Human Resources and Skills Development Canada
Symbol of the Government of Canada

Quick Search - Results

Keyword(s): "7271"

7271 Carpenters

Carpenters construct, erect, install, maintain and repair structures and components of structures made of wood, wood substitutes, lightweight steel and other materials. They are employed by construction companies, carpentry contractors, and maintenance departments of factories, plants and other establishments, or they may be self-employed.

Example Titles

apprentice carpenter
carpenter
finish carpenter
journeyman/woman carpenter
maintenance carpenter
metal framer – carpentry
renovation carpenter
rough carpenter

View all titles

Main duties

Carpenters perform some or all of the following duties:
  • Read and interpret blueprints, drawings and sketches to determine specifications and calculate requirements
  • Prepare layouts in conformance to building codes, using measuring tools
  • Measure, cut, shape, assemble and join materials made of wood, wood substitutes, lightweight steel and other materials
  • Build foundations, install floor beams, lay subflooring and erect walls and roof systems
  • Fit and install trim items, such as doors, stairs, moulding and hardware
  • Maintain, repair and renovate residences and wooden structures in mills, mines, hospitals, industrial plants and other establishments
  • Supervise apprentices and other construction workers
  • May prepare cost estimates for clients.

Employment requirements

  • Completion of secondary school is usually required.
  • Completion of a three- to four-year apprenticeship program
    or
    A combination of over four years of work experience in the trade and some high school, college or industry courses in carpentry is usually required to be eligible for trade certification.
  • Trade certification is compulsory in Quebec and available but voluntary, in all other provinces and the territories.
  • Interprovincial trade certification (Red Seal) is also available to qualified carpenters.

Additional information

  • Progression to supervisory positions is possible with experience.
  • Red Seal trade certification allows for interprovincial mobility.

Classified elsewhere

  • Cabinetmakers (7272)
  • Supervisors of carpenters (in 7215 Contractors and Supervisors, Carpentry Trades)
  • Woodworking Machine Operators (9513)