Hand laborers and material movers

Hand laborers and material movers play a vital role in the US economy, with 7.0 million professionals employed nationwide. The median annual salary is $37,680, with projected growth of 4% through 2034 (As fast as average).

$37,680
Median Salary
4%
Growth Rate
20%
AI Risk
No Degree Required
Education

💰 Salary Range

$22,608$37,680 median$60,288

📈 Growth Outlook

moderate — 4% projected growth

🤖 AI Automation Risk

Very Low

This career is highly resistant to AI automation.

🔬 AI Impact Deep Dive: Hand laborers and material movers

AI Collaboration Score

400% — Very High

Measures how much AI tools are used as collaborative assistants in this role (0% = no AI involvement, 100% = AI-intensive workflow)

🔮 Future Outlook

The core duties of this occupation are fundamentally physical, involving the manual movement, cleaning, and packing of heavy materials in unpredictable real-world environments. While AI can optimize logistics, routing, and inventory tracking, the physical labor itself is resistant to AI and requires advanced robotics rather than software-based intelligence to automate.

Analysis based on Microsoft "Working with AI" research (2025), O*NET task data v30.2, and Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational projections. Updated March 2026.

🌅 A Day in the Life

As a hand laborers and material mover, your day involves a mix of specialized tasks that require both expertise and adaptability. You work with colleagues, clients, or patients depending on the setting, applying your training to solve real-world problems.

🌟 Why It's Promising

With 4% projected growth and a median salary of $37,680, this career offers steady prospects. The large employment base (7.0M jobs) means abundant opportunities across the country.

🚀 How to Get Started

Entry typically requires no formal educational credential. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field.

🎯 Who Is It For

Anyone interested in hand laborers and material movers who wants to build a rewarding career in this field.

🔗 Related Careers

Bartenders

$33,530AI Risk: 20%moderate

Pest control workers

$44,730AI Risk: 20%moderate

Chefs and head cooks

$60,990AI Risk: 30%moderate

Cooks

$35,760AI Risk: 30%moderate

Food and beverage serving and related workers

$31,040AI Risk: 30%moderate

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Hand laborers and material movers make?

The median salary for a Hand laborers and material movers is $37,680 per year. Salaries range from $22,608 to $60,288 depending on experience, location, and specialization.

What AP courses should I take to become a Hand laborers and material movers?

Entry typically requires no formal educational credential. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field.

Is Hand laborers and material movers a good career in 2026?

With 4% projected growth and a median salary of $37,680, this career offers steady prospects. The large employment base (7.0M jobs) means abundant opportunities across the country.

Will AI replace Hand laborers and material moverss?

AI risk score: 20/100. This career is highly resistant to AI automation due to its need for human judgment, creativity, or physical presence.

Find Your Perfect Career Match

Interested in becoming a Hand laborers and material movers? Download PathLeap for personalized career recommendations based on your interests and skills.

🚀 Join the Waitlist — Coming Soon