Carpenters
SOC Code: 47-2031Also known as:
Aluminum Siding Applicator, Aluminum Siding Installer, Aluminum Siding Mechanic, Amusement and Recreational Prop Maker, Asbestos Siding Mechanic
Median Annual Salary
$59,310
+4.5% growth (2024-2034)
74K
Openings/Year
959K
Current Jobs
What Carpenters Do
Construct, erect, install, or repair structures and fixtures made of wood and comparable materials, such as concrete forms; building frameworks, including partitions, joists, studding, and rafters; and wood stairways, window and door frames, and hardwood floors. May also install cabinets, siding, drywall, and batt or roll insulation. Includes brattice builders who build doors or brattices (ventilation walls or partitions) in underground passageways.
💰 Salary
$59,310
Median annual wage (2024)
📈 Job Growth
+4.5%
Faster than average
🎓 Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Typical entry-level requirement
🚀 Annual Openings
74K
Projected average per year
📚 On-the-Job Training
Apprenticeship
Expected training period
Employment Projections (2024-2034)
Current Employment (2024)
959,000
Projected Employment (2034)
1,002,100
Related Careers
Brickmasons and blockmasons
$60,800 •
+3.2% growth
Drywall and ceiling tile installers
$58,140 •
+4.2% growth
Sheet metal workers
$60,850 •
+2.4% growth
Structural iron and steel workers
$62,700 •
+4.4% growth
Structural metal fabricators and fitters
$49,900 •
-16.3% growth
Top Skills Required
Active Listening
Critical Thinking
Monitoring
Coordination
Reading Comprehension
Daily Tasks & Responsibilities
- Follow established safety rules and regulations and maintain a safe and clean environment.
- Measure and mark cutting lines on materials, using a ruler, pencil, chalk, and marking gauge.
- Assemble and fasten materials to make frameworks or props, using hand tools and wood screws, nails, dowel pins, or glue.
- 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.
- Verify trueness of structure, using plumb bob and level.
- 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.
- Install structures or fixtures, such as windows, frames, floorings, trim, or hardware, using carpenters' hand or power tools.
- Maintain records, document actions, and present written progress reports.
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 Carpenters
These degree programs can prepare you for a career as a carpenters:
Carpentry/Carpenter
5,356 degrees awarded •
215 colleges offer this program
Best Colleges for Becoming a Carpenters
Ranked by Repit grade, then by degrees in related programs. These are the top-rated colleges that prepare students to become carpenters.
Want this ranking as a spreadsheet? Investor Pro+ members can export any Repit table to CSV. See plans →
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do carpenters make?
The median annual salary for carpenters is $59,310.
What education do carpenters need?
Most carpenters positions require a high school diploma or equivalent.
Common degree programs include Carpentry/Carpenter.
Is becoming carpenters a good career choice?
Carpenters is projected to see +4.5% job growth from 2024 to 2034,
which is about average for all occupations. With approximately 74,100 job openings expected annually,
there are good opportunities for those entering the field.
What are the best colleges for carpenters?
Top colleges for aspiring carpenters include
Emily Griffith Technical College, Uintah Basin Technical College, Tulsa Technology Center, Indian Capital Technology Center-Muskogee, Green Country Technology Center.
These schools are ranked based on their Repit grade and the number of graduates in related programs.
What other job titles are similar to carpenters?
Carpenters may also be known as: Aluminum Siding Applicator, Aluminum Siding Installer, Aluminum Siding Mechanic, Amusement and Recreational Prop Maker, Asbestos Siding Mechanic, Assembled Wood Products Repairer, Beam Builder, Boat Builder, Boat Carpenter, Boat Carpenter Mechanic, Boat Finisher, Boat Joiner, Boat Repairer, Boatwright, Bowling Alley Floors Installer, Bracer, Braddisher, Brattice Builder, Bridge Carpenter, Bridge Mechanic.
These titles often refer to similar roles with varying responsibilities or specializations.