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Carpentry & Woodworking Careers

Framing, finish, cabinetmaker, custom woodworker — every carpenter path.

Carpentry covers framing the structures buildings rely on, finish work that shapes their interiors, cabinetmaking, and custom woodworking — each a distinct trade with its own apprenticeship and tooling.

8 careers in this collection

Compare carpentry paths by speciality, work setting, and pay structure. Most are entered through apprenticeship rather than a 4-year degree. Income scales with reputation, regional demand, and ability to run a crew or shop.
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Woodworker (Fine Furniture)

Growing

Build high-end custom furniture

Up to $150k
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Carpenter

Growing

Build and repair structures from residential homes to commercial buildings

Up to $80k✨ Bright Outlook
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Finish Carpenter

Growing

A skilled tradesperson specializing in trim, cabinets, and finish work.

Up to $80k
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Framing Carpenter

Growing

A skilled tradesperson specializing in structural framing for buildings.

Up to $80k
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Cabinetmakers and Bench Carpenters

Growing

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.

Up to $61k
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Woodworkers

Growing

All woodworkers not listed separately.

Up to $55k
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Helpers--Carpenters

Growing

Help carpenters by performing duties requiring less skill.

Up to $54k
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Woodworking Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders

Growing

Set up, operate, or tend woodworking machines, such as drill presses, lathes, shapers, routers, sanders, planers, and wood nailing machines.

Up to $52k

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