Carpenter's Helper

Your Fit

Income

$42K

Preparation

Some

Growth

-5.3%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Carpenter's Helper?

A Carpenter's Helper, also known as a Carpenter Assistant, provides essential support to carpenters in the construction and repair of structures made from wood and other materials. They perform a variety of tasks under supervision, helping to ensure efficient and quality carpentry work.

Sample job titles:

Carpenter Assistant, Carpenter Helper, Carpenter's Helper

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Carpenter's Helper.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Carpenter's Helper earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) in 2024 was...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$32K per year	$36K per year	$42K per year	$47K per year	$52K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $7.9K below the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Carpenter's Helper do?

Work environment

Carpenter's Helpers typically work on construction sites, residential homes, commercial buildings, or in carpentry workshops. The job involves both indoor and outdoor work, often in physically demanding conditions. Helpers must follow safety guidelines to avoid injuries and may be required to work at heights or in confined spaces.

Quick task list

Assists in measuring, cutting, and assembling materials.
Carries tools and materials, setting up workstations.
Cleans work areas and maintains tools and equipment.
Follows instructions to help with specific carpentry tasks.
Assists in installing structures like walls, floors, and cabinetry.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Residential Carpentry Helper: Assisting in home-building and renovation projects.
Commercial Carpentry Helper: Supporting carpentry work in commercial construction, like office buildings.
Finish Carpentry Helper: Specializing in the finer aspects of carpentry, such as trim and molding.
Rough Carpentry Helper: Focusing on the structural aspects of carpentry, such as framing.
Green Building Carpentry Helper: Working on eco-friendly and sustainable construction projects.

Description

The role of a Carpenter's Helper is crucial in the construction and woodworking industries. It serves as an entry-level position that allows individuals to gain practical experience and learn the trade from experienced carpenters. Helpers get hands-on experience with various tools and materials, learn the intricacies of construction plans and blueprints, and understand the importance of precision and safety in carpentry.

This occupation offers a unique blend of physical labor and skill development. As a helper, you are constantly moving, lifting, and engaging in various activities that contribute to the completion of construction projects. The job provides an opportunity to develop a strong foundation in carpentry skills, which can lead to advancement opportunities within the trade.

Becoming a Carpenter's Helper is a great way to enter the carpentry field without needing extensive formal education. It provides valuable on-the-job training and exposure to a range of carpentry techniques and materials. For those interested in a career in construction, this role offers a practical and rewarding starting point.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Gaining hands-on experience and learning new skills.
Being part of a team and contributing to tangible construction projects.
The opportunity for physical activity and working in various environments.

You might make a good Carpenter's Helper if you are...

Interested in construction and enjoy working with your hands.
Physically fit and comfortable with manual labor.
Keen to learn carpentry skills and follow instructions carefully.
A good team player with strong communication skills.
Ready to work in a variety of settings, both indoors and outdoors.

Pros:

Opportunity to learn carpentry skills on the job.
Potential pathway to becoming a skilled carpenter.
Varied work environments and tasks.

Cons:

Physically demanding work with potential risk of injury.
Exposure to outdoor weather conditions and sometimes working at heights.
Often requires early start times and may involve long hours.

How to become a Carpenter's Helper

Typical education

No formal education beyond a high school diploma is usually required. However, vocational training or an apprenticeship can be beneficial. On-the-job training is common, where skills are learned directly from experienced carpenters.

High school preparation

Courses:

Woodshop or industrial arts to gain basic carpentry skills.
Mathematics for accurate measurements and calculations.
Physical education to build physical stamina and strength.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Joining a construction or woodworking club.
Participating in community service projects involving building or repair work.
Engaging in sports or physical activities to develop endurance.

Preparation after high school

Consider vocational training programs in carpentry or construction.
Seek apprenticeship opportunities to gain hands-on experience.
Pursue entry-level positions in construction companies to learn on the job.

More resources

United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America (UBC) - Offers apprenticeship and training information.
Occupational Information Network (O*NET Online) - Provides detailed job descriptions and educational pathways.
National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) - Resources and educational programs for those interested in residential construction.
Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) - Offers resources and advocacy for construction professionals.

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Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.