Carpenter Career Guide

What Does a Carpenter Do?

Carpenters construct, repair, and install building frameworks and structures made from wood and other materials. They work on diverse projects ranging from residential homes to commercial buildings, bridges, and highways.

On a typical day, carpenters read blueprints, measure and cut materials, install structures like walls and doorframes, and use both hand tools and power equipment. They work indoors and outdoors, often collaborating with other construction professionals.

Key responsibilities include:

• Reading and following blueprints and building plans
• Measuring, cutting, and shaping wood, plastic, and other materials
• Installing structures and fixtures (windows, molding, cabinets, doorframes)
• Constructing building frameworks including walls, floors, and roofs
• Inspecting and replacing damaged structures
• Directing and instructing construction laborers and helpers

Education & Requirements

• Typical Education: High school diploma or equivalent. Some complete associate's degrees in carpentry from vocational-technical schools.
• Certifications: OSHA 10-hour safety certification required. Optional specialty certifications available through professional associations for career advancement.
• Key Skills: Math skills (trigonometry, geometry), blueprint reading, physical strength and stamina, hand-eye coordination, attention to detail, problem-solving abilities.
• Experience: Apprenticeships typical (3-4 years combining classroom instruction with paid on-the-job training). Can also start as construction laborer/helper.

Salary Information

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024 data):

• Median Annual Salary: $59,310 ($28.51/hour)
• Entry-Level (10th percentile): $38,760
• Experienced (90th percentile): $98,370
• Top-Paying Industries: Nonresidential building construction ($63,330), Building finishing contractors ($59,560)
• Lower-Paying Sectors: Foundation/structure contractors ($58,090), Residential construction ($58,590)

Job Outlook & Growth

Employment is projected to grow 4% from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations. This growth translates to approximately 43,100 new jobs over the decade, with about 74,100 total openings annually when including replacement needs.

Growth drivers include:

• Population growth: Increasing demand for new-home construction
• Nonresidential construction: Continued building of factories, offices, and commercial structures
• Infrastructure needs: Ongoing maintenance and renovation projects

Limiting factors: Growth may be tempered by modular and prefabricated construction methods that reduce onsite carpentry needs.

How to Break Into This Field

1. Education: Complete high school with focus on math and mechanical drawing. Consider vocational carpentry programs or community college associate's degrees for structured learning.
2. Entry-Level Roles: Start as construction laborer or carpenter's helper, learning basic tasks under experienced workers. Or join a formal apprenticeship program through unions or contractor associations.
3. Build Skills: Complete OSHA 10-hour safety training (mandatory). Learn to use hand tools, power tools, and measuring equipment. Practice blueprint reading and basic math.
4. Network: Join local union chapters (United Brotherhood of Carpenters), attend construction trade shows, connect with contractors and builders in your area.
5. Apply Strategically: Contact general contractors, residential builders, specialty contractors. Check state employment services and apprenticeship.gov for registered apprenticeships.

Career Path & Advancement

Typical progression: Apprentice → Journeyman carpenter → Lead carpenter → Foreman → General contractor or Construction supervisor.

Experienced carpenters can advance to first-line supervisory positions, become independent contractors running their own businesses, or specialize in high-demand areas like finish carpentry, cabinet making, or restoration work. Self-employed carpenters (27% of the workforce) have the flexibility to set their own schedules and rates.

Pros & Cons

Related Careers

If you're interested in Carpenter, you might also consider:

• Construction Manager – Oversee construction projects from start to finish ($106,980 median)
• Electrician – Install and maintain electrical systems (similar pay and training path)
• Plumber – Install and repair water systems (similar apprenticeship model)
• Drywall Installer – Specialize in wallboard installation ($58,800 median)
• General Maintenance Worker – Fix and maintain buildings and equipment ($48,620 median)