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Public Works Laborer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

City of Davis, CA

Public Works Inspector I/II

Davis, CA · On-site

$76K - $101K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

Conducts labor compliance interviews. * Reviews and enforces public works permits; makes inspections of utility companies and contractors performing work in the public right of way; ensures ...

CWS Construction Group

CA · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Requirements: - Minimum of five (5) years experience in Public works. - Experience in supervising carpentry and laborer crews. - Maintain detailed and accurate daily logs. - Ability to supervise ...

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All JobsPublic Works Laborer JobsPublic Works Laborer Jobs in California

Public Works Laborer information

See California salary details

$10

$18

$27

How much do public works laborer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for public works laborer in California is $18.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.71 and $20.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Public Works Laborer vs Maintenance Worker?

AspectPublic Works LaborerMaintenance Worker
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require CDL or safety certificationsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications vary by specialization
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, construction sites, city infrastructure projectsIndoor and outdoor, facilities, equipment, and building maintenance
Employer & Industry UsageMunicipal government, public works departmentsPublic and private sector facilities, property management
Common Search & Comparison IntentPublic Works Laborer vs Maintenance WorkerPublic Works Laborer vs Maintenance Worker

The Public Works Laborer and Maintenance Worker roles often overlap in outdoor work and basic manual tasks. However, Public Works Laborers typically focus on city infrastructure projects, construction, and public service tasks, while Maintenance Workers handle building repairs, equipment upkeep, and facility maintenance. Both roles require similar certifications and work environments, but their specific duties and employer settings differ.

What are some common challenges faced by public works laborers and how can they be addressed?

Public Works Laborers often encounter challenges such as working outdoors in varying weather conditions, handling physically demanding tasks, and adapting to different types of public infrastructure projects. To address these challenges, it's important to prioritize safety by wearing appropriate gear, staying hydrated, and following established protocols. Teamwork and clear communication with supervisors and colleagues also help ensure tasks are completed efficiently and safely. Additionally, ongoing training in equipment operation and maintenance can help laborers stay effective and reduce workplace risks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a public works laborer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Public Works Laborer, you need physical stamina, basic mechanical skills, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand and power tools, safety protocols, and sometimes a commercial driver's license (CDL) are typically required. Reliability, teamwork, and attention to detail are important soft skills that help ensure tasks are completed efficiently and safely. These abilities are essential for maintaining public infrastructure, adhering to safety standards, and supporting the overall effectiveness of municipal services.

What does a public works laborer do?

The duties of a public works laborer include various manual labor tasks in a city. In this career, you operate power tools and equipment like air compressors, chainsaws, and lawn mowers, as well as heavy machinery like backhoes and cranes. Common jobs you may work as a public works laborer include maintaining or building roads, parks, sewage systems, and more. Most positions require the use of company vehicles. Depending on your specialization or department, your duties may revolve around cleaning, repairing, or installing public structures.

What is a public works laborer?

Public Works Laborers are workers employed by local, state, or federal government agencies to maintain and repair public infrastructure. Their duties typically include tasks such as road maintenance, sidewalk repairs, landscaping, sanitation, and assisting with construction projects. They may also be responsible for operating various machinery, cleaning public spaces, and ensuring the safety and cleanliness of community areas. Public Works Laborers play a crucial role in keeping cities and towns functioning smoothly and safely for residents.
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What cities in California are hiring for Public Works Laborer jobs?

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Public Works Laborer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Works Laborer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,949 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Laborer (Temporary) - Public Works

City of Whittier, ,CA

Whittier, CA • On-site

$17.09 - $18.84/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Salary: $17.09 - $18.84 Hourly
Location : Whittier, CA
Job Type: Part-Time
Job Number: 2023-018
Department: Public Works
Opening Date: 05/02/2023
Closing Date: Continuous
Description
Under supervision, this position assists in the City's Public Works Department
This is a part-time position not to exceed 28 hours of work per week
Benefits
This position does not receive fringe benefits. Pursuant to Federal law, employees in this position make contributions to a Deferred Compensation Retirement Program that are refundable, with any accrued interest, upon retirement or separation.
Examples of Duties
Outline of Duties
Performs general and labor intensive maintenance tasks including painting, shoveling, hoeing, raking and sweeping; maintain equipment used in the course of work; maintenance and repair of various buildings, grounds, streets and structures; general clean-up duties and work on special projects as assigned.
Typical Qualifications
Education & Experience: No minimum requirements.
Special Requirement: Possession of or ability to obtain and maintain a valid Class C California driver's license and a satisfactory driving record may be required for some assignments.
Medical: Candidates will be required, as a prerequisite to employment, to successfully pass a physical examination, including a back x-ray, the cost of which will be paid by the City. Depending on assignment, a drug screen may be included as part of the physical examination.
Prior to hire, candidates must pass a background/reference investigation, including a fingerprint check, and will be required to submit proof of U.S. Citizenship or employment authorization if not a U.S. Citizen.
The City of Whittier encourages applications from qualified individuals with disabilities as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act and California Fair Employment and Housing Act. Individuals who require accommodation in the testing process should contact the Human Resources staff at least 5 days prior to the testing process so that a reasonable accommodation may be made. Persons requesting a reasonable accommodation will be required to provide documentation of such need. Seeking or receiving an accommodation by the City will have no negative impact on an individual's application or employment.
Supplemental Information
Selection Process
Based on a review of the applications received, the candidates appearing to be the most qualified and meeting the City's particular needs will be invited to an interview. Candidates will be notified by telephone to schedule an interview appointment.
Employees in this position are at-will, serving at the pleasure of the City and may resign or may be terminated at any time without cause or the right of appeal.
The City of Whittier is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
The provisions of this announcement do not constitute an expressed or implied contract and any provisions contained in this announcement may be modified or revoked without notice.
This is an hourly position. Benefits are not included. The City does pay the employee portion for Medicare. Pursuant to Federal law, employees in this position make contributions to a Deferred Compensation Retirement Program that are refundable, with any accrued interest, upon retirement or separation.

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