Carpenter

Written By Keandra Wilson

1. Overview

Carpenters construct, repair, and install building frameworks and structures made from wood and other materials. They play a crucial role in both residential and commercial construction, contributing to everything from house framing to bridge supports. The job requires physical stamina, precision, and familiarity with tools and blueprints.

2024 Median Pay: $59,310/year ($28.51/hour)
Job Growth (2023–2033): +4% (as fast as average)
Typical Education: High school diploma or equivalent

2. Role Breakdown by Level

ENTRY LEVEL
Job Titles: Apprentice Carpenter, Carpenter Helper, Construction Laborer
Education: High school diploma or equivalent
Experience: 0–2 years (typically part of an apprenticeship program)
Certifications (Recommended): OSHA 10, Pre-apprenticeship training
Core Duties:

  • Measure and cut wood and other materials

  • Assist with framing and installation

  • Maintain and transport tools and materials

  • Follow safety procedures on-site
    Salary Range: $35,000–$50,000

MID LEVEL
Job Titles: Journeyman Carpenter, Finish Carpenter, Lead Installer
Education: High school diploma + 3–5 years experience (apprenticeship completed)
Certifications (Preferred): OSHA 30, National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA), NCCER Carpentry Certification
Core Duties:

  • Read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings

  • Construct and install doors, windows, walls, and flooring

  • Operate hand and power tools with precision

  • Supervise entry-level carpenters or apprentices
    Salary Range: $50,000–$75,000

SENIOR LEVEL
Job Titles: Master Carpenter, Construction Supervisor, General Contractor
Education: High school or associate’s degree; 7–10+ years experience
Certifications (Valued): Certified Lead Carpenter (CLC), Building Performance Institute (BPI), Contractor's License (state-dependent)
Core Duties:

  • Oversee large construction projects or multiple sites

  • Estimate costs and bid on jobs

  • Ensure regulatory and safety compliance

  • Train and mentor junior staff
    Salary Range: $75,000–$110,000+

3. How to Become One

  • Education:

    • Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent

    • Training: Apprenticeships, vocational school, or on-the-job training

    • Certifications: OSHA 10/30, trade certifications, journeyman status

    • Soft Skills: Math, problem-solving, attention to detail, physical strength, teamwork

4. Skills & Tools

Core Skills:

  • Blueprint reading

  • Measurement and layout

  • Framing, drywall, flooring

  • Job site safety Tools:

  • Hand tools: hammers, chisels, levels

  • Power tools: circular saws, nail guns, drills

  • Measuring tools: tape measures, laser levels

  • Software: Construction calculators, blueprint reader apps

Tools & Software:

  • Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint): Essential for creating documents, managing data, and scheduling.

  • Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Software: Salesforce, Zoho, HubSpot for managing client interactions.

  • Telecommunication Systems: Ability to manage phone systems, handle voicemail, and forward calls appropriately.

5. Work Environment

  • Locations: Residential buildings, commercial sites, infrastructure projects

  • Schedules: Full-time; often includes early mornings, overtime, or weekends

  • Environment: Indoor and outdoor job sites; may involve heights, tight spaces, and variable weather

6. Job Outlook

  • Demand Drivers: Housing construction, remodeling, infrastructure spending

  • Annual Openings: ~76,500 projected through 2033

  • Growth Opportunity: Specialization in eco-friendly building, supervisory roles, independent contracting

7. Related Occupations

  • Role: Construction Laborer | Salary: $46,050 | Education Level: High school diploma or less

  • Role: Drywall and Ceiling Tile Installer | Salary: $58,800 | Education Level: No formal credential

  • Role: Flooring and Tile Setter | Salary: $52,000 | Education Level: No formal credential

  • Role: Building Inspector | Salary: $72,120 | Education Level: High school diploma

  • Role: Roofer | Salary: $50,970 | Education Level: No formal credential

8. Resources for Learning & Advancement

  • OSHA 10/30 Safety Courses

  • NCCER Carpentry Certification

  • National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA)

  • National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) Books:

  • "Carpentry Complete" by Andy Engel

  • "Modern Carpentry" by Willis H. Wagner

  • "The Very Efficient Carpenter" by Larry Haun Videos & Channels:

  • "Essential Craftsman" (YouTube)

  • "The Honest Carpenter"

  • "This Old House" Communities:

  • r/Carpentry (Reddit)

  • Contractor Talk Forum

  • United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America

9. Regional Data & Employment Trends

  • BLS Profile: Carpenters

  • CareerOneStop: Salary and licensing by state

  • Projections Central: Regional job outlook through 2033

Keandra Wilson
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