What does a carpenter do? Duties, pay, apprenticeship and outlook
Carpenters construct, install and repair building frameworks and structures made from wood and other materials. A high school diploma or equivalent is typical, and most learn on the job or through a multi-year apprenticeship that unions and contractor associations sponsor.
At a glance
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| O*NET-SOC code | 47-2031.00 (Carpenters) |
| Typical entry-level education | High school diploma or equivalent |
| Training | Apprenticeship |
| Licensing | No general license listed in the OOH |
| Median annual wage | $60,580 per year (May 2025, BLS) |
| Projected growth | 4 percent, 2025 to 2035 (as fast as average) |
| Number of jobs | 889,700 (2025) |
| Projected openings | About 62,800 per year, on average, over the decade |
What does a carpenter do?
The Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH) lists these duties:
- Follow blueprints and building plans to meet the needs of clients.
- Install structures and fixtures, such as windows and molding.
- Measure, cut and shape wood, plastic and other materials.
- Construct and install building frameworks, including walls, floors and doorframes.
- Inspect and replace damaged framework or other structures and fixtures.
- Instruct and direct laborers and other construction helpers.
Work environment
Largest employers by share of jobs: Self-employed workers 25 percent; residential building construction 23 percent; building finishing contractors 13 percent; nonresidential building construction 12 percent; foundation, structure, and building exterior contractors 10 percent. Apprentices start at lower pay than fully trained carpenters and earn more as they gain experience.
Education, training and licensing
- Education: A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required. Useful courses include mathematics and mechanical drawing, and some vocational-technical schools offer associate's degrees in carpentry.
- Apprenticeships: Carpenters usually learn on the job or through apprenticeships that unions and contractor associations sponsor. Each year includes required technical training hours and paid on-the-job training. Apprentices learn blueprint reading, math, building codes, and safety and first aid.
- Safety: All carpenters must pass the OSHA 10-hour safety course.
- Other requirements: Some carpenters first work as construction laborers or helpers, and a driver's license may be needed to travel to jobsites. Optional specialty certifications are listed on CareerOneStop.
- Advancement: Paths include first-line supervisor, lead carpenter, independent contractor and general construction supervisor.
Skills that matter
The OOH names business skills for self-employed carpenters, attention to detail, dexterity and hand-eye coordination, interpersonal skills, math skills, physical strength, problem-solving skills and reading comprehension. O*NET lists the knowledge, skills and tasks for this occupation in its Carpenters summary.
How much do carpenters make?
BLS reports a median annual wage of $60,580 per year (May 2025). The lowest 10 percent earned less than $40,410 and the highest 10 percent earned more than $99,910.
Median annual wage by industry, May 2025 (BLS):
| Industry | Median annual wage |
|---|---|
| Nonresidential building construction | $63,780 |
| Building finishing contractors | $60,880 |
| Residential building construction | $60,600 |
| Foundation, structure, and building exterior contractors | $58,790 |
See the OOH pay tab and Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics for more detail. Our guide on how to research pay explains how to read these numbers.
Job outlook
BLS projects employment to grow 4 percent from 2025 to 2035, as fast as the average for all occupations, with about 62,800 openings projected each year on average over the decade.
How to get hired
- Find an apprenticeship. Ask local unions, contractor associations and builders about sponsored programs and what they require to apply.
- Complete the OSHA 10-hour course. The OOH says all carpenters must pass it, so list it on your resume.
- Show the math and the trade. Measuring, reading plans and basic trigonometry matter. If you have no trade history, see our no experience resume guide; if you are switching trades, see career change resume.
- Search steadily. Use our find a job fast routine and search jobs on LiveRec.
Related occupations
Construction and building inspectors; Construction laborers and helpers; Drywall installers, ceiling tile installers and tapers; Roofers; Flooring installers and tile and stone setters; Woodworkers.
Related guides on LiveRec: plumbers, electricians.
Frequently asked questions
Do carpenters need a license? The OOH lists no general license. Check your state and local rules, especially if you plan to work as a contractor.
How long is a carpenter apprenticeship? The OOH describes apprenticeships with required technical training hours and paid on-the-job training each year. Ask the sponsoring program for its length.
Do carpenters need a college degree? No. A high school diploma or equivalent is typical.
Is carpentry a good career? BLS projects 4 percent growth from 2025 to 2035, as fast as average, and 25 percent of carpenters are self-employed.
Related guides
Sources
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook, Carpenters: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/construction-and-extraction/carpenters.htm (accessed 31 October 2026)
- BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics: https://www.bls.gov/oes/ (accessed 31 October 2026)
- O*NET OnLine, Carpenters: https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/47-2031.00 (accessed 31 October 2026)
This is general information, not legal, tax or immigration advice. Rules change and your situation may differ. Consult a licensed attorney or qualified adviser.