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Carpenter

Carpenters construct, erect, install, finish and repair wooden and metal structures and fixtures on residential and commercial buildings.

They may also carry out work on large concrete, steel and timber structures such as bridges, dams, power stations and civil engineering projects.

With further training and experience, a carpenter can become a building supervisor, building or construction manager, building inspector, technical teacher, estimator, building contract administrator or purchasing officer.

TASKS

Carpenters may perform the following tasks:

construct formwork into which concrete is poured
set out an outline of the building on the ground of the site, using string and pegs to allow for excavations
build floors, wall frameworks (timber or metal) and roofs, and lay timber floors
read plans and specifications to determine the dimensions, materials required and installation processes to be followed
install metal and timber windows, sashes and doors
construct and erect prefabricated units, such as cottages and houses
cut materials with hand and power tools, and assemble, nail, cut or shape parts
install door handles, locks, hardware, flooring underlay, insulating material and other fixtures
maintain and sharpen tools

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

enjoy practical work
able to cope with the physical demands of the job
able to work with your hands
good sense of balance and ability to work at heights
good at mathematics
good health and eyesight
able to work as part of a team

Very Good Outlook for this career!

Interest Area

EDUCATION & TRAINING

To become a carpenter you usually have to complete an apprenticeship in Carpentry.

Entry requirements may vary, but employers generally require Year 10.

Additional Information

In the ACT, carpenters must either hold, or work under someone who holds, a valid builder's licence. Contact the ACT Planning Authority for more information. In NSW, carpenters carrying out work valued at more than $1000 must either hold, or work under someone who holds, a valid building contractor's licence issued by NSW Fair Trading. Contact NSW Fair Trading for more information.

Workers in the construction industry must undergo safety induction training and be issued with a Construction Induction Card (CIC). In NSW, training is conducted by Registered Training Organisations authorised by SafeWork NSW. In the ACT, training is provided by Registered Training Organisations approved by WorkSafe ACT.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Carpenters may work as subcontractors or may be employed by building and construction companies. Most carpenters are employed on housing projects, construction and civil engineering projects, and in maintenance roles in large factories, hospitals, institutions and private homes. Many carpenters specialise in areas such as framing, fixing or formwork.