Carpenters construct and repair building frameworks and structures—such as stairways, doorframes, partitions, rafters, and bridge supports—made from wood and other materials. They also may install kitchen cabinets, siding, and drywall.
Because carpenters are involved in many types of construction, from building highways and bridges to installing kitchen cabinets, they work both indoors and outdoors. The work is sometimes strenuous, and carpenters have a higher rate of injuries and illnesses than the national average.
Although most carpenters learn their trade through an apprenticeship, some learn on the job, starting as a helper.
The median annual wage for carpenters was $42,090 in May 2015.
Employment of carpenters is projected to grow 6 percent from 2014 to 2024, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Increased levels of new homebuilding and remodeling activity will require more carpenters.
Explore resources for employment and wages by state and area for carpenters.
Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of carpenters with similar occupations.
Learn more about carpenters by visiting additional resources, including O*NET, a source on key characteristics of workers and occupations.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2014-2024 Edition
Interesting Fact
Before becoming an actress and comedian, Whoopi Goldberg worked as a bricklayer, a bank teller, and even as a makeup artist at a funeral parlor.
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