A carpenter constructs or repairs infrastructure frameworks and buildings; including rafters, door frames, stairways and partitions. Carpenters may also work on installations such as drywall or kitchen cabinets. Other duties may include following clients blue prints, measuring and cutting wood or plastic and installing building framework with the use of rigging hardware and cranes.
Becoming a carpenter involves completing a four year apprenticeship to help you master the trade. During this time, apprentices learn the business side of carpentry as well as hands on work experience.
The various types of materials and tools that carpenters work with may pose risk of a workplace injury. Safety gear should be utilised at all times to help avoid these workplace injuries.
A carpenter will often use geometry in their work to help measure the circumference of objects, or to work out the area or length or materials. Carpenters must be skilled in geometry and math to excel in the field.
Generally, Carpenters and other tradesmen will be sent home in the case of severe weather such as rainfall; this practice is referred to as "stand down" in the industry. Employers are not liable to pay for these days of work.
A carpenters median salary in Australia sits at $54,692 per annum. Depending on skill and experience this can range between $34,695-$82,477.
Carpentry is a variable trade with many different career paths available. You may wish to focus on being a shopfitting carpenter, commercial framework carpenter or perhaps you will specialise to work on modern Eco projects.
It’s important to get advice for your specific situation. Check if you can make a risk-free compensation claim and get free initial advice from our Principal lawyer, Greg Smith.