ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Public Works Laborer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Village of Oxford

Be Seen First

Public Works Laborer

Oxford, MI · On-site

$25.01/hr

The Village of Oxford is seeking qualified applicants for a regular full-time Department of Public Works Laborer. The starting wage is $25.01. Benefits include health, dental and optical coverage and ...

City of Livonia, MI

Seasonal Laborer

Livonia, MI · On-site

$17/hr

Department of Public Works, City of Livonia, MI Job Type: Seasonal Job Number: N/A Department ... Perform manual labor for extended periods, often under adverse conditions * Work independently ...

City of Livonia

Seasonal Laborer

Livonia, MI

$17/hr

... labor work. Typical examples are: cutting grass, laying sod, planting flowers and weeding beds ... Work methods and equipment involved in public works construction and maintenance Mechanics and ...

City of Oak Park

Public Service Worker I

Oak Park, MI · On-site

$24.67 - $29.80/hr

Ability to perform manual labor for extended periods of time * Ability to understand and follow both written and oral instructions * Knowledge of use of equipment and tools used in Public Works ...

City of Oak Park

Public Service Worker I

Oak Park, MI · On-site

$24.66 - $29.80/hr

Ability to perform manual labor for extended periods of time * Ability to understand and follow both written and oral instructions * Knowledge of use of equipment and tools used in Public Works ...

City of Oak Park

Public Service Worker I

Oak Park, MI · On-site

$24.66 - $29.80/hr

Ability to perform manual labor for extended periods of timeAbility to understand and follow both written and oral instructionsKnowledge of use of equipment and tools used in Public Works practices ...

City of Ferndale

Seasonal Laborer

Ferndale, MI · On-site

$15 - $18.50/hr

Other Public Works duties will be assigned, as needed. QUALIFICATIONS Must have a valid state of MI driver's license, must have a good driving record; must be able to pass a physical and drug screen.

City of Ferndale

Seasonal Parks Laborer

Ferndale, MI · On-site

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

The Department of Public Works and Parks and Recreation for looking for two seasonal employees to help staff our brand new splash pad and assist in the day to day maintenance of the City Parks. This ...

City of Ferndale

Seasonal Parks Laborer

Ferndale, MI · On-site

$18/hr

The Department of Public Works and Parks and Recreation for looking for two seasonal employees to help staff our brand new splash pad and assist in the day to day maintenance of the City Parks. This ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPublic Works Laborer JobsPublic Works Laborer Jobs in Michigan

Public Works Laborer information

See Michigan salary details

$9

$16

$24

How much do public works laborer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for public works laborer in Michigan is $16.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.98 and $17.79 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.
More about Public Works Laborer jobs
What are popular job titles related to Public Works Laborer jobs in Michigan? For Public Works Laborer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Public Works Laborer jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Public Works Laborer jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Public Works Laborer jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Public Works Laborer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Public Works Laborer jobs in MI? For Public Works Laborer jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Public Works Laborer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Works Laborer job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,515 per year, or $16.1 per hour.

Public Works Laborer

Village of Oxford

Oxford, MI • On-site

$25.01/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

The Village of Oxford is seeking qualified applicants for a regular full-time Department of Public Works Laborer. The starting wage is $25.01. Benefits include health, dental and optical coverage and employer contribution to a Defined Contribution pension plan administered by MERS of Michigan. DPW personnel are required to perform a broad range of manual labor and semi-skilled maintenance functions including:

1. Various tasks related to street maintenance such as pothole patching, snow removal, line painting and possibly street sweeping.

2. Respond, as a crew member, to water system emergencies such as main breaks. Performs routine water system tasks such as meter reading and hydrant and valve exercising.

3. Perform tasks related to the sewage and drainage system ranging from jetting to catch basin rebuilding.

4. Operate lawn mowing equipment and perform ground maintenance duties such as tree trimming, weeding, pruning, planting, painting and general upkeep of grounds.

5. Performs building maintenance tasks ranging from general custodial to minor plumbing, electrical and carpentry repairs.

6. Grease and oil machinery and perform equipment maintenance and repair.

7. Operate equipment and power tools such as roadway mower, dump truck, snowplow, and jack hammer. May also operate street sweeper, front end loader, or other heavy equipment as directed.

Required Essential Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Graduation from an accredited high school or obtained a G.E.D.

• One year of experience in construction, building maintenance or operation of public works equipment.

• Knowledge of safety procedures and precautions involved in equipment operation and maintenance work.

• Knowledge of the tools, materials and equipment used in the repair and maintenance of buildings, grounds, and infrastructure systems.

• Skill in the operation of assigned vehicles, equipment, and power tools.

• Ability to complete duties 1 - 7.

• Ability to hear the operation of mechanical equipment and to respond to emergencies.

• Ability to work effectively with others.

• Ability to complete written report forms of a limited nature.

• Ability to lift moderate to heavily weighted items on a regular basis.

• Ability to enter and work in spaces which require the use of ladders and allow for limited movements.

• Ability to perform custodial and maintenance tasks at ground level, desktop, shoulder level, and over head heights.

• Mechanical aptitude and physical coordination required to operate tools and equipment.

• Physical ability to perform a broad range of laborer, maintenance, and repair functions often in an environment of extreme heat, cold or dampness.

Applicant must have a valid Michigan driver’s license with a CDL Class-B endorsement or be able to obtain one within the prescribed timeframe and be able to pass a pre-employment physical examination.