Rethinking the Term ‘Unskilled Labor'
By: Regina Dyerly, SHRBP, PHR | Chief Operations Officer (COO)
An edited version of this article was published in the March 15, 2024, issue of the SHRM Executive Network: News and Insights. This version includes the full, unedited content.
Strawberry picking requires artistry and complexity that extends far beyond what may initially meet the eye. It involves a delicate understanding of the fruit's growth patterns and ripeness. Even a slight mistake, like picking at the wrong angle or removing too many leaves, can result in mass amounts of unnecessary waste. Each strawberry must be carefully evaluated before harvest to ensure that only perfectly ripe ones are picked, as harvesting with less than flawless timing can harm their quality and lead to spoilage. This is one example of the precision and expertise required for a job that is often misconceived as “straightforward” – or even “unskilled”.
In an era when many complex jobs are labeled as "unskilled labor," it is time to shed our assumptions and uncover the untold stories of essential workers. The term typically suggests jobs that require minimal training and expertise, often involving physically demanding tasks. However, beneath this surface perception, we discover a world of hidden artistry and unwavering commitment. In this article, we delve into the craftsmanship behind strawberry picking, the resilience demonstrated by grocery store workers during the initial year of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the often-overlooked expertise in custodial work. Through personal anecdotes, enlightening statistics, and the remarkable experiences of these workers, we aim to challenge the notion of unskilled labor.
Defining ‘Unskilled Labor’ and Its Historical Context
To understand the origins of the term "unskilled labor," we need to trace back to the Industrial Revolution, a time when mass production began to dominate economies. The separation of tasks into distinct roles led to the categorization of jobs as either skilled or unskilled, often based on the amount of training required. This binary classification, however, fails to capture the nuances of the skills and expertise needed to excel in various roles.
The Complexity of Strawberry Picking
(Avg Salary = $37K, ZipRecruiter)
Like many skilled workers, strawberry harvesters have a masterful understanding of their trade. Each strawberry must be carefully evaluated before harvest to ensure that only ripe ones are picked, as harvesting unripe or overripe berries can harm their quality and lead to spoilage. Additionally, pickers must navigate through dense foliage, carefully selecting ripe strawberries while leaving the others untouched to maintain the leaves' freshness. This allows for virtually zero margin for error in a role perceived as “unskilled”.
Physical and Mental Demand
Manual harvesting is extremely demanding, requiring exceptional mental and physical stamina and athleticism. Workers spend long hours bending, crouching, and reaching during the gathering process. They must maintain a steady pace to meet production quotas while ensuring each berry is picked with care. The repetitive nature of this work can lead to fatigue and strain on the body.
The ability to balance physical endurance with the need for precision is critical to be a manual harvester. Workers must maintain heavy focus while navigating the fields and preserving their crops. This skill is honed over many years, reflecting the necessary dedication and professionalism inherent in these so-called "unskilled" roles.
Why Does This Matter? - Economic Impact
To emphasize the significance of this profession, consider that according to CaliforniaStrawberries.com, strawberries are California’s third highest grossing crop, bringing in an impressive $3.02 billion in revenue in 2021 and creating approximately 70,000 jobs across 30 different sectors, including farming, manufacturing, and distribution. It's worth noting that these figures represent the production in the state of California, which alone accounts for 90% of the nation's strawberry production.
The Forgotten Struggles of Grocery Store Workers
(Avg Salary = $31K, ZipRecruiter)
I was in the checkout line at my local King Soopers in late summer of 2020 – mask on, listening to a verbally irate customer in front of me. When the bad-mannered customer walked away, the cashier, who had been handling the situation with remarkable patience, looked at me and let out a heavy sigh. Her comment, though slightly muffled through her mask, hit me hard. 'Well, it didn’t take long to go from Hero to Zero,' she said softly. As she started scanning my items, I couldn't help but feel a lump in my throat – because I could see that she was right.
The Job Remains Extremely Challenging
Transporting back to the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic, grocery store workers were hailed as frontline heroes, ensuring communities had access to essential goods. Their dedication and resilience were applauded nationwide. However, as the pandemic progressed, the once-celebrated heroes gradually faded into the background, facing new challenges and burdens. Beyond the risk of exposure – which dominated the psyche of many, they encountered furious customers frustrated by shortages, changes in store policies, and the unpredictable nature of the pandemic. Despite the change in public perception, the job of grocery store workers remained as challenging as ever, with fatigue, concerns about safety, and emotional tolls from difficult interactions with customers.
Increased Volume and Adapting to Pressure
As per the U.S. Department of Agriculture, for the first 2 years of the pandemic, between the declaration of the national emergency concerning the pandemic on March 13, 2020, and March 13, 2022, real food retail sales increased by roughly 10 percent compared to pre-pandemic levels. This staggering increase in demand placed unprecedented pressure on grocery store workers, who had to adapt to rapidly changing circumstances while maintaining a consistent and safe supply of essential goods.
