Occupation Details
Cabinetmakers and Bench Carpenters
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.
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Interests
Realistic
Realistic occupations frequently involve work activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions. They often deal with plants, animals, and real-world materials like wood, tools, and machinery. Many of the occupations require working outside, and do not involve a lot of paperwork or working closely with others.
Conventional
Conventional occupations frequently involve following set procedures and routines. These occupations can include working with data and details more than with ideas. Usually there is a clear line of authority to follow.
Work Values
Achievement
Occupations that satisfy this work value are results oriented and allow employees to use their strongest abilities, giving them a feeling of accomplishment. Corresponding needs are Ability Utilization and Achievement.
Relationships
Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to provide service to others and work with co-workers in a friendly non-competitive environment. Corresponding needs are Co-workers, Moral Values and Social Service.
Support
Occupations that satisfy this work value offer supportive management that stands behind employees. Corresponding needs are Company Policies, Supervision: Human Relations and Supervision: Technical.
Salary & Job Outlook
Starting Salary
$32,110.00
New York StateMedian Salary
$47,710.00
New York StateExperienced Salary
$56,950.00
New York StateNational Average for Comparison
New York State Job Market Outlook
Jobs Right Now (2018)
4,350
professionals in NYFuture Job Growth (2030)
5,400
+105 jobs/yearNew Jobs Every Year
558
new opportunities yearlyGrowth Rate
0.2%
projected increasePreparation: Experience, Training, and Education
The list below outlines the prior educational experience required to perform in this occupation.
Some Training - Certificate or hands-on training
Experience Requirements
Some previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is usually needed. For example, a teller would benefit from experience working directly with the public.
Education Requirements
These occupations usually require a high school diploma.
Training Details
Employees in these occupations need anywhere from a few months to one year of working with experienced employees. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.
Transferrable Skills and Experience
These occupations often involve using your knowledge and skills to help others. Examples include orderlies, counter and rental clerks, customer service representatives, security guards, upholsterers, tellers, and dental laboratory technicians.
School Programs
The following lists school programs which are applicable to this occupation.
Licensing & Certification
State License and Certifications Requirements are not currently associated with this occupation.
Apprenticeship
Earn While You Learn: Discover hands-on training opportunities that combine paid work experience with classroom instruction for this career path.
AT North Atlantic States Carpenters Training Fund (Hauppauge)
Hauppauge, NY
Announcement
The North Atlantic States Carpenters Training Fund will conduct a recruitment from February 4, 2025 through January 30, 2026 for fifty Cabinetmaker apprentices. Applications are available online at https://www.nasctf.org/ during the recruitment period. Applications can only be obtained and submitted on-line. Applicants who do not have Internet access may visit their local library or nearest New York State Department of Labor Career Center https://dol.ny.gov/career-centers) when open. Interested candidates must attend an in-person information session prior to submitting an electronic application. In person information sessions are given the first Monday of each month at 6:00 p.m., excluding legal holidays, during the recruitment period at NASCTF, 16 Corporate Circle, Albany, NY 12203; 21 Jetview Drive, Rochester, NY 14624; 52 Stone Castle Road, Rock Tavern, NY 12575; 270 Motor Parkway, Dept B, Hauppauge, NY 11788; or 6920 Princeton Court, Syracuse, NY 13212. If the first Monday falls on a holiday, the information session will occur at the second Monday of that month at 6:00 p.m. Please note, spaces are limited, and filled on a first come first serve basis. At the conclusion of the information session, a passcode will be given which is required to complete an on-line application. If any assistance is needed for completing the online application, please contact the NASCTF at (631) 952-9555 between the hours of 9 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., Monday thru Friday. All applications must be received no later than January 30, 2026.
Requirements
The Committee requires that applicants: Must be at least 17 years old. Must have ability to read, interpret and work from sketches, drawings or blue prints. Must have ability to use stationary and portable hand tools, as well as power tools. Must attest in writing that they are physically able to perform the work of a carpenter, which may include: Performing constant repetitive motions. Climbing and working from minimum heights of 10 feet. Lifting items -minimum of 50 lbs. Standing and stooping for prolonged periods of time. Must pass a drug test, at the expense of the sponsor, after selection and prior to enrollment in apprenticeship. If applicant tests positive, he/she cannot reapply for one year. Must be willing to attend required classes at the approved school. Must have reliable transportation and willing to travel to and from various job sites (in counties listed below) and required classes at the approved school. Must live in the geographical jurisdiction of the NASCTF, which include the counties of Clinton, Essex, Franklin, Hamilton, Albany, Columbia, Fulton, Greene, Montgomery, Rensselaer, Saratoga, Schenectady, Schoharie, Warren, Washington, Nassau, Suffolk, Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan, Ulster, Westchester, Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie, Niagara, Orleans, Genesee, Wyoming, Monroe, Livingston, Wayne, Ontario, Chemung, Schuyler, Steuben, Tompkins, Yates, Seneca, Cayuga, Cortland, Onondaga, Madison, Oswego, Broome, Chenango, Delaware, Otsego, Tioga, Oneida, Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, St. Lawrence. Must provide military transfer card or discharge form DD-214, if applicable, after selection and prior to enrollment in apprenticeship.
