A general laborer is sometimes known as an unskilled laborer, and there is no minimum education qualification necessary for the position. A high school education is usually preferred but often not required, and you may end up getting some job training in order to become a general laborer, but such training is usually minimal. The best way to find a position as an unskilled laborer is to apply for a position with a construction company or other industrial company in need of manpower.
The various jobs a general laborer will perform will differ according to the industry in which that laborer will work. If you want to become a general laborer, it is a good idea to do a bit of research into various industries that hire such laborers so you will be prepared for the work you will do. It is also a good idea to keep yourself in good physical condition, as you will perform a significant amount of manual labor once you become a general laborer. You will be on your feet for long periods of time, and the nature of the work you will do will be quite difficult.
It is usually a good idea to get some sort of training within the industry you intend to work in, not necessarily to help you become a general laborer, but instead to help you advance after you secure an unskilled laborer position. General laborers are the lowest form of workers on a construction or industrial team, so if you want to advance within a company into a higher-paying job with more responsibility, you will need to take on some training. Basic math skills and communication skills are important, but beyond that, you will need to find out what kind of training you are qualified for. You can also help your own cause by getting additional certifications, such as a commercial driver's license with the appropriate endorsements. This will qualify you in some cases for training pertaining to the operation of heavy machinery.
Make sure whatever job you take as a general laborer will pay at least minimum wage. Avoid jobs that are offered off the books or in an unofficial capacity; this ensures you are operating within local laws and regulations, and it will make sure you will be cared for if an accident occurs on the job. You will also be able to use the job as a reference or item on a resume when you apply for other positions.
