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Entry Level Public Works Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Public Works Laborer

Ferndale, WA · On-site

$5.1K - $6.1K/mo

Description The Public Works Laborer is an entry level position which performs a variety of manual labor in the construction, maintenance, and service work of all public works facilities, including ...

Public Works Laborer

WA · On-site

$5.1K - $6.1K/mo

Public Works Opening Date: 07/29/2026 Closing Date: 8/21/2026 11:59 PM Pacific Description The Public Works Laborer is an entry level position which performs a variety of manual labor in the ...

Public Works Inspector I/II

Davis, CA · On-site

$76K - $101K/yr

This is the entry-level classification in the Public Works Inspector series. Initially under close supervision, incumbents learn and perform routine construction inspection work. As experience is ...

Public Works Apprentice- NBPT

Carrollton, TX · On-site

$15.25 - $19.75/hr

JOB TITLE: Public Works Apprentice DEPARTMENT/DIVISION: Various REPORTS TO: Varies SUMMARY ... Performs routine cleaning and grounds maintenance activities at water pump stations. Entry level ...

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Entry Level Public Works information

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$12

$24

$44

How much do entry level public works jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level public works in the United States is $24.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level public works employee?

To thrive as an Entry Level Public Works employee, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic construction or maintenance knowledge, and a willingness to learn on the job. Familiarity with hand and power tools, safety equipment, and sometimes a valid driver’s license or commercial driving certification are commonly required. Dependability, teamwork, and communication skills are vital soft skills for success in this role. These competencies ensure tasks are performed safely, efficiently, and collaboratively, supporting the effective maintenance of public infrastructure.

What do entry level public works employees do?

As an Entry Level Public Works employee, you can expect to assist with a variety of tasks that support the maintenance and improvement of public infrastructure. Your daily responsibilities may include repairing roads, maintaining parks, cleaning public spaces, and assisting with the setup of community events. You’ll often work outdoors as part of a team, collaborating with more experienced staff and learning about equipment operation and safety protocols. This role provides valuable hands-on experience and can serve as a stepping stone to advanced positions within the public works department.

What is the difference between Entry Level Public Works vs Entry Level Civil Engineering Assistant?

AspectEntry Level Public WorksEntry Level Civil Engineering Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require relevant certificationsHigh school diploma; some positions may prefer coursework in engineering or related fields
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, construction sites, municipal facilitiesOffice settings, field inspections, project sites
Employer & Industry UsageMunicipal governments, public agencies, construction firmsEngineering firms, government agencies, consulting companies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Public Works roles typically involve fieldwork and maintenance tasks within municipal or public sector settings, often requiring certifications or relevant experience. Entry Level Civil Engineering Assistants focus more on supporting engineering projects, with some roles requiring coursework in engineering. Both roles are common starting points in the public infrastructure industry, but they differ mainly in work environment and specific credentials.

What is an entry level public works job?

Entry Level Public Works jobs are positions within government or municipal agencies focused on maintaining and improving public infrastructure and services. These roles often include tasks such as sanitation, road maintenance, water and sewage management, and supporting construction projects. Entry level positions typically require minimal prior experience and may involve on-the-job training. They offer a starting point for individuals interested in public service, infrastructure, or community improvement. Working in public works can lead to career advancement as you gain experience and additional certifications.
More about Entry Level Public Works jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Public Works jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Public Works job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Public Works jobs? The most popular types of Public Works jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Public Works jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Public Works jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Public Works jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Public Works jobs are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Public Works job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,420 per year, or $24.2 per hour.

Public Works Laborer

Ferndale, City of (WA)

Ferndale, WA • On-site

$5.1K - $6.1K/mo

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Description The Public Works Laborer is an entry level position which performs a variety of manual labor in the construction, maintenance, and service work of all public works facilities, including water, sewer, streets and maintenance. Operates hand and power tools and some motorized equipment. Usually works as part of an assigned crew assisting Utility Workers but may carry out individual or specialized assignment.

Examples of Duties Shovels, rakes, picks, cleans, hammers, sands, and other such manual labor. Assists Utility Workers in: cuts, fits, lays, connects, installs, repairs various sizes of water or sewer lines, installs valves, tees, crosses, reducers, sleeves, etc. per instructions.

Uses hand tools and operates drills, jackhammer, sewer rodding machines, mowers, weed eaters, torches, pavement grinder, etc. Reads meters, turns on or shuts off water services to customers per work orders according to established procedures. Works with traffic control devices including barricades, flags, signs, buttons and performs other safety related duties.

Works with asphalt, crack sealing, concrete, gravel, tree removal, building constructions and all areas of public works. Logs information, completes work orders and paperwork as necessary Typical Qualifications One year of building, craft, trade, or other public works related construction and equipment operator experience with good team work and communications skills. Expected to have a working knowledge of machinery operation, concrete work, asphalt placement and patching, and water and sewer pipeline systems and building maintenance.

Completion of high school (diploma or G.E.D.), or its equivalent. Supplemental Information Work is performed indoors and outdoors during all weather conditions during daylight hours and at night, in emergencies. The work is in a high risk environment which requires special safety precautions including: possible contact with human waste and blood borne pathogens, and prolonged physical efforts in confined spaces

Emergency service call-out may involve floods, snow removal, or emergency repairs to streets, parks, water and sewer system, and other locations in all weather conditions with proximity to traffic, heavy operating equipment and other hazards. Valid Washington Driver's License and a safe driving record. Physical ability to perform essential functions of the job.

Also must pass job related physical capacities evaluation at time of hire.