From Heroes to Zeroes
The stark contrast between the initial gratitude and the subsequent shift in society's perception of grocery workers underscores how quickly public sentiment can change. As the pandemic progressed, the initial outpouring of appreciation for these essential workers gradually faded. This reflects the changing dynamics in our perception of labor and the treatment of those who played crucial roles during the crisis. It's worth noting that while some may feel emboldened to express frustration toward 'unskilled' or ‘minimum’ wage workers, we seldom witness the same behavior towards professionals in other fields, such as our optometrist. This phenomenon offers an opportunity for reflection on how we value and respect all forms of labor in our society.
The Skill in Custodial Work
(Avg. Salary = $34K, Glassdoor)
Economic Impact
According to IBISWorld, the market size, measured by revenue, of the Janitorial Services industry was an impressive $89.7 billion in 2022, with a workforce of 2,347,836 employees currently working in the field in 2023. These statistics underscore the vast scale of the custodial profession and the significant contributions it makes to maintaining clean and safe environments.
Comprehensive Expertise & Physical Demands
Custodial work is a prime example of a profession often misunderstood as 'unskilled labor.' Cleaners and custodians play an essential role in maintaining hygienic and safe environments, but what's often underestimated are the intense physical demands and comprehensive expertise required for their job.
These professionals need to possess an intricate knowledge of toxic cleaning agents, equipment operation, hazardous materials, and specialized techniques for various surfaces. From marble floors demanding specific pH-balanced solutions to delicate fabrics that require special care, custodians navigate a diverse range of surfaces and materials, each demanding a unique approach. Furthermore, the custodial field has evolved significantly with the arrival of modern cleaning technology, integrating advanced machinery, eco-friendly cleaning products, and data-driven cleaning strategies. This transformation propels custodial work into a realm of science and innovation, underscoring the level of skill and adaptation demanded by this profession.
Exposure & Maintaining Strict Safety
In addition to their expertise in handling various surfaces and materials, custodians must also prioritize safety protocols. The cleaning industry exposes employees to potentially hazardous materials and chemicals, necessitating a deep understanding of safety precautions. Moreover, custodians often work with equipment that can pose dangers if not operated correctly, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive training and vigilance. Whether it's managing toxic cleaning agents, operating complex machinery, or following strict safety guidelines, custodial work demands a high level of skill and diligence to ensure both effective cleaning and the well-being of those performing these vital tasks.
Recognizing the Artistry Within Essential Tasks and the “Unskilled”
In recent decades, the U.S. job market has undergone a significant transformation, often referred to as 'hollowing out.' This shift involves a notable growth in both high-skilled, high-wage occupations and low-skilled, low-wage jobs, challenging traditional notions of 'unskilled labor.'
This trend isn't new; history reveals similar shifts during periods of industrialization. For instance, in the 19th century, factory owners replaced artisans with unskilled labor and machines, akin to today's technological advancements affecting essential work sectors.
Changing Vocabulary
These historical examples force us to reconsider the label of 'unskilled labor.' Rather than hollowing out, some sectors have experienced an upgrade in skill levels. This includes an expansion of high-skill positions, stability in middle-tier jobs, and a reduction in low-skill roles. Such shifts challenge our perceptions of essential work.
Research by economists Lawrence Katz and Robert Margo in their paper Technical Change and the Relative Demand for Skilled Labor: The United States in Historical Perspective also highlights the changing demand for specific workers over time, even during early industrialization. The relative demand for white-collar workers increased with relative supply, a trend that began long ago and continues today.
Redefining the Narrative
Behind the scenes of strawberry picking, grocery stores, and custodial work lies a world of expertise, commitment, and passion. As consumers, we hold the power to redefine the narrative surrounding "unskilled labor." Supporting these essential workers means acknowledging the complexity of their jobs and appreciating the artistry that makes our lives better. As we savor strawberries, walk through spotless halls, and shop in well-stocked stores, let us remember the unsung heroes who dedicate themselves to these essential tasks. It is their skill and sacrifices that breathe life into the term "unskilled labor" and challenge us to perceive artistry in every profession.
Raising Awareness
We invite you to raise awareness about the hidden artistry of essential work. Share these stories with your friends and family and encourage conversations about the skills and dedication required in these roles. By spreading awareness, we contribute to a culture of respect and recognition for all workers, regardless of their job titles.
In our journey through the narratives of strawberry pickers, grocery store workers, and custodians, we realize that the term "unskilled labor" is a misnomer that fails to capture the depth of skill, dedication, and expertise present in these roles. By shedding light on the stories, challenges, and mastery within these supposedly "unskilled" jobs, we forge a path toward recognizing the artistry of essential work and honoring those who enrich our lives through their skillful contributions.
Rethinking the Term ‘Unskilled Labor'
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