Carpenters
Carpenters construct, erect, install, or repair structures and fixtures made of wood and similar materials, like concrete forms and building frameworks, including partitions, joists, studding, and rafters. They also work on wood stairways, window and door frames, and hardwood floors. Carpenters may install cabinets, siding, drywall, and insulation. Some specialise as brattice builders, creating doors or ventilation walls in underground passageways.
Did you know?
Most carpenters in Australia complete a 4-year apprenticeship program that combines on-the-job training with formal study. You can start an apprenticeship straight from Year 10 or after completing Year 12, earning while you learn valuable trade skills.
At a glance
Typical average pay
$85,000 Avg/yr
Growth
Fast growing
Top skill
Monitoring
Things to consider
Physical Demands and Safety
Carpentry involves physical work including lifting, climbing, and working in various weather conditions. Strong safety awareness and physical fitness are important, along with good hand-eye coordination and attention to detail.
Career Specialisation Opportunities
Carpenters can specialise in areas like residential construction, commercial building, furniture making, or restoration work. Many experienced carpenters become self-employed contractors or advance to supervisory roles in construction companies.
Key responsibilities
Studying drawings and specifications to determine materials required, dimensions and installation procedures
Ordering and selecting timbers and materials, and preparing layouts
Cutting materials, and assembling and nailing cut and shaped parts
Erecting framework and roof framing, laying sub-flooring and floorboards and verifying trueness of structures
Nailing fascia panels, sheathing roofs, and fitting exterior wall cladding and door and window frames