---
title: "How to Get a Construction Job With No Experience"
description: "How to get hired in construction with no experience: entry-level roles, the OSHA 10, tools and boots to bring, where jobs are posted and first-week tips."
url: https://shapemycareer.com/guides/getting-hired-in-construction/
updated: 2026-10-11
site: ShapeMyCareer
---

Guides · Getting hired

# Getting hired in construction

Your first job site, start to finish.

First job

Construction hires people with no experience every day. Showing up prepared is most of what separates the people who get called back.

In short

To get a construction job with no experience, apply for laborer, helper or apprentice roles; get an OSHA 10 card; have your own work boots and basic hand tools; and show you are reliable. Contractors, staffing agencies, union halls and apprenticeship programs all hire beginners. A valid driver's license and reliable transportation help a lot, because job sites move and start early.

**Sources checked October 11, 2026** Pay, training and outlook come from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay is the middle (median) figure nationally; your first paycheck in the trade will usually be lower.

Step 1

### Get the OSHA 10

Many sites ask for it. See [OSHA 10](https://shapemycareer.com/certifications/osha-10/).

Step 2

### Gear up

Safety-toe boots, gloves, safety glasses and a tape measure at minimum.

Step 3

### Apply in several places

Contractors, staffing agencies, union apprenticeship programs and pre-apprenticeship programs.

Step 4

### Show up early, every day

Reliability is the top thing foremen look for.

Step 5

### Ask about apprenticeship

Many helpers move into apprenticeships after proving themselves.

## Entry-level roles

- Construction laborer
- Electrician's or plumber's helper
- Carpenter's helper
- Flagger
- Material handler

### Want training first?

Tell us your trade and ZIP and we will send programs nearby.

[Find training near me](#smc-form)

## Straight answers

### Can I get a construction job with no experience?

Yes. Laborer and helper jobs are entry-level.

### What should I bring on day one?

Boots, gloves, safety glasses, a tape measure and lunch. Ask what else the foreman expects.

### Do I need my own tools?

Usually basic hand tools. The employer provides power tools and equipment.

## Where this comes from

- [OSHA Outreach Training Program (10 and 30 hour)](https://www.osha.gov/training/outreach)
- [Apprenticeship.gov, U.S. Department of Labor](https://www.apprenticeship.gov/)

## Keep looking

- [OSHA 10](https://shapemycareer.com/certifications/osha-10/)
- [How to get in](https://shapemycareer.com/apprenticeships/how-to-get-an-apprenticeship/)
- [Pre-apprenticeship](https://shapemycareer.com/apprenticeships/pre-apprenticeship/)
- [Guides](https://shapemycareer.com/guides/)
- [CDL school cost](https://shapemycareer.com/guides/cdl-school-cost/)
- [Electrician vs plumber](https://shapemycareer.com/guides/electrician-vs-plumber/)
- [Equipment school](https://shapemycareer.com/guides/heavy-equipment-operator-school/)
- [Welding school length](https://shapemycareer.com/guides/how-long-is-welding-school/)

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