← BlogSeptember 29, 20235 min readEditorial teamDEUAENRU
For workers
Construction Helper in Germany: Duties, Requirements and Pay
Construction helpers are needed on building sites, and you can often start without training. Here you learn what tasks to expect, what to bring and how to protect yourself.
What you do as a construction helper
As a construction helper you support skilled workers such as bricklayers, concrete workers or drywallers. Typical tasks are carrying materials, tidying the site, helping to build scaffolding and formwork, mixing concrete or mortar, trench work and simple auxiliary tasks. You work under the instructions of the foreman or site management.
Working hours and weather
Construction often starts early. Weather can affect work, and in winter there are stoppages. Before you start, ask how the employer handles bad weather and downtime.
What you should bring
- Physical fitness and stamina.
- Reliability, punctuality and teamwork.
- Safety awareness.
- Basic German or English to understand instructions and warning signs.
- Your own work boots, if the employer does not provide them.
Protective equipment
On site, a helmet, safety boots, gloves and a high-visibility vest matter, and depending on the task also hearing protection and safety glasses. The employer must provide necessary personal protective equipment. Details in the article on work clothing and protective equipment.
Pay
Sector minimum wages apply in construction. In the lowest wage group the minimum has been €13.40 per hour since January 2023. Check which wage group applies to your job. The statutory minimum wage of €12 is the absolute floor that cannot be undercut.
What you can do
- Ask about tasks, working hours and wage group.
- Get safety boots and gloves.
- Take the site induction and ask when unsure.
- Get your employment contract in writing.
- If you have questions, write to us on Telegram.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need training to be a construction helper?
No. On-site induction is usually enough to start. With experience you can progress.
How much does a construction helper earn?
A sector minimum wage applies in construction. In the lowest wage group it is €13.40 per hour since January 2023.
Who provides protective equipment?
The employer must provide necessary personal protective equipment. Ask beforehand what you should bring yourself.
What happens in bad weather?
It depends on contract and employer. Ask before you start about the rules on downtime.