Carpenters construct, maintain and repair structures made of wood and wood substitutes, steel, concrete and other materials. They can work with construction companies, carpentry contractors and maintenance departments of factories, plants and other establishments, or they can be self-employed.

Responsibilities

  • Read and interpret blueprints and drawings
  • Calculate requirements and prepare layouts to follow building codes
  • Measure, cut, shape and assemble materials
  • Build foundations, house framework and concrete forms such as tunnels and bridges
  • Fit and install windows, doors, flooring, walls, stairs, roof systems, mouldings and hardware
  • Maintain, repair and renovate residences and wooden structures in places such as mills, mines, hospitals and industrial plants

What You’ll Need

Entrance Requirements

Usually a combination of 4+ years of work experience in the trade, plus some high school, college or industry courses in carpentry to be eligible for certification

Apprenticeship Program: 3 to 4 years, includes technical training, on-the-job training and exam. Journeyperson certificate awarded after successful completion. As an apprentice, you also earn while you learn.

Key Skills & Attributes

(technical training and on the job)

  • Reading and strong communication skills
  • Numeracy skills
  • Physical strength
  • Attention to detail
  • Problem-solving skills
  • Dexterity
  • Mechanical skills

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Hourly Pay

$16 – $32/hr

Projected Construction Worker Retirements

~8,100 by 2029*

*BuildForce Canada

You have precision and mechanical skills.

You enjoy working indoors and outdoors.

You have good balance, physical strength and creativity.

Did You Know?

Carpenters are usually on construction projects from the start to the finish. If you are handy or enjoy using hand and power tools, carpentry may be for you.