Manufacturing
Cabinetmaker

Cabinetmaker and Woodworker

Have a keen eye for detail? Are you handy with tools and woodworking? Learn a craft that will allow you to put both to work!

Design, build, and install custom cabinets, furniture, and fine woodwork using hand tools, power tools, and woodworking machinery.

Salary Range

$30,000 $55,000

per year (10th–90th percentile)

Median Salary

$36,710

per year

Growth Outlook

Average Growth

2024–2034 projected

1. Work with a variety of materials. 2. Work with a variety of tools. 3. Work with a variety of people

Tasks & Responsibilities

  • Verify dimensions or check the quality or fit of pieces to ensure adherence to specifications.
  • Produce or assemble components of articles, such as store fixtures, office equipment, cabinets, or high-grade furniture.
  • Measure and mark dimensions of parts on paper or lumber stock prior to cutting, following blueprints, to ensure a tight fit and quality product.
  • Set up or operate machines, including power saws, jointers, mortisers, tenoners, molders, or shapers, to cut, mold, or shape woodstock or wood substitutes.
  • Establish the specifications of articles to be constructed or repaired, or plan the methods or operations for shaping or assembling parts, based on blueprints, drawings, diagrams, or oral or written instructions.
  • Attach parts or subassemblies together to form completed units, using glue, dowels, nails, screws, or clamps.
  • Reinforce joints with nails or other fasteners to prepare articles for finishing.
  • Install hardware, such as hinges, handles, catches, or drawer pulls, using hand tools.
  • Trim, sand, or scrape surfaces or joints to prepare articles for finishing.
  • Match materials for color, grain, or texture, giving attention to knots or other features of the wood.

Tools of the Trade

Power sawsPlanesWood chiselsHand clampsPower routersSawsHold down clampsCompassesSquaresBiscuit jointersPower planesScrewdriversCalipersDrilling machinesUtility knivesMilling machinesCold pressTracer or duplicating or contouring latheBoring machinesPower nail gunsPower sandersPositioning jigSanding machinesC clampsMill saw fileBandsaw wheelStaple gunsPaint application systemMicrometersPutty knivesTape measuresDrill press or radial drillAutomatic lathe or chucking machineRazor knivesLevelsViscosimetersSawing machinesPower trimmersScribersBandersGrinding wheelsSanding blocksBench dogRulersPower grindersGogglesPaint brushesBlade sharpenerMetal markers or holdersPunches or nail sets or driftsEar plugsHand or push drillScroll sawGrinding machinesShearsPneumatic nail driversPaint rollersAdjustable wrenchesCutting machinesT squaresPaint sprayersClaw hammerCheesegrater fileMiter sawAugersBevelsBastard cut fileBelt sanderPower screwgunsMalletsBench visesAwlsSafety glassesPower drillsMoisture metersPlumb bobsLocking pliersPersonal computersTemplates

Knowledge Areas

Mathematics

Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications. 80/100

Building and Construction

Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads. 71/100

Production and Processing

Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods. 67/100

Design

Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models. 61/100

Mechanical

Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance. 61/100

Engineering and Technology

Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services. 51/100

Education and Training

Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects. 36/100

English Language

Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar. 31/100