The main responsibility of labourers is to assist a supervisor and carry out instructions accurately.
The work of labourers is largely of a physical nature and varies from one industry to another:
Farm labourers assists in the feeding of animals, ploughing and planting
The food industry employs labourers to assist with a wide variety of kitchen tasks, including cleaning and baking
Labourers may work as assistants or general handymen, under the supervision of qualified tradesmen, where tasks include passing equipment, tending to tools and assisting with the building of structures
Labourers can also be employed to do domestic cleaning inside or outside buildings
A labourer can work in practically every industry in which there are tasks that require physical strength and no other qualification or skills.
Satisfying Aspects
- working with your hands
- using your physical strength
- developing a range of skills
- the possibility of promotion, for example to supervisor level
- the variety of different types of work to choose from
Demanding aspects
- sometimes having to work in bad weather
- working over-time
- doing physically tiring work
- limited promotional prospects, without further education or training
Requirements
A labourer should:
- be in good health;
- have strength and stamina;
- be reliable and have integrity;
- be willing to work outdoors in all types of weather;
- able to follow instructions;
- be able to work independently if required to do so.
School Subjects
No specific requirements.
Compulsory Subjects: None
Recommended Subjects: None
Training
A labourer usually receives in-service training.
Employer
- Farms
- Building industry
- Food industry
- Businesses
- Buildings
- Schools
- Shopping centres
- Hostels
- Care centres
- Hotels
- Trade industry
A labourer can work in practically every industry in which there are tasks which require physical strength and no other qualification or skills.
Contact
Contact the nearest office of the Department of Labour.