Updated November 14, 2023
A carpenter is a person who works with various materials, especially wood, in a construction project. Carpenters build, shape or assemble wooden structures in buildings, stages, ships and other structures. “A finish carpenter” will cut wood to fit into flooring, windows and other parts of a building, while a “bench carpenter” will assemble distinct pieces according to blueprints. Carpenters are among the most skilled positions in the building trades.
Salary (Median Pay)
For carpenters.
- Salary: $49,520/yr
- Hourly Rate: $23.81/hr
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
Duties and Responsibilities
- Read and understand blueprints;
- Cut and form wood and other materials to fit in designated spaces;
- Install and modify pieces of structures in building projects;
- Use tools including circular saws, grinders, levels, drills;
- Carve and assemble furniture and fixtures that will form part of finished projects;
- Understand other aspects of the construction process;
- Inspect and repair damaged pieces and structures; and
- Leave worksite in clean and usable condition.
Qualifications
- Understand how to safely use tools and follow job site safety protocols;
- Ability to stand for long periods of time and occasionally move or lift heavy objects;
- Excellent fine motor skills and an eye for aesthetics;
- Knowledge of building materials, particularly different types of wood and their uses;
- Willingness to work with others on occasionally complex, long-lasting projects; and
- Provide customer service to clients and/or general contractors overseeing a project.