Additional Information
For further information, applicants should contact North Atlantic States Carpenters Training Fund at (631) 952-9555. Additional job search assistance can be obtained at your local New York State Department of Labor Career Center (see: https://dol.ny.gov/career-centers)
Program Dates
Contact Information
Hauppauge, NY 11788
AT Carpenters JATC of NYC & Vicinity
New York, NY
Announcement
The JATC for the NYC District Council of Carpenters (NYCDCC) will conduct a recruitment from September 10, 2025 through September 9, 2026 for 25 Carpenter (Piledriver/Dockbuilder);20 Linoleum, Resilient Tile,and Carpet Layer;3 Cabinet Maker; 10 Millwright apprentices. Applicants must attend in-person information session at the NYCDCC,395 Hudson Street(Clarkson Street entrance),NY, NY 10014.Information Sessions will be held on the 2nd Wednesday of each month from 9AM-10AM excluding months of Dec and Jan for all trades during the recruitment period.No entry is after 9AM. Off-site and virtual sessions may be added if necessary. Spaces are limited and filled on a first-come,first-served basis.After the session,a passcode will be given to complete an online application. Applicants must sign in during the in-person session to qualify.If not,the individual is disqualified. After the session,a passcode is given,which will allow them to access the application online which will be valid for 60 days from the date of the session.Applications are only available online during the recruitment at website listed here. Completed applications must be submitted and received through the website(www.nyccarpenterstrainingcenter.org)within 60 days from the date of the session.Failure to comply with this deadline will disqualify the individual.Applicants may only apply for one trade,and each application will be kept on file for two years.After that,the applicant must reapply. Applicants meeting all requirements will be scheduled for a later date interview.Applicant must be on time will be allowed only one interview. Failure to arrive on time for the interview will result in disqualification.Accepted applicants will receive an instruction sheet and a list of required original documents if accepted into the program.
Requirements
The Committee requires that applicants: Must be at least 17 years old at the time of application. Must have a high school diploma or a equivalency diploma (such as TASC or GED).Proof will be required after selection. Must be able to perform the work of the trade without posing a direct threat to the safety of themselves or others. Must be able to perform the work of a Carpenter: Working on scaffolds and in confined spaces. Working under conditions of inclement weather, such as rain, snow, cold, hear and direct sunlight. Performing constant repetitive motions. Climbing and working from heights. Lifting items minimum of 50 pounds. Standing and stooping for longer periods. Must pass a substance abuse screening, at the expense of the sponsor, within 48 hours of selection,at a site designated by the JATC. Applicants that do not pass the screening will be notified and disqualified. Must be able to read, hear and understand verbal instructions and warnings in English. Must provide proof (detailed examples) of any trade-related experience, certification,or education, after selection. Must sign an Apprentice handbook (subject to change). Must travel to off-site training and assume for costs in the event of cancellation,failure to attend,or failure to successfully complete the program. Must be a U.S. citizen or have the legal right to work in the United States.Proof will be required after selection. Must have reliable means of transportation to and from job sites and classes. Must provide DD-214,Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty,if applicable,after selection.
Additional Information
For further information, applicants should contact NYCDCC at (212) 727-2224.Job search assistance can be obtained at your local NYS Department of Labor Career Center(see: https://dol.ny.gov/career-centers)
Program Dates
Contact Information
New York, NY 10014
Skills
The list below includes the skills required by workers in this occupation; skills are what allow you to learn more quickly and improve your performance.
Operations Monitoring
Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
Quality Control Analysis
Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
Monitoring
Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Skill level is measured on a seven point scale, where one means 'some competence required for this occupation' and seven means 'a high level of expertise required for this occupation'.
Knowledge
The list below includes knowledge items, the principles and facts required by this occupation.
Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Building and Construction
Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
Production and Processing
Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
Mechanical
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
Design
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
Engineering and Technology
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
Knowledge level is measured on a seven point scale, where one means 'some competence required for this occupation' and seven means 'a high level of expertise required for this occupation'.
Work Environment
The list below includes the physical and social factors that influence the nature of work in this occupation.
Hover over or tap each factor to see its description.
