Carpenter

Explore This Path

Perfect for those who love crafting and building with their hands.
Shape the world by constructing essential structures and beautiful interiors.
Unique chance to blend creativity with precision in every project.

💰 Earn $52K-$84K

📚 High School Diploma or GED

⏱️ 6–12 MONTH TRAINING

📈 4.2% JOB GROWTH

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What You’ll Do

Construct, erect, install, or repair structures and fixtures made of wood and comparable materials, such as concrete forms; building frameworks, including partitions, joists, studding, and rafters; and wood stairways, window and door frames, and hardwood floors. May also install cabinets, siding, drywall, and batt or roll insulation. Includes brattice builders who build doors or brattices (ventilation walls or partitions) in underground passageways.

Follow established safety rules and regulations and maintain a safe and clean environment.
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.
Study specifications in blueprints, sketches, or building plans to prepare project layout and determine dimensions and materials required.
Shape or cut materials to specified measurements, using hand tools, machines, or power saws.

Scoop

Minimum Education

High School Diploma or GED

Career Prospects

Good (Increasing by 1-5%)

Training Time

6 months to 1 year

Job Openings

76,500 Annually

Median Earnings

$68,380 in California

$56,350 Nationally

$25K

$50K

$75K

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$125K

$150K

$175K

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$250K

Real Talk Reel

Want to see what it's like to be a Carpenter? We've curated a playlist for you to get a glimpse into a day in the life.

@NF_Build

@Keels_joinery

@izzythechippy

Best For You If...

YOU Like 💕

Thinking and problem solving
Using data or completing tasks
Working with my hands

You are skilled in 💫

Active Listening
Coordination
Critical Thinking
Monitoring
Time Management

You value 🙏

Having support
Having freedom
Job security

Deep Dive

Carpenter

Explore career pathways, key skills, and what each role has to offer.

Pathways to this Career

Learn about the education and training paths that can lead to this career — and what to expect from each one.

Associate's Degree

An associate's degree typically provides graduates with foundational knowledge and skills for entry-level jobs in the graduate's industry, or serves as a stepping stone towards further education.

🎓 College

⏱️ FINISH IN 2-3 years

Bachelor's Degree

A bachelor's degree typically results in increased knowledge about a variety of academic subjects, specialized knowledge in a focused field of study, and is considered the foundational qualification for many careers.

🎓 College

⏱️ FINISH IN 4-5+ years

Vocational School

A vocational school typically equips students with specialized skills and practical training in specific trades or occupations, enhancing their employability and providing direct pathways to relevant careers.

🎓 Skills-Focused

⏱️ FINISH IN 6 months - 2 years