Carpenters construct, erect, install, and repair structures and fixtures made of wood, wood products, and wood substitutes, such as building frameworks, including partitions, joists, studding and rafters; wood stairways, window and door frames, and hardwood floors, following local building codes. Jobs range from constructing concrete forms and temporary frame shelters to projects that require exact finish work.

JOB DUTIES

Carpenters may:

Follow rules and regulations and keep a safe and clean environment

Study blueprints, sketches, and building plans

Estimate the total cost of the work based on the required materials and labor

Order building materials

Measure materials or distances, usually square measuring tape or ruler

Anchor and brace forms, and other structures in place using such fasteners as nails, bolts, anchor rods, steel cables, planks, wedges and timbers.

Select materials and prepare the layout

Build or repair cabinets, doors, frameworks, floors, and other wooden fixtures used in buildings, using woodworking

machines, carpenter's hand tools, and power tools

Mark cutting and assembly lines on materials

Cut and shape materials to prescribed measurements using hand and power tools

Assemble, fasten, and install materials

Install metal studs used for partition walls

Lay floors and build stairs

Check the accuracy of work in progress with levels and plumb bobs

Maintain records, document actions and present written reports

Click here to see a Carpenter at work video.

The tools and technology, equipment and work aids that Carpenters may use include:

Materials used by Carpenters include wood and wood products, wood substitutes, insulations, metal, plastic, and concrete.  Carpenters also work with many ready-made products such as:

OCCUPATIONAL SPECIALTIES

Because of the wide variety of work in the trade, some Carpenters specialize in specific types of work such as rough or finish carpentry. However, in most areas Carpenters often perform all kinds of carpentry. 

Carpenters may specialize in these areas:

860.381-022 CARPENTERS construct, erect, install, and repair structures made of wood and wood products following local building codes. Jobs range from constructing concrete forms and temporary frame shelters to projects that require exact finish work.

860.381-022 FINISH CARPENTERS lay out and install moldings, baseboards, doorframes, doors, windows, paneling, cabinets, hardwood floors, stairs, partitions, and other interior and exterior trim.

860.381-042 ROUGH CARPENTERS construct rough wooden frameworks for buildings; install rough window and door frames, partitions, sub-flooring, and sheathing on outer walls and roofs. They also build concrete forms, scaffolds, platforms, screening fences, and temporary shelters on the job site.

860.281-010 MAINTENANCE CARPENTERS construct and repair structural woodwork and equipment working from blueprints, drawings, or instructions.

860.381-010 ACOUSTICAL CARPENTERS mount acoustical tiles to the walls and ceilings of buildings to reduce the reflection of sound and to decorate the rooms. They also install suspended ceilings.

860.381-046 FORM BUILDERS construct built-in-place or prefabricated wooden forms for molding concrete structures.

In addition to learning about these specialties, you may also find it helpful to explore the following Career Exploration scripts:

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WORKING CONDITIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

On small jobs, a Carpenter may work alone or with a helper. On large jobs, Carpenters usually work together as a crew under the direction of a supervisor. Carpenters work indoors or outdoors, depending on the type of work they are doing. Those who work outdoors may work in all types of weather as well as in noisy, dirty conditions on job sites. They may be exposed to injuries from machines and tools and to falls when working at heights. Safe work habits and appropriate dress reduce the risks of an accident.

Carpenters normally work an 8-hour day, 5 days per week. Unionized, construction Carpenters in the Detroit area work a 40-hour week. Since construction work is seasonal, they often have to work longer hours and on weekends during the summer. Poor weather conditions may mean lost hours for Carpenters working outdoors. Carpenters who do indoor maintenance or alteration tend to work a more regular schedule.

Carpenters are expected to supply hand tools such as squares, hammers, saws, and tape measures. A set of carpentry tools, which costs from $450 to $1,200 or more, may sometimes be paid for through payroll deductions. Power equipment and special devices are usually furnished by the employer. Carpenters generally provide their own work clothes, and may have to buy their own safety equipment.

Most Carpenters belong to a craft union such as The United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners. Not belonging to a union may result in less employment during the year and lower pay. Those belonging to unions must pay periodic dues.

You Should Prefer:

• Working with your hands

• Working with things, machines, and techniques

• Working both indoors and outdoors

• Seeing the physical results of your work

You Should Be Able To:

• Work within precise standards of accuracy

• Rate information using standards which can be measured/checked

• Compare/see differences in size/shape/form of lines/figures/objects

• Understand how flat drawings/pictures would look as solid objects

• Follow oral and written directions, plans, and blueprints

Math Problem You Should Be Able to Solve:

What is the length of the ridgeboard in a hip roof where the length of the building is 26 feet, the span is 12 feet, and the common rafters are 2x6's?

