Skilled Laborer

Ballard Marine Construction is a specialty marine and underwater contractor based in Washougal, WA, with regional offices and projects throughout North America. You’ll work on amazing technical projects with a team that values excellence, accountability, and camaraderie. If you thrive in a culture of grit, respect, and ownership, this could be the right fit.

About the role

The Skilled Laborer supports skilled craft personnel by assisting with essential construction tasks required to successfully complete projects. This position involves the safe operation of both hand tools and power tools, as well as performing rigging duties for crane and forklift operations. The role also includes deck hand responsibilities such as working on or near water, tying off dock lines, and operating small vessels, including crew boats.

Ideal Candidate

• Grit and Resiliency – We dig deep to figure out how to make things happen no matter how impossible it seems. We never give up.
• Comradery and Inspirational – We are a hard-working team of likeminded individuals working toward a common goal. We celebrate wins and have fun together.
• Driven and Competitive – We love to win and learn from losses. Not getting the job done is not an option.
• Trustworthy and Respectful – We value honesty, authenticity, and transparency. No lies, drama, or politics.
• Ownership and Accountability – We look inward first when something goes wrong and share lessons learned.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Valid driver’s license
• Authorized to work in the United States
• Experience and proficiency working with standard laborer tools (e.g., sledgehammers, shovels, brooms, vacuums, pressure washers, hand tools)
• Boat operation and barge experience preferred
• Carpentry skills preferred
• Prior general/skilled labor experience a plus
• Concrete experience preferred
• Experience rigging for cranes and forklifts

Skills

• Honest, trustworthy, dependable, and punctual
• Safety-first attitude with strict adherence to safety procedures
• Professional and courteous demeanor
• Ability to work under time constraints and adapt to change
• Strong teamwork and communication skills
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions

Responsibilities

• Operate and care for construction equipment and machines
• Prepare construction sites by cleaning obstacles and hazards
• Load, unload, and distribute building materials, machinery, or tools according to project plans
• Measure, mark, or record openings or distances for construction layouts
• Dig ditches or trenches, backfill excavations, and compact/level earth to grade specifications
• Mix, pour, or spread concrete using portable cement mixers
• Operate pumps, compressors, or generators to power tools, machinery, or move materials
• Erect or dismantle scaffolding, shoring, braces, traffic barricades, ramps, or other temporary structures
• Sweep and clean the project site
• Carry lumber and supplies to carpenters and assist with assembling concrete forms
• Assist welders as needed
• Work with cranes and rigging, including acting as a signal person for equipment operators
• Chip, paint, sweep, and wash down equipment on the job site
• Safely secure the work area to allow only authorized personnel
• Load and unload materials from deck barges and miscellaneous equipment
• Provide assistance to craft workers, such as carpenters, plasterers, or masons
• Perform other duties as required

Physical Demands / Working Environment

• Work is performed in the field and in all-weather conditions
• Must be able to perform physical activities requiring considerable use of arms, legs, and whole-body movement (e.g., climbing, lifting up to 75 pounds, balancing, walking, stooping)
• Able to tolerate vibrations, heat, and high noise levels
• Able to safely execute duties around heavy equipment and large machinery in marine dredging and construction job sites
• Able to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) such as hard hats, safety glasses, personal flotation devices, and respirators

Pay

$25–$40 per hour, commensurate with experience.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401K with employer match
• Opportunities for growth, development, and internal promotion