Carpenters build and install the wooden and metal structures and fixtures that make up commercial or residential buildings. They may also finish and repair wooden structures such as foundations, walls, roofs, windows and doors. They plan and construct floors and frameworks, roofs and ceililngs, which may be made from either timber or metal, and may also lay timber floors. Carpenters also cut and shape the materials they work with, and assemble or nail them into place. They may also install door handles, locks, flooring underlay, insulating material and other fixtures.
Specialisations
- Carpenter and Joiner
- Joiner
- Woodworker
Knowledge Skills and Attributes
- to be good with their hands
- problem solving skills
- physical fitness and the ability to undertake manual labour for extended periods
- good communication and teamwork skills
- planning and organisational skills
- accuracy and efficency
Education Training Requirements
In order to become a carpenter you usually need to complete an apprenticeship in carpentry. Apprenticeships combine workplace training and paid employment. Training may be delivered entirely in the work place, or some aspects of training may be delivered on the premises of a registered training organisation, such as a TAFE. Apprenticeships are available in:
- Carpentry Fixing (Housing)
- Carpentry Formwork (Housing)
- Carpentry Framing (Housing)
- Carpentry (Housing)
which take twenty four months to complete through full-time study or thirty six months to complete through school-based study.
Apprenticeships and Traineeship
As an apprentice or trainee, you enter into a formal training contract with an employer. You spend most of your time working and learning practical skills on the job and you spend some time undertaking structured training with a registered training provider of your choice. They will assess your skills and when you are competent in all areas, you will be awarded a nationally recognised qualification.
