groundhand

A groundhand is a general laborer, typically employed in industries such as construction, logging, mining, and maritime operations. Their primary role involves assisting skilled tradespeople and heavy equipment operators by performing tasks that do not require specialized training. This can include a wide range of manual labor, such as clearing debris, preparing work sites, carrying tools and materials, and performing basic maintenance.

In construction, groundhands might dig trenches, mix concrete, or help erect scaffolding. In logging, they could be responsible for limbing trees, moving felled timber, or maintaining equipment. In mining, their duties might involve shoveling ore, operating small machinery, or ensuring safety protocols are followed. On docks or in shipyards, groundhands, often called deckhands or laborers, assist with loading and unloading cargo, cleaning vessels, and performing general upkeep.

The work of a groundhand is essential for the efficient and safe operation of many industries. While the tasks are often physically demanding, they provide valuable entry-level experience and a pathway to learning more specialized skills. Groundhands are an integral part of any team that relies on manual labor to achieve its objectives.