Work Styles
Included in the list below are the personal work style characteristics that can affect how well a worker is likely to perform in this occupation.
Adaptability/Flexibility
Job requires being open to change (positive or negative) and to considerable variety in the workplace.
Attention to Detail
Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks.
Concern for Others
Job requires being sensitive to others' needs and feelings and being understanding and helpful on the job.
Cooperation
Job requires being pleasant with others on the job and displaying a good-natured, cooperative attitude.
Dependability
Job requires being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations.
Initiative
Job requires a willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges.
Integrity
Job requires being honest and ethical.
Persistence
Job requires persistence in the face of obstacles.
Self-Control
Job requires maintaining composure, keeping emotions in check, controlling anger, and avoiding aggressive behavior, even in very difficult situations.
Stress Tolerance
Job requires accepting criticism and dealing calmly and effectively with high-stress situations.
Tools & Technology
This list below describes the machines, equipment, tools, software, and information technology that workers in this occupation will use.
Tools
- Adjustable hand wrenches
- Adjustable jigs
- Angle dividers
- Awls
- Back saws
- Band clamps
- Bandsaws
- Bar clamps
- Bastard flat files
- Belt sanders
- Bench dogs
- Bench grinders
- Bench vises
- Biscuit joining machines
- Block planes
- Boring machines
- Bowl gouges
- Bowl lathes
- Braces and bits
- Burn-in knives
- Cam clamps
- Carpentry chisels
- Case clamps
- Chop saws
- Circular planes
- Circular saws
- Claw hammers
- Cold presses
- Combination planes
- Combination squares
Technology
- Computer aided design CAD software
- Computer estimation software
- Computerized maintenance management system CMMS
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Outlook
Duties
Duties are job behaviors describing activities that occur on multiple jobs. The generalized and detailed work activities described in the list below apply to this occupation.
- set up computer numerical control machines
- lay out woodworking projects
- measure and mark reference points or cutting lines on workpieces
- adjust production equipment/machinery setup
- set up production equipment or machinery
- monitor production machinery/equipment operation to detect problems
- understand machine setup instructions
- understand technical operating, service or repair manuals
- perform safety inspections in manufacturing or industrial setting
- examine products or work to verify conformance to specifications
- move or fit heavy objects
- prepare building surfaces for paint, finishes, wallpaper, or adhesives
- fabricate, assemble, or disassemble manufactured products by hand
- operate woodworking equipment/machinery
- build or install cabinets or related interior wood fixtures
- use hand or power woodworking tools
- use precision measuring tools or equipment
- use hand or power tools
- read blueprints
- read specifications
- read technical drawings
Tasks
The list below outlines specific tasks that a worker in this occupation is called upon to do regularly.
- Verify dimensions or check the quality or fit of pieces to ensure adherence to specifications.
- Produce or assemble components of articles, such as store fixtures, office equipment, cabinets, or high-grade furniture.
- Measure and mark dimensions of parts on paper or lumber stock prior to cutting, following blueprints, to ensure a tight fit and quality product.
- Set up or operate machines, including power saws, jointers, mortisers, tenoners, molders, or shapers, to cut, mold, or shape woodstock or wood substitutes.
- Establish the specifications of articles to be constructed or repaired, or plan the methods or operations for shaping or assembling parts, based on blueprints, drawings, diagrams, or oral or written instructions.
- Attach parts or subassemblies together to form completed units, using glue, dowels, nails, screws, or clamps.
- Estimate the amounts, types, or costs of needed materials.
- Reinforce joints with nails or other fasteners to prepare articles for finishing.
- Install hardware, such as hinges, handles, catches, or drawer pulls, using hand tools.
- Trim, sand, or scrape surfaces or joints to prepare articles for finishing.
- Cut timber to the right size, and shape and trim parts of joints to ensure a snug fit, using hand tools, such as planes, chisels, or wood files.
- Match materials for color, grain, or texture, giving attention to knots or other features of the wood.
- Perform final touch-ups with sandpaper or steel wool.
- Bore holes for insertion of screws or dowels, by hand or using boring machines.
- Repair or alter wooden furniture, cabinetry, fixtures, paneling, or other pieces.
- Dip, brush, or spray assembled articles with protective or decorative finishes, such as stain, varnish, paint, or lacquer.
- Draw up detailed specifications and discuss projects with customers.
- Design furniture, using computer-aided drawing programs.
- Apply Masonite, formica, or vinyl surfacing materials.
- Program computers to operate machinery.
Learning Resources
More information on this occupation may be found in the links provided below.
Woodworkers
Visit this link for additional information on this career from the Occupational Outlook Handbook; a publication produced and maintained by the United States Department of Labor.
Learn More