Helpers--Carpenters

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 AssistantCarpenter HelperCarpenter'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.
  • Hands-onOperate power tools including circular saws, drills, sanders, and screwguns following established safety protocols and carpenter direction.
  • KnowledgeApply building and construction principles when assisting with framing, finishing, and installation tasks on residential and commercial projects.
  • Hands-onExecute measurements and layout procedures using measuring tapes, levels, and squares to ensure accuracy in material preparation and placement.
  • MindsetRespond to carpenter instructions and work site communications demonstrating active listening and coordination to support workflow efficiency.
  • Hands-onPerform site cleanup and equipment maintenance tasks maintaining organized work areas and prolonging tool life through proper care.
  • KnowledgeApply basic mathematical calculations for material estimation and cutting when preparing lumber and materials according to project specifications.
  • MindsetEngage in collaborative work relationships with carpenters and construction team members maintaining professionalism and responsiveness to changing job site demands.
  • KnowledgeDemonstrate knowledge of public safety and construction site hazard mitigation by wearing appropriate personal protective equipment and following OSHA guidelines.
  • KnowledgeIdentify quality issues, structural defects, and safety hazards during inspection of equipment, materials, and work-in-progress.
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

MetricU.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
Tools & Technology

Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation

In-Demand Technology

Frequently requested by employers in job postings

Intuit QuickBooksLinuxMicrosoft AccessMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft SharePointMicrosoft WindowsMicrosoft WordOracle DatabaseSAP softwareSalesforce softwareUNIX

Technology Skills

Bosch Punch ListCost estimating softwareCraftsman CD EstimatorDrawing and drafting softwareJob costing softwareQuickenTurtle Creek Software GoldensealWord processing software

Tools & Equipment

Adjustable wrenchesAir compressorsBlock planesBraces and bitsBroomsCarpenters' chiselsCarpenters' levelsCaulking guns