Reading Example You Should Be Able to Read and Comprehend:

Double waler construction uses either plyform panels with vertical studs placed alongside the snap tie holes or framed panels. The snap tie ends pass between two walers. The walers strengthen the wall and keep it in alignment.

Writing Example You Should Be Able to Produce:

Prepare a written estimate for a potential client who would like to have a house framed (the house is 1200 square foot).

Thinking Skill You Should Be Able to Demonstrate:

Excellent analytical skills in studying blueprints and other job specifications.

Carpenters who are engaged in residential or residential and commercial construction and who perform contract work over $600 must be licensed by the Michigan Residential Builders Board.  Click  here  for "Michigan Licensed Occupations," see Residential Maintenance and Alteration Contractor for specific licensing information.

EDUCATION AND PREPARATION OPPORTUNITIES

NOTE: On-The-Job Training provided by the employer or a High School Diploma with specific Vocational Education Classes or an Associate Degree (two years of study beyond high school) or an Apprenticeship (usually three to four years of training beyond high school) may qualify a person for this occupation.

The following education and preparation opportunities are helpful in preparing for occupations in this Career Exploration script:

***SCHOOL SUBJECTS***

0200 ART , 0500 BUILDING TRADES , 0700 CAREERS , 0900 COMMUNICATIONS , 2200 MATH , 3200 TECHNICAL DRAWING , 3300 TECHNOLOGY , 3400WOODS

***VOCATIONAL EDUCATION PROGRAMS***

032 CONSTRUCTION/BUILDING MAINTENANCE

Approved vocational education programs in the Construction/Building Maintenance prepare students to erect, maintain, and repair buildings, highways, airports, and other structures using materials such as metal wood, stone, brick, glass, concrete, and composition substances. Instruction is given in cost estimating, the use of hand and power tools, and in following technical specifications and blueprints. Instruction may be given in classroom, shop, or laboratory settings or at the actual location of construction projects.

The following courses may be required for completion of this program:

CONSTRUCTION - (ON SITE)

CONSTRUCTION - (IN SCHOOL)

FLOOR COVERING

High school students should consult their guidance office for more information about the specific requirements of this program at their school or area vocational education center.

***POSTSECONDARY PROGRAMS***

026 CARPENTRY

Programs in Carpentry provide opportunities to gain the knowledge and skills used in laying out, assembling, and repairing structures made of wood.

Courses vary from school to school but may include:

035 CONSTRUCTION & BUILDING TECHNOLOGY

Construction and Building Technology programs provide opportunities to gain the needed knowledge and skills for employment in the many different types of construction and building jobs. Individuals who teach Construction and Building Technology at the secondary school level must have a Michigan Teaching Certificate.

Courses within this program will vary but may include:

   Search for a College and/or Instructional Program

***APPRENTICESHIP OPPORTUNITIES***

012 CARPENTER

Many people enter occupations within this Career Exploration script through an apprenticeship program. An apprenticeship program is a formal program that takes 3 - 5 years to complete with most of the time spent on the job.

WHAT IS LEARNED ON THE JOB

WHAT IS LEARNED IN THE CLASSROOM

***MILITARY TRAINING PROGRAMS***

Please check Military website at http://www.myfuture.com .

CONSTRUCTION SPECIALISTS

The military builds many temporary and permanent structures each year. Lumber, plywood, plasterboard, and similar materials are the basic building materials for many of these projects. Construction specialists build and repair buildings, bridges, and other wooden structures. They work with engineers and other building specialists on military construction projects.

What They Do

Construction specialists in the military perform some or all of the following duties:

• Build foundations, floor slabs, and walls with brick, cement block mortar or stone

• Erect wood framing for buildings using hand and power tools, such as hammers, saws, levels, and drills

• Lay roofing materials, such as roofing felt and asphalt, tile, and wooden shingles

• Install plasterboard and paneling to form interior walls and ceilings

• Lay wood and ceramic tile floors and build steps, staircases, and porches

• Build temporary shelters for storing supplies and equipment while on training maneuvers

Training Provided

Job training consists of 5 to 8 weeks of instruction, including practice with carpentry and masonry tools. Course content typically includes:

• Building construction

• Masonry construction methods

• Types and uses of construction joints and braces

• Interpretation of blueprints and drawings

• How to mix and set concrete, mortar, and plaster

Further training occurs on the job and through advanced courses. The Army, Navy, and Marine Corps offer certified apprenticeship programs in this occupation.

Physical Demands

Construction specialists may have to lift and carry heavy building materials, such as lumber, plasterboard, and concrete. Sometimes, they may have to climb and work from ladders and scaffolding.

Helpful Attributes

Helpful school subjects include math, woodworking, and industrial arts. Helpful attributes include:

• Preference for physical work

• Ability to use woodworking tools

• Interest in construction work

Work Environment

Construction specialists work indoors and outdoors on construction sites.

