Career outlook for carpenter or joiner
Figures and forecasts for roles at the same level, which require similar skills and qualifications.
Average UK salary
£30,680
Currently employed in Scotland
26,100
Average UK salary
£30,680
Currently employed in Scotland
26,100
"LMI for All" supplies our salary and employment status information. "Oxford Economics" supplies job forecasts and employment figures.
Due to COVID-19 the jobs market is constantly changing. Some of the information may not reflect the current situation.
What's it like?
You would install and repair the wood inside homes, shops and bars. Or you could build sets for film and TV.
You could work in people’s homes or on construction sites fitting out shops, bars and offices.
You’d carefully measure the wood and cut it to the required size and shape to make things like doors, floors and fitted furniture. Then you’d put it together and fix it inside the building.
You'll need an eye for detail, good maths skills for working out measurements and the ability to follow technical plans.
You would:
- Cut and shape timber for floorboards, skirting boards and window frames
- Make and assemble doors, window frames, staircases and fitted furniture
- Fit wooden structures, like floor and roof joists, roof timbers, staircases, partition walls, and door and window frames (first fixings)
- Install skirting boards, door surrounds, doors, cupboards and shelving, as well as door handles and locks (second fixings)
- Build temporary wooden supports to hold concrete in place while it sets, for example building foundations (formwork)
- Make and fit interiors in shops, bars, restaurants, offices and public buildings
- Construct stage sets for theatre, film and TV productions
Taking an organised approach to your work and being aware of health and safety requirements would be important.
Working conditions
Hours
Environment
Travel
UK employment status
Full-time
40%
Part-time
1%
Self employed
59%
Create a qualification route
We’ve found some examples of the qualifications that could help you get this job.
Discover my routeTop skills
Here are some of the skills needed for this job. Sign in to see how your skills match up.
- Verbal communication
- Creative
- Designing
- Working with numbers
- Observation
- Attention to detail
- Developing a plan
- Implementing ideas
- Managing resources
- Time management
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Entry requirements for courses can change. Always contact the college, university or training provider to check exactly what you’ll need.
Qualifications
The normal entry route is a Modern Apprenticeship recognised by the Scottish Building Apprenticeship Training Council (SBATC).
There are no formal qualifications required to enter this apprenticeship but some employers may ask for qualifications at SCQF level 4/5.
You usually need to pass an aptitude test to enter this apprenticeship.
Useful subjects
- English
- Maths
- Sciences subjects
- Practical technologies subjects
You will also need
You must hold a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card or equivalent and pass a health and safety test to work and train on construction sites.
Helpful to have
Qualifications that show an understanding of the industry and practical ability such as Skills for Work Construction (SCQF Level 4/5).
A driving licence can be useful.
Related industries
