Cabinetmakers and bench carpenters
SOC Code: 51-7011Also known as:
Accordion Maker, Antique Furniture Repairer, Antique Repairer, Boat Oar Maker, Bow Maker
Median Annual Salary
$46,020
-1.6% growth (2024-2034)
8K
Openings/Year
86K
Current Jobs
What Cabinetmakers and bench carpenters Do
Cut, shape, and assemble wooden articles or set up and operate a variety of woodworking machines, such as power saws, jointers, and mortisers to surface, cut, or shape lumber or to fabricate parts for wood products.
💰 Salary
$46,020
Median annual wage (2024)
📈 Job Growth
-1.6%
Decline
🎓 Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Typical entry-level requirement
🚀 Annual Openings
8K
Projected average per year
📚 On-the-Job Training
Moderate-term on-the-job training
Expected training period
Employment Projections (2024-2034)
Current Employment (2024)
86,000
Projected Employment (2034)
84,700
Related Careers
Carpenters
$59,310 •
+4.5% growth
Furniture finishers
$42,530 •
-3.3% growth
Model makers, wood
$51,850 •
-4.5% growth
Patternmakers, wood
$52,520 •
-5.0% growth
Woodworking machine setters, operators, and tenders, except sawing
$40,440 •
-1.8% growth
Top Skills Required
Operations Monitoring
Quality Control Analysis
Monitoring
Operation and Control
Speaking
Daily Tasks & Responsibilities
- Verify dimensions or check the quality or fit of pieces to ensure adherence to specifications.
- Produce or assemble components of articles, such as store fixtures, office equipment, cabinets, or high-grade furniture.
- Measure and mark dimensions of parts on paper or lumber stock prior to cutting, following blueprints, to ensure a tight fit and quality product.
- Set up or operate machines, including power saws, jointers, mortisers, tenoners, molders, or shapers, to cut, mold, or shape woodstock or wood substitutes.
- Establish the specifications of articles to be constructed or repaired, or plan the methods or operations for shaping or assembling parts, based on blueprints, drawings, diagrams, or oral or written instructions.
- Attach parts or subassemblies together to form completed units, using glue, dowels, nails, screws, or clamps.
- Reinforce joints with nails or other fasteners to prepare articles for finishing.
- Install hardware, such as hinges, handles, catches, or drawer pulls, using hand tools.
- Trim, sand, or scrape surfaces or joints to prepare articles for finishing.
- Match materials for color, grain, or texture, giving attention to knots or other features of the wood.
Technology & Tools
📚 Entry-Level Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Most common requirement
🎯 Recommended Education
High School Diploma
O*NET recommended level
Degree Programs for Cabinetmakers and bench carpenters
These degree programs can prepare you for a career as a cabinetmakers and bench carpenters:
Cabinetmaking and Millwork
464 degrees awarded •
40 colleges offer this program
Best Colleges for Becoming a Cabinetmakers and bench carpenters
Ranked by Repit grade, then by degrees in related programs. These are the top-rated colleges that prepare students to become cabinetmakers and bench carpenters.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much do cabinetmakers and bench carpenters make?
The median annual salary for cabinetmakers and bench carpenters is $46,020.
What education do cabinetmakers and bench carpenters need?
Most cabinetmakers and bench carpenters positions require a high school diploma or equivalent.
Common degree programs include Cabinetmaking and Millwork.
Is becoming cabinetmakers and bench carpenters a good career choice?
Cabinetmakers and bench carpenters is projected to see -1.6% job growth from 2024 to 2034,
which reflects some decline in the field. With approximately 8,100 job openings expected annually,
there are good opportunities for those entering the field.
What are the best colleges for cabinetmakers and bench carpenters?
Top colleges for aspiring cabinetmakers and bench carpenters include
Michigan Career and Technical Institute, Central Piedmont Community College, Pinellas Technical College-Clearwater, Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology, Central Carolina Community College.
These schools are ranked based on their Repit grade and the number of graduates in related programs.
What other job titles are similar to cabinetmakers and bench carpenters?
Cabinetmakers and bench carpenters may also be known as: Accordion Maker, Antique Furniture Repairer, Antique Repairer, Boat Oar Maker, Bow Maker, Cabinet Assembler, Cabinet Builder, Cabinet Designer, Cabinet Finisher, Cabinet Installer, Cabinet Maker, Cabinet Professional, Cabinet Specialist, Cabinet Worker, Cabinetmaker, Carpenter, Chair Maker, Chair Mechanic, Chair Mender, Counter Top Maker.
These titles often refer to similar roles with varying responsibilities or specializations.