Help carpenters by performing duties requiring less skill. Duties include using, supplying, or holding materials or tools, and cleaning work area and equipment.
SOC: 47-3012.00
Common Job Titles
Carpenter Assistant
Carpenter Helper
Carpenter's Helper
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
Hands-onHandle construction materials, tools, and equipment on carpentry job sites under carpenter supervision, supporting installation and assembly tasks.
Developing
Hands-onOperate power tools including circular saws, drills, sanders, and screwguns following established safety protocols and carpenter direction.
Developing
KnowledgeApply building and construction principles when assisting with framing, finishing, and installation tasks on residential and commercial projects.
Developing
Hands-onExecute measurements and layout procedures using measuring tapes, levels, and squares to ensure accuracy in material preparation and placement.
Developing
MindsetRespond to carpenter instructions and work site communications demonstrating active listening and coordination to support workflow efficiency.
Developing
Hands-onPerform site cleanup and equipment maintenance tasks maintaining organized work areas and prolonging tool life through proper care.
Developing
KnowledgeApply basic mathematical calculations for material estimation and cutting when preparing lumber and materials according to project specifications.
Developing
MindsetEngage in collaborative work relationships with carpenters and construction team members maintaining professionalism and responsiveness to changing job site demands.
Developing
KnowledgeDemonstrate knowledge of public safety and construction site hazard mitigation by wearing appropriate personal protective equipment and following OSHA guidelines.
Developing
KnowledgeIdentify quality issues, structural defects, and safety hazards during inspection of equipment, materials, and work-in-progress.
Emerging
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Helpers--Carpenters (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
24,610
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $31,540. 25th percentile: U.S. $35,870. 50th percentile: U.S. $41,600. 75th percentile: U.S. $46,780. 90th percentile: U.S. $52,380. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$31,540
10% of workers earn the following or more
$52,380
Workers on average earn
$42,080
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Building and Construction4.6/5
Mechanical4.1/5
Mathematics4.1/5
Transportation4.0/5
English Language3.9/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
