Carpenters
Overview
Carpenters build, repair, and install the wooden frameworks that make up buildings, from walls and floors to windows and decorative molding. They read blueprints, measure and cut materials with precision using both traditional hand tools and modern power equipment, and work closely with construction teams to bring architectural plans to life. This hands-on career combines problem-solving skills with physical work and can be learned through trade school programs or apprenticeships. Many carpenters today also use computer-aided design software and laser measuring tools to ensure perfect accuracy in their projects.

Did you know?
Woodworking involves significant physical labor and exposure to potentially dangerous tools, requiring adherence to OSHA safety standards and consideration of long-term physical health impacts.
At a Glance
Median Wage
$57,516.47 Avg/yr
Growth
Fast Growing
Top Skill
Complex Problem Solving
Key Responsibilities
- Study specifications in blueprints, sketches, or building plans to prepare project layout and determine dimensions and materials required.
- Install rough door and window frames, subflooring, fixtures, or temporary supports in structures undergoing construction or repair.
- Cover subfloors with building paper to keep out moisture and lay hardwood, parquet, or wood-strip-block floors by nailing floors to subfloor or cementing them to mastic or asphalt base.
- Finish surfaces of woodwork or wallboard in houses or buildings, using paint, hand tools, or paneling.
- Maintain records, document actions, and present written progress reports.
- Install structures or fixtures, such as windows, frames, floorings, trim, or hardware, using carpenters' hand or power tools.
- Maintain job records and schedule work crew.
- Perform minor plumbing, welding, or concrete mixing work.
- Shape or cut materials to specified measurements, using hand tools, machines, or power saws.
- Bore boltholes in timber, masonry or concrete walls, using power drill.
- Verify trueness of structure, using plumb bob and level.
- Select and order lumber or other required materials.
- Build sleds from logs and timbers for use in hauling camp buildings and machinery through wooded areas.
- Work with or remove hazardous material.
- Apply shock-absorbing, sound-deadening, or decorative paneling to ceilings or walls.
- Construct forms or chutes for pouring concrete.
- Remove damaged or defective parts or sections of structures and repair or replace, using hand tools.
- Prepare cost estimates for clients or employers.
- Inspect ceiling or floor tile, wall coverings, siding, glass, or woodwork to detect broken or damaged structures.
- Arrange for subcontractors to deal with special areas, such as heating or electrical wiring work.
- Follow established safety rules and regulations and maintain a safe and clean environment.
- Build or repair cabinets, doors, frameworks, floors, or other wooden fixtures used in buildings, using woodworking machines, carpenter's hand tools, or power tools.
- Erect scaffolding or ladders for assembling structures above ground level.
- Anchor and brace forms and other structures in place, using nails, bolts, anchor rods, steel cables, planks, wedges, and timbers.
- Dig or direct digging of post holes and set poles to support structures.
- Fill cracks or other defects in plaster or plasterboard and sand patch, using patching plaster, trowel, and sanding tool.
- Measure and mark cutting lines on materials, using a ruler, pencil, chalk, and marking gauge.
- Assemble and fasten materials to make frameworks or props, using hand tools and wood screws, nails, dowel pins, or glue.
- Examine structural timbers and supports to detect decay, and replace timbers as required, using hand tools, nuts, and bolts.
Career Considerations
Physical Demands and Safety Requirements
Woodworking involves significant physical labor and exposure to potentially dangerous tools, requiring adherence to OSHA safety standards and consideration of long-term physical health impacts.
Skills Development and Training Pathways
Success in woodworking typically requires formal training through trade schools, apprenticeships, or community college programs that are widely available across the United States.
Market Competition and Specialization
The American woodworking market is highly competitive, making specialization in areas like custom furniture, cabinetry, or restoration essential for career advancement and higher earnings.