Civilian Counterparts

Civilian construction specialists usually work for construction or remodeling contractors, government agencies, utility companies, or manufacturing firms. They perform duties similar to military construction specialists. They may also be called bricklayers, stonemasons, cement masons, cement finishers, carpenters, or cabinetmakers.

Opportunities

The exact number of construction specialists is unknown. After job training, construction specialists work in teams under close supervision. Initially, they perform simple work, such as form building and rough framing. With experience, they perform more difficult tasks. In time, they may supervise and train other specialists. They may become construction superintendents.

  E-Learning Courses and Programs

OPPORTUNITIES FOR EXPERIENCE AND METHODS OF ENTRY

Secondary vocational education programs in construction and building maintenance, as well as postsecondary programs in carpentry and construction and building technology, may offer co-op or work experience opportunities. Experience can be gained in the military service, formal apprenticeship programs, or carpenter's helper jobs.

            School-to-Work opportunities include:

informal apprenticeships

mentorships

job shadowing experiences

touring a local Carpenter employer

internships

volunteer work with a Carpenter employer

community service work with an agency

Most Carpenters enter the field through a formal apprenticeship program. Some start informally by working as Carpenter's helpers. Jobs may be available through government civil service offices, school placement offices, local unions, or local offices of the Michigan Works! Newspaper want ads also list job openings. In addition, you should access and search the Internet's on-line employment service sites such as:

           You should also enter an electronic resume on these on-line services.

EARNINGS AND ADVANCEMENT

Earnings of Carpenters depend on union affiliation, type of work done, and geographic location. Nonunion wages are usually lower than the earnings of unionized workers.

Nationally, basic hourly wage rates for Carpenters working in residential construction averaged $23.97 per hour while those working in commercial construction averaged $36.65 per hour in early 2009. Median weekly earnings for Carpenters were $656 or $16.40 per hour in 2008.  The median hourly earnings of "all" workers in the U.S. were $18.05 in 2008.

In Michigan, union hourly wage rates, including fringe benefits, for building trades Carpenters were (early 2009):

In mid 2009, Carpenters employed by the State of Michigan earned between $16.41and $25.20 per hour.  Apprentices start at a rate that is about 55% of the journeyperson rate and receive 5% increases every 6 months while in training.

The 2007 graduates of high school vocational education programs in Michigan who worked in jobs related to this occupation earned a beginning average wage of $10.37 per hour in 2008.

Some Carpenters receive paid vacations and holidays; life, accident, disability, and hospitalization insurance; retirement plans; and sick pay. These benefits are paid for, at least in part, by employers. Unionized employees and employers may jointly contribute to union trust funds used to pay for certain fringe benefits such as pensions and health care.

Advancement depends on experience, job skill, ability to supervise, and availability of openings. A career ladder may follow these steps: Apprenticeship, Carpenter, Supervisor, General Construction Superintendent, Contractor (own business).

EMPLOYMENT AND OUTLOOK

Nationally, there were approximately 1,462,000 Carpenters employed in 2006. Employment is expected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations through the year 2016. Business investments in the near term will be for new equipment such as automated material handling equipment, communications and controlling equipment, robotics and computer systems and local area networks, rather than new plants or structures. For this reason more Carpenters will be employed for repair and remodeling work than in previous years. As a result of the presidential stimulus package, more carpenters in the construction industry will be needed as more funding is provided to complete more construction projects. 

New technology, such as prefabricated windows and doors, will reduce the need for on-site carpentry.  About 30.5 % of Carpenters are self-employed. The industry distribution for Carpenters looked like this:

To find employers, click Employer/Business Locator.

There are approximately 37,750 Carpenters employed in Michigan. Most work in the construction industry for general building contractors or for special trades contractors who performed part of the work.  Others work for mobile home, prefabricated home, or other manufacturers performing various carpentry jobs; schools and colleges; hospitals; wholesale and retail businesses; and government employers.

Employment of Carpenters in Michigan is expected to increase faster than the average for all occupations through the year 2014.  An average of 1,020 annual openings is expected, with 400 due to growth and 620 due to replacement of those who retire or leave the labor force for other reasons. Additional openings will occur as workers transfer to other jobs or occupations.  In late 2008, there were 823 apprentices in training for this occupation and 66 completed their training program during the prior 12 months.

Population and business growth will lead to a demand for more houses and other structures, thus increasing the demand for Carpenters.  More Carpenters also will be needed for alteration and maintenance work. However, because construction activity is sensitive to ups and downs in the economy, the number of job openings may change greatly from year to year. 

MICHIGAN'S AREA EMPLOYMENT OUTLOOK TO 2014

SOURCES OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Printed Occupational information is available upon written request from sources below.

Copyright © 2009 Michigan Department of Energy, Labor & Economic Growth