Red Seal

Carpenters construct, maintain and repair structures made of wood and wood substitutes, steel, concrete and other materials. They make foundations, lay out beams, subflooring, walls and roofs, and fit and install doors and other access points.

You have precision and mechanical skills.

You enjoy working indoors and outdoors.

You have good balance, physical strength and creativity.

Responsibilities

  • Read and interpret blueprints and drawings.
  • Calculate requirements and prepare layouts to follow building codes.
  • Measure, cut, shape and assemble materials.
  • Build foundations, framework and concrete forms such as tunnels and bridges.
  • Fit and install windows, doors, flooring, walls, stairs, roof systems, mouldings and hardware.
  • Maintain, repair and renovate residences and wooden structures.

Key Skills & Attributes

  • Reading and strong communication skills.
  • Numeracy skills.
  • Physical strength.
  • Attention to detail.
  • Problem-solving skills.
  • Dexterity.
  • Mechanical skills.

Entering the Trade

  • Is there a training pathway for this trade?: Yes
  • Number of Levels: 4
  • Total Required Apprenticeship Hours: 7,200
  • Total Hours Required to Challenge Exam as a Trade Qualifier: 10,800

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Salary Range

$38.44 – $40.69/hr

*Based on 2023 collective agreement Journeyperson hourly rate

Projected Construction Worker Retirements

~7,800 by 2032*

*BuildForce Canada 10-Year Workforce Outlook for NS

Did You Know?

Carpenters are usually on construction projects from the start to the finish. If you are handy or enjoy using hand and power tools, carpentry may be for you.