Where to search for concrete jobs near you
Concrete work is posted on the same job boards where you'd find other trades work, but the fastest route is usually a combination of two things: calling concrete contractors directly and checking the platforms where they actually post openings. The main job boards that carry concrete positions are Indeed, ZipRecruiter, and Craigslist (under "gigs" or "jobs"). Facebook Marketplace and local construction Facebook groups also post concrete work regularly, especially smaller jobs and day labor.
If you want to move faster, open Google Maps, search "concrete contractors near me," and call the top five to ten results. Ask if they're hiring or know who is. Concrete contractors often hire through word-of-mouth and referrals before they ever post online, so a direct call can put you ahead of people waiting for a job posting to appear.
Local unions also post openings if you're interested in union concrete work. Search "[your city] concrete union" or "[your state] laborers union" to find the local chapter. Union jobs typically pay more and include benefits, but they usually require you to join the union first, which involves an process process and sometimes an apprenticeship.
Key Takeaways
- Concrete contractors post jobs on Indeed, ZipRecruiter, and Craigslist, but calling contractors directly often finds work faster than waiting for postings.
- Facebook Marketplace and local construction groups frequently list concrete work, especially smaller jobs and temporary positions.
- Google Maps searches for "concrete contractors near me" give you a list of companies to call directly about current or upcoming openings.
- Union concrete work pays more and includes benefits, but requires joining the union first through your local laborers union chapter.
- Day labor and temporary concrete work is often found through labor agencies, Craigslist, and Facebook groups rather than traditional job boards.
What concrete contractors look for when hiring
Most concrete contractors care more about whether you show up on time and work steadily than about formal credentials, especially for entry-level positions. If you have no concrete experience, be honest about that when you call or explore. Many contractors will hire someone with no experience if you're willing to start as a laborer and learn on the job.
A driver's license and reliable transportation matter more than you might think. Concrete jobs move between locations, and if you can't get to the site on time, you won't get called back. If you have a truck or van, mention it — contractors often need people who can haul materials or tools.
Physical fitness is real. Concrete work involves standing, lifting, and repetitive motion for eight to ten hours. If you have a back injury, knee problems, or other physical limitations, be upfront about what you can and can't do. Contractors respect honesty more than they respect someone who quits after two days because the work was harder than expected.
Types of concrete work and where to find each one
Concrete pouring and finishing is the most common entry point. You'll mix concrete, pour it into forms, and smooth or texture the surface. This work is posted on Indeed and ZipRecruiter, but also found through direct calls to contractors. Pay ranges widely by region and experience, but entry-level positions typically start between $16 and $22 per hour.
Concrete demolition and removal is often separate from pouring work. Demolition crews break up old concrete and haul it away. This work is physically demanding and sometimes pays more than pouring. Search "concrete demolition jobs near me" on Indeed or call demolition companies directly. Day labor agencies also frequently post demolition work.
Concrete cutting and grinding requires some training but not years of experience. You use saws and grinders to cut joints, smooth surfaces, or remove coatings. This is more specialized than general concrete work and typically pays more. Search for "concrete cutting" or "concrete grinding" on job boards, or call concrete finishing companies.
Day labor and temporary work is the fastest way to start if you need work when ready. Labor agencies like Labor Ready, Staffmark, and Manpower post same-day concrete work. You show up in the morning, get assigned to a job, and work that day. Pay is usually lower than permanent positions, but you get paid daily and can start within 24 hours.
how the process works and what to bring to the interview
When you call a contractor or respond to a posting, have your phone number, address, and availability ready. Be specific about when you can start and what days you can work. If you're available when ready, say that. Contractors often need people to start within days, not weeks.
If you get an interview or are asked to show up at a job site, bring a valid ID and proof of address (a utility bill or lease works). Some contractors require a background check or drug test before you start, so ask about that when you're hired. Bring work clothes and work boots if you're going to a job site — showing up dressed for work signals that you're serious.
If you have any previous work history, bring references or be ready to give names and phone numbers of past employers or supervisors. If you have no work history, that's okay — many contractors will hire based on a conversation and a willingness to work.
Using job boards and labor agencies effectively
On Indeed and ZipRecruiter, search "concrete" and filter by distance from your location. Set the radius to 25 or 50 miles depending on how far you're willing to travel. Save your search and turn on job alerts so new postings come to your email. Check your email daily — concrete jobs fill fast, sometimes within hours of posting.
On Craigslist, go to your local site, click "gigs" or "jobs," and search "concrete." Craigslist moves quickly and has a lot of same-day and temporary work. Be cautious of postings that seem too good to be true or ask for money upfront. Legitimate concrete contractors don't charge you to work.
Labor agencies like Labor Ready and Staffmark have physical locations in most cities. Walk in, fill out a form, and you can be assigned work the same day or next morning. The pay is lower than direct hire, but the barrier to entry is almost zero. If you need work this week, a labor agency is often the fastest route.
Networking and getting repeat work
Once you land a concrete job, the best way to find the next one is to do good work and ask the contractor if they have more jobs coming up. Concrete contractors often have multiple projects running at once, and if you're reliable, they'll call you back before they post a job online.
Tell your coworkers you're looking for work. Construction workers talk to each other, and word-of-mouth referrals are how most concrete jobs get filled. If someone on your crew knows another contractor hiring, they'll mention it if you've been straightforward to work with.
Join local construction or trades Facebook groups and post that you're looking for concrete work. Many groups have rules against spam, so read the group guidelines first, but most allow members to post that they're seeking work. People in these groups often know contractors personally and can refer you directly.
Understanding pay and work conditions
Concrete work pay varies by region, experience, and type of work. Entry-level concrete labor in most areas starts between $16 and $22 per hour. Experienced concrete finishers and specialists can earn $25 to $40 per hour or more. Union concrete work typically pays significantly more, sometimes $30 to $50 per hour depending on the local union scale.
Most concrete work is seasonal in colder climates — work slows down in winter and picks up in spring and summer. If you're in a cold region, expect fewer hours in winter and more in summer. Some contractors lay off workers in winter; others move to indoor concrete work or smaller projects.
Concrete work is usually full-time once you're hired, typically 40 to 50 hours per week. Day labor and temporary work is usually 8 to 10 hours per day, and you may not get work every day. Ask about the schedule when you're hired so you know what to expect.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a license or certification to do concrete work?
No license is required for most entry-level concrete work. Some specialized work like concrete cutting or decorative concrete may require certification, but contractors will tell you if that's needed for the job. Many contractors will train you on the job as you go.
What if I have no construction experience?
Concrete contractors hire people with no experience regularly, especially for laborer positions. Be honest about your experience level when you explore or call. Show up on time, work hard, and ask questions — that's usually enough to get hired and keep getting called back.
How quickly can I start working?
Day labor agencies can put you to work the same day or next morning. Direct hire positions usually start within a few days to a week. Some contractors need people when ready and will hire on the spot if you show up ready to work.
Is concrete work dangerous?
Concrete work has physical risks — heavy lifting, repetitive strain, and exposure to dust and chemicals. Wear proper safety gear including steel-toed boots, gloves, and a dust mask when needed. Ask the contractor about safety requirements and equipment before you start.
Can I do concrete work part-time?
Most concrete jobs are full-time, but day labor and temporary work through agencies can be part-time or as-needed. Some smaller contractors may have part-time positions, especially during busy seasons. Call contractors directly and ask if they have part-time openings.