The construction industry in the Philippines is thriving, fueled by ongoing infrastructure projects, rapid urbanization, and growing housing demand. With a constant need for additional workers, it offers excellent entry-level career opportunities for individuals of all educational backgrounds—including high school graduates and college degree holders

With minimal experience and the right training, you can break into this dynamic field. Below is a list of top construction jobs for beginners, complete with descriptions and requirements.

 

1. Mason Helper

• Description: Mason helpers assist skilled masons in preparing and applying concrete, mixing mortar, and laying bricks or blocks. It’s a hands-on job that teaches foundational skills for masonry work.

• Requirements: Basic physical fitness, willingness to learn, and completion of a short TESDA masonry course (NC I or II) is preferred. No prior experience is typically needed.

•  Tools Needed Include:

• Trowel: For spreading and smoothing mortar.

• Mixing Hoe: For preparing cement mixtures.

• Wheelbarrow: For transporting materials like sand or gravel.

• Why Start?: High demand for concrete work ensures steady jobs, especially in urban and rural construction projects.

 

2. Carpenter’s Assistant

• Description: Carpenter’s assistants support carpenters by preparing materials, cutting wood, and assembling frameworks for homes, furniture, or roofing. 

• Requirements: Basic tool-handling skills (e.g., hammers, saws) and a TESDA Carpentry NC I certification is preferred. 

• Tools Needed Include:

• Claw Hammer: For driving and removing nails.

• Tape Measure: For accurate measurements of woodcuts.

• Hand Saw: For manual cutting of lumber.

• Why Start?: Offers practical experience and a pathway to becoming a skilled carpenter in residential projects. You can start your own small business once you’ve learned enough carpentry skills.

 

3. Construction Laborer/Worker

• Description: What is a construction worker’s job? It’s to perform general tasks like carrying materials, cleaning sites, and assisting tradespeople. This role is a catch-all for beginners, providing exposure to various construction processes and a chance to discover a preferred skill to specialize in.

• Requirements: Physical stamina and a high school diploma or equivalent. Short TESDA courses in construction basics can enhance employability but aren’t usually required.

• Tools Needed Include:

• Shovel: For digging or moving loose materials.

• Hard Hat: For protection against falling debris.

• Utility Knife: For cutting basic materials like rope or packaging.

• Why Start?: Widespread need across all construction sites, from Metro Manila skyscrapers to provincial infrastructure. One of the easiest to find and enter due to its high demand.

 

4. Electrical Helper

• Description: Electrical helpers assist electricians with installing wiring, lighting, and electrical systems, ensuring compliance with safety standards. This position introduces beginners to essential electrician skills, equipping you to work as a repairman or start your own business with sufficient experience.

• Requirements: Basic knowledge of electrical tools and a TESDA Electrical Installation and Maintenance NC I certification (due to the technical nature of this position, trade courses from organizations like TESDA are likely a requirement for many companies). 

•  Tools Needed Include:

• Screwdriver Set: For securing electrical components.

• Wire Stripper: For preparing electrical cables.

• Voltage Tester: For ensuring safe electrical installations.

• Why Start?: Rising demand for electrical work in commercial and residential projects offers a clear path to electrician roles and even starting your own small business.

 

5. Safety Assistant

• Description: Safety assistants support construction safety officers by monitoring site hazards, distributing safety gear, and ensuring compliance with regulations. This role is essential under the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) standards, especially in disaster-prone areas.

• Requirements: Completion of a DOLE-accredited Basic Occupational Safety and Health (BOSH) course and a high school diploma. No prior experience is needed.

•  Tools Needed Include:

• Safety Clipboard: For documenting safety checks.

• Respirator: For protection against dust or fumes.

• Safety Goggles: For eye protection during inspections.

• Why Start?: Growing emphasis on workplace safety creates demand, with opportunities to advance to safety officer roles.

 

 

6. Junior Project Coordinator

• Description: Junior project coordinators assist project managers in planning, scheduling, and tracking construction progress. This role suits college graduates with organizational skills, offering exposure to project management in construction.

• Requirements: A bachelor’s degree in any field (e.g., business, management, or engineering-related), basic computer skills, and familiarity with project management tools like MS Excel or Trello. 

•  Tools Needed Include:

• Laptop/Tablet: For managing schedules and documentation.

• Project Management Software: Such as MS Project or Trello for tracking tasks.

• Laser Pointer: For presenting plans during site meetings.

• Why Start?: High demand for coordinators in large-scale projects and it provides a stepping stone to project management roles.

 

7. Quantity Surveyor Assistant

• Description: Quantity surveyor assistants help estimate costs for materials, labor, and timelines, supporting budgeting for construction projects. This role is ideal for graduates with analytical skills, offering insight into cost management.

• Requirements: A bachelor’s degree in any field (preferably related to finance or engineering), basic math skills, and proficiency in software like MS Excel. 

•  Tools Needed Include:

• Calculator: For quick cost calculations.

• Spreadsheet Software: Such as MS Excel for cost estimation.

• Measuring Tape: For on-site material assessments.

• Why Start?: Growing need for accurate budgeting in construction projects and it offers a path to full-fledged quantity surveyor positions.

 

Final Thoughts

The Philippines’ construction boom offers beginners a wealth of career opportunities, from hands-on roles like mason helpers and carpenter’s assistants to supportive construction positions like safety assistants. With accessible training programs from TESDA and a focus on local building needs, these jobs provide a solid foundation for long-term success. 

We hope this guide was helpful! If you need more assistance, our team at Mackun Hardware is always ready to help.

 

You can find all of the construction tools you need to get started here.

For inquiries and orders you may visit or contact us:

Address: RW Building, Sergio Osmeña Street Cagayan de Oro City, Misamis Oriental 9000

Contact No. : +63 956 037 2805