What does a Framing Carpenter do?
Framing Carpenters can work on residential and commercial construction projects, in furniture manufacturing and in cabinetry shops. They construct the structural supports for buildings, while Cabinet Builders and Finish Carpenters often work on interior renovation projects. Framing Carpenters may be employed by a framing or general contractor, or they can work on their own and negotiate with suppliers, clients, engineers and other specialists, such as architects. They may work with a variety of hand and power tools to rough cut the lumber, shape furniture components or join pieces together in structures.
Framing Carpenter skills and qualifications
To be successful, any Framing Carpenter you hire needs a combination of training, skills and experience that includes:
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A high school diploma and on-the-job apprenticeship
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Training and experience with power and hand tools, such as saws, drills, chisels, fasteners and sanders
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Knowledge of wood species, including manufactured wood products such as plywood and pressure-treated lumber
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Joinery skills and knowledge of fasteners, including nails, wood glue and various dry joints
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Creativity and the ability to make and follow design plans
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Ability to follow health and safety codes
Framing Carpenter experience requirements
Each state has licensing requirements for Framing Carpenters that include a set number of hours of on-the-job training. This is usually acquired through an apprenticeship with an established contractor. Experience usually covers the basics of general carpentry skills. Certain specialties, such as cabinetry and furniture design, require in-depth training specific to them. Qualified Framing Carpenters will usually gain experience in these areas by working for a specialist contractor after earning their basic carpentry certification.
Framing Carpenter education and training requirements
Most Framing Carpenters’ training starts with a high school diploma or GED. This is usually followed by a structured apprenticeship program that includes classroom instruction and practical experience. Specialist training is available from trade schools and community colleges and may culminate in a certificate or an associate degree in carpentry. The curriculum usually includes academic instruction on local and national building codes, safety standards and construction regulations. Framing Carpenters who specialize in a particular field may also have extra training in that area. Some Framing Carpenters acquire industry certificates, such as an OSHA Safety Certificate or a Graduate Master Builder (GMB) certificate.
Framing Carpenter salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a Framing Carpenter is $60,265 per year. The exact rate of pay can vary depending on the candidate’s level of experience, education and the location the work is being done.
Job description samples for similar positions
If a Framing Carpenter is not exactly the job you’re looking to fill, you might need someone with a different set of skills. Check out these related job titles to find the candidate that’s right for your next hire:
Framing Carpenter job description FAQs
Who does a Framing Carpenter work with?
Framing Carpenters work with a wide variety of other specialists. They commonly interact with architects and building engineers, interior designers and professionals in other building trades, such as drywall installers, plumbers, roofers and flooring techs.
Who supervises Framing Carpenters?
Framing Carpenters can work alone or as independent contractors. They might also answer to a Shop Manager or Construction Foreman on a job site. Many Framing Carpenters are independent tradespeople who work under the supervision of a general contractor who has overall responsibility for construction projects.
Where do Framing Carpenters do their work?
Framing Carpenters often work on job sites where new buildings are under construction. Finish Carpenters often work indoors, doing interior work for clients. Furniture makers and cabinetry specialists do most of their work in a shop, possibly with on-site installation work.
Do Framing Carpenters work long hours?
Most Framing Carpenters work during normal business hours, and they rarely have to put in night work or extensive overtime after the sun goes down. Self-employed Carpenters can work any hours they choose.
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