipes, fix roads, or perform a variety of other tasks. In this role, you may use heavy equipment to transport materials to the worksite, load and unload vehicles, use a variety of construction tools, and otherwise aid the construction process. As an entry-level worker, your primary job is to learn more about how to do your job, and many employers use this as a type of extended training phase.

What are the most commonly searched types of Construction Laborer jobs in Columbus, MS? The most popular types of Construction Laborer jobs in Columbus, MS are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Construction Laborer jobs in Columbus, MS? For Entry Level Construction Laborer jobs in Columbus, MS, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Construction Laborer jobs in Columbus, MS look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Construction Laborer jobs in Columbus, MS are:
What cities near Columbus, MS are hiring for Entry Level Construction Laborer jobs? Cities near Columbus, MS with the most Entry Level Construction Laborer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Construction Laborer job openings in Columbus, MS as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,748 per year, or $16.7 per hour.

Refractory Installation Laborer - Entry Level

Minerals Technologies

Columbus, MS • On-site

$15.75 - $19.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Minerals Technologies Inc. is a global, technology-driven specialty minerals company that develops, produces, and markets a wide range of minerals and mineral-based products and services.

Our products are an essential part of everyday life for millions of people around the world. They are used in consumer goods in paper and packaging, food and pharmaceuticals, household and personal care, pet care, automotives, and many more, as well as in industrial settings like steelmaking, metalcasting, construction, infrastructure, and wastewater remediation.

We are listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol MTX, headquartered in New York City, and have over 150 locations worldwide, with ~4,000 employees in 34 countries and 12 R&D centers.

We put people at the center of everything we do -- working safely, communicating openly, and managing our resources and businesses responsibly.

CompanyMinteq, a Minerals Technologies company, is the global leader in designing and delivering advanced technological solutions for a multitude of industrial applications. From design and installation to the maintenance of customized solutions, we provide truly turnkey solutions that help our partners increase productivity, enhance yields, reduce downtime, and lower overall costs. 

Position: Steel Mill Laborer

Location: USA | Columbus, MS

What We Offer:

  • Competitive pay, commensurate with experience
  • Health/Dental/Vision plans
  • 401k company match
  • Life Insurance
  • Short Term Disability & Long-Term Disability
  • Educational Assistance
  • Employee Assistance Plan
 

This is considered a safety sensitive position therefore will be subject to random drug testing as required.


Major Duties & Responsibilities

  • Apply material (product) and use all relevant equipment as required
  • Follow all standard operating procedures regarding equipment and applications of product
  • Operate equipment and perform basic maintenance
  • Maintain all equipment in working order, with clean appearance
  • Maintain a strong focus on satisfying the customer
  • Maintain a positive profile with the customer

OE/Lean

  • Actively participates in the implementation of sustainable improvement processes, such as 5S, Kaizen, Total Productive Maintenance (TPM), Daily Management Control, Standard Work and Problem Solving.

Note: Management reserves the right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.


Education: High School Diploma or Equivalent. Must have ability to speak and read English. 

Knowledge: Six months experience in Steel Mill Service, previous steel-making or other related experience.  Mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, or hydraulic experience.  Basic knowledge of Company products, applications and equipment. 

Skills & Abilities: Communication, interpersonal, adaptability, ability to learn quickly, initiative, integrity, customer and quality focus, judgment/problem-solving, safety awareness. 


Physical: Ability to lift up to 50 pounds (or more in certain shops). Must be able to withstand the physical pressures of constant standing, walking, bending, climbing, kneeling, crouching, reaching, sitting, extremes of hot and cold, as well as carrying, lifting, pushing and pulling heavy objects.

General: May require working rotating shifts, emergency call outs, and overtime. Must wear all required safety gear. May be requested to travel.  Valid Driver's license required. 

Federal Applicant Information