Carpenters

What the job really is

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.

At a glance

• Sector: Construction & Extraction
• O*NET-SOC code: 47-2031
• O*NET job zone: 2 — some preparation
• Work sample tasks on file: 12
• Tools and technologies listed: 12

What you actually do

Work sample tasks recorded for this occupation:

• 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.
• Verify trueness of structure, using plumb bob and level.
• Inspect ceiling or floor tile, wall coverings, siding, glass, or woodwork to detect broken or damaged structures.
• Erect scaffolding or ladders for assembling structures above ground level.
• Install structures or fixtures, such as windows, frames, floorings, trim, or hardware, using carpenters' hand or power tools.
• Maintain records, document actions, and present written progress reports.
• Remove damaged or defective parts or sections of structures and repair or replace, using hand tools.
• Maintain job records and schedule work crew.

Tools and technology

Intuit QuickBooks, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Office software, Microsoft Windows, Microsoft Word, A-frame levels, Air compressors, Auger bits, Baluster jigs, Band saws, Bandsaws, Beam saws

What employers expect you to already be comfortable with.

Where this job leads

Related occupations — the usual moves up and sideways:

• Drywall and Ceiling Tile Installers
• Structural Iron and Steel Workers
• Brickmasons and Blockmasons
• Sheet Metal Workers
• Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters
• Cabinetmakers and Bench Carpenters
• Layout Workers, Metal and Plastic
• Helpers--Carpenters

Getting in

O*NET assigns this occupation job zone 2 (some preparation). The related occupations above are the realistic routes in and out.

Find openings

Browse the verified job sources directory, or explore more occupations.

Check this against the source

O*NET OnLine: Carpenters — the authoritative public-domain profile this page is derived from, including the full task list, reported skills and the wage estimates for your region.

Derived and rewritten from the public-domain O*NET database (U.S. Department of Labor / Employment and Training Administration). Figures are observations, not promises — always confirm salary, licensing and visa requirements with the employer and the relevant authority.