Construction and Carpentry

Work Characteristics

Various types of construction activities fall within the scope of work of carpenters. From building bridges and highways to installing kitchen cabinets all tasks require the services of a carpenter. They repair and construct fixtures made of wood and various other materials. In a construction of a new building they are involved in the process of framing out windows, walls, doors, constructing frames for concrete to be poured into and setting up staircases.

Each task is different but all use similar basic techniques. Carpenters are highly skilled labor since they deal with the construction and repair of a wide variety of things.

Work Environment

Like most other building professions carpentry can be very strenuous. Climbing, bending, prolonged standing and frequent kneeling are necessary. It's also dangerous since carpenters face the risk of falling from heights and getting hurt from all the sharp tools that they use.

Education Requirements

Carpenters acquire their skills through both informal and formal carpentry training programs. Both on the job and classroom training are required. It can take up to 3-4 years to finish training. Formal training is most beneficial in acquiring jobs since it prepares candidates to perform a wide variety of tasks while complying with set standards. Another way of acquiring training is by assisting an established carpenter or a contractor who is ready to provide training on the job. Employers offer carpenters formal training to crease the overall performance of staff and thus get better deals. Lots of technical vocational training institutes also provide courses in carpentry.

Job Prospects and Salary

Opportunities are expected to be plenty for carpenters in the next 10 year period. Since very few are willing to take up such a strenuous job chances of more openings are there. With new homes, buildings, offices and factories coming up there should be no dearth of job opportunities for carpenters. A lot depends on what parts of the country have maximum construction activity.

The salary starts as low as less than $10.36/hr and goes up as high as $28.65/hr.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor.