The construction field is both physically and mentally demanding. Individuals interested in pursuing this field need to have the right skills, knowledge and attitude to find work on a regular basis.

Nature of the Work

A carpenter is responsible for the building and repair of structures and items in the home or for more industrial work such as highways. Carpenters need to learn how to read and work with blueprints or other instructions from designers or other supervisors. A bulk of their work is involved in working with materials, making sure that the cuts and joining of the parts is accurate and true to the plans.

Carpenters may choose to specialize in homes or larger projects. In homes, carpenters are expected to be adept in a wide variety of tasks including framing, putting up doors, installing cabinets and more. On the other hand, carpenters in larger projects are more specialized in certain tasks such as building brattices or creating the frames to pour concrete in. In order to find a consistent flow of work, carpenters must be flexible enough to work in either field.

Working in this field involves stamina and endurance. Carpenters can expect to work several hours a day on their feet, on their knees, on their back or climbing scaffolding. Risk is part of their work, always taking care of handling materials, tools and where they are working. There is also the strain of being continuously exposed to the elements when working outdoors.

• Career Resources Network: Carpenters ��� The local government of Montana gives an overview of a carpenter�۪s career. Included is information regarding working conditions, employment, physical and academic requirements, wages and trends.
• A Day in the Life of a Carpenter ��� This webpage gives readers a peak into a typical work day for a carpenter.

Different types of Carpenters

Pursuing a career in carpentry can take many forms. Finish carpenters are involved with making exact measurements of joints and pieces for creating furniture and cabinets. Trim carpenters are responsible for creating trims and molding. A more specialized occupation is that of the cabinetmaker, who does all work creating storage furniture such as wardrobes and dressers. Much like the name implies, ship carpenters do maintenance and repair on board ships. In films and movies, there is the scenic carpenter who does work on sets for television shows, plays and movies. Another type of carpenter is the framer, who builds the framework of structures. With a specialization in concrete work, a formwork carpenter is involved with creating falsework and shuttering. Carpenters that have a deep understanding of repairing stringed instruments are known as luthiers. One rising specialization is known as green carpentry. This involves using sustainable materials and building techniques in construction.

Training, Other Qualifications, and Advancement

Preparing for a career in this field starts in high school. Some of the essential subjects involve math and English, physics, shop work, drafting and reading blueprints. The next step is to take courses in trade school or in a similar institution. Apprenticeships may be taken informally under the guidance of a more experienced carpenter or through formal four-year programs offered by some companies. Coursework and fieldwork are combined to provide a more holistic form of training. In class, students will learn how to read blueprints, carpentry techniques and first aid. On the field, trainees will learn the various tasks, materials, tools and equipment used.

The journey-level carpenter is the position achieved after completing the apprenticeship program. This type of carpenter has in-depth knowledge of the materials, tools and techniques involved in the field as well as the existing building codes in the area. They are also adept in interpreting and working with blueprints and similar documents and provide instruction to less-skilled assistants.

Next is the lead carpenter. They are in charge of a small crew of carpenters and assistants. In addition to the tasks of a journey-level carpenter, the lead is responsible for organizing and coordinating the work of the crew as well as preparing and ordering materials. He is also involved with inspecting the work, ensuring that the workmanship is up to standard.

Last is the supervising carpenter. Much like the lead carpenter, the supervising carpenter is involved with crews but on a larger scale. They work with the lead carpenter as well as the engineering and design offices. Part of their work involves interpreting complicated blueprints and scheduling the work for the crew in addition to doing some of the lead carpenter�۪s responsibilities.

• How Do I Enter a Career in Carpentry? Video ��� This video informs readers on what courses to take if interested in pursuing a career in carpentry.
• Classification and Qualification Standards ��� A career in carpentry requires knowledge and skill in tools, equipment, lumber, laws and the field itself. This PDF states the three different classifications of carpenters depending on their skill, knowledge and experience in the field.
• Trade Carpenters ��� Provides details on what makes great apprentices and the different requirements for application to training programs.

 

Employment

Carpenters can find work in a variety of industries. These include commercial and industrial construction, residences, home improvements, contracting services, framing and government groups and organizations among others. Flexibility is key in this field, looking for work that may involve different responsibilities. A third of carpenters are also self-employed, looking for new clients and employer�۪s once one project is over.

• Construction Careers: Carpenters ��� This PDF file provides a broad range of information on pursuing a career in carpentry. This includes information on common tasks, requirements in skill and knowledge, a description of the work environment, wages, trends, training and more.

 

Job Outlook

Finding work in this field is dependent on the economic stability of the area. Work is also contractual in nature, adding to the challenge. However, there is a constant need for carpenters because of the turnover rate. Some carpenters retire, transfer to other fields or leave for other reasons.

• Construction Carpenters ��� This section of the Tennessee Career Information Delivery System website includes information regarding the work environment, tasks, interests, work styles, values and wages among others.
• Carpentry AAS Degree/Diploma ��� This overview of the course provides information regarding the carpentry program and what to expect when working on the field.

 

Earnings and Wages

As a contractual line of work, the amount of earnings received is dependent on the number of hours spent working. This may rise or fall depending on the weather or changes in the economy. Various states and regions have varying rates of wages which can be higher or lower than the national standard. In 2008, the national median rate is approximately $18. Montana�۪s hourly rate is slightly over $15 an hour. In Tennessee, the rate is around $14. These rates also change depending on the position and level of expertise. A foreman or lead carpenter may earn around $39 an hour while general foremen or the supervising carpenter earns around $44 an hour.

• Occupational Outlook Handbook 2010-11 Edition: Carpenters ��� The website provides an all-inclusive guide to the industry and how to pursue a career in this field.
• Alaska Job Center Network ��� Designed for the local government of Alaska, this webpage gives an idea of what wages apprentices can expect to receive.

 

Related Occupations

The work of a carpenter requires skill in working with materials such as wood, cement, metal, stone and other materials. When work is low, skilled carpenters may find work in similar lines of work. Other occupations worth considering include that of masons for bricks, stone and cement, operating construction equipment and installing drywall and tiles. It is also possible to find work as an electrician or plumber.

• Michigan Jobs & Career Portal: Carpenter ��� The local government in Michigan has provided information on what a carpenter does, job openings, working conditions and requirements for application, earnings and sources for additional information among others.
• Ship Carpenters and Joiners ��� Provides a list of alternative occupations for individuals working as ship carpenters or joiners. Also included is a profile of the profession, tasks and responsibilities, requirements for the job, salary, employment trends and more.

 

Sources of Additional Information

For more information about work and the field, take a look into the following websites:

• One Trade, Many Crafts ��� The United Brotherhood of Carpenters offers a variety of apprenticeships for individuals interested in improving their skills.
• Inside the Carpenter�۪s Toolbox ��� This PDF file provides fun facts and a glossary of terms related to the field.
• Career Opportunities for Carpenters ��� Provides information on how carpenters are promoted and tips to getting a promotion.