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Public Works Laborer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

... 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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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.

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 ...

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 ...

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Public Works Laborer information

See Michigan salary details

$9

$16

$24

How much do public works laborer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 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.

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:

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.

$52K - $78K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Description The Department of Public Works seeks a dedicated Public Works Worker to join our Public Works team. This full-time union role involves the safe and efficient operation of various tools and equipment to perform construction and maintenance tasks on public infrastructure. The position requires effective communication, the ability to work independently or with supervision, and a commitment to public service excellence.

Location On-site at designated public works facilities Experience No specific experience required; relevant skills and qualifications are essential Skills Proficiency with tools and light equipment used in public works Effective communication and interpersonal skills Ability to interpret written and verbal instructions Ability to work independently or as part of a team Key Responsibilities Perform construction, maintenance, and repair tasks related to public infrastructure, including roads, water mains, sanitary sewers, and storm sewers. Operate tools and equipment safely and efficiently. Follow safety protocols and work under supervision or independently as needed.

Representative Job Duties Works on a maintenance crew that performs installation, maintenance, repair, and removal of the following: water main, water meters, water service lines, fire hydrants, gate valves, sanitary sewer main, sanitary sewer lines, gate wells, sewer manholes, storm sewer lines, and catch basins. Restores damaged landscape areas due to excavations and other damage. Performs maintenance and repair to all the city's sanitary and storm sewer lift stations.

Conducts various aspects of street maintenance and construction including, but not limited to, salting, snow plowing & removal; asphalt paving and pothole patching; concrete curb, sidewalk, structure, and pavement repair and paving; road right of way mowing and maintenance; removal of dead animals from streets and right of ways, utility locating; sign installation; proper use of barricades and road closure equipment, etc. Responsible for various maintenance tasks in carpentry and general maintenance and construction work. Learns equipment operation and terminology of materials used in various aspects of the job.

Performs a combination of the following duties: erecting & repairing guard rails, highway markers and snow fences, using hand tools, nails, and power tools. Participates in training when required. Maintains daily activity and inventory records in the City's computerized asset management system OpenGov EAM.

Adheres to all safety standards for the operation and maintenance of all City owned equipment. Other duties as assigned. Job Requirements - As Determined By the City Of Southfield High school diploma or equivalent Valid driver's license Class A CDL with tanker and airbrakes endorsements within 12 months of employment.

Newly hired employees must pass a 6-month probationary period. If the employee does not acquire his or her CDL Class A with Tanker and Airbrakes Endorsements within the 6-months probationary period, their probationary period will be extended by an additional 6 months. If the individual has not acquired his or her CDL Class A with Tanker and Airbrake Endorsements after the first 12 months of employment, the individual may be terminated.

Supplemental Information The Public Works Worker will be classified based on the following criteria: Public Works Worker I Pay grade 312 (Range: $52,417.02 - $78,547.40) 0 years of relevant experience required at hire. Public Works Worker II Pay grade 313 (Range: $55,038.47 - $82,474.66) At least 4 years of relevant experience and S-4 license at hire. Must demonstrate proficiency with select Public Works tasks and equipment

Public Works Worker III Pay grade 314 (Range: $57,789.96 - $86,598.61) At least 7 years of relevant experience and S-3 license at hire. Must demonstrate proficiency with vast majority of Public Works tasks and equipment.