Carpenter, Trades ​/ Skilled Labor

Construct, erect, install, and repair structures and fixtures of wood, plywood, and wallboard, using carpenter's hand tools and power tools. Read blueprints, drawings and sketches to fully grasp building requirements. Take measurements and calculate the size and amount of material needed. Cut, shape and smooth lumber and other material (e.g. fiberglass) according to required measurements

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.

Measure and mark cutting lines on materials, using a ruler, pencil, chalk, and marking gauge.

Install structures or fixtures, such as windows, frames, floorings, trim, or hardware, using carpenters' hand or power tools.

Build or repair cabinets, doors, frameworks, floors, or other wooden fixtures used in buildings, using woodworking machines, carpenter's hand tools, or power tools.

Select and order lumber or other required materials.

Assemble and fasten materials to make frameworks or props, using hand tools and wood screws, nails, dowel pins, or glue.

Remove damaged or defective parts or sections of structures and repair or replace, using hand tools.

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.

Finish surfaces of woodwork or wallboard in houses or buildings, using paint, hand tools, or paneling.

Arrange for subcontractors to deal with special areas, such as heating or electrical wiring work.

Prepare cost estimates for clients or employers.

InNew York State, the average annual wage for this occupation is: $35,860for entry level workers and $77,700for experienced workers.

A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required to enter the occupation. Vocational-technical schools offer associate’s degrees in carpentry.

Carpenters can also learn on the job or through apprenticeships.

Several groups, such as unions and contractor associations, sponsor apprenticeship programs. For each year of a typical program, apprentices must complete a predetermined number of hours of technical training and paid on-the-job training. Apprenticeship program requirements differ based on the type of program and by region. Apprentices learn carpentry basics, blueprint reading, mathematics, building code requirements, and safety and first aid practices.

They also may receive specialized training in creating and setting concrete forms, rigging, welding, scaffold building, and working within confined work spaces. All carpenters must pass the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 10-hour safety course

In New York State based on the total number of annual openings and its growth rate, employment prospects for this occupation are described as Very Favorable.
During 2016, there were approximately 67,580 Construction Carpenters employed in New York State.
We estimate that in 2026 there will be 73,710 employed in New York State. This represents an increase of 610 job(s) each year, and a total of 6,970 job opening(s) each year.

Local BOCES/Career & Technical Education Programs

This is a selection of businesses in the region offering this career. That does not mean that there are currently positions available. For information on companies who arehiring right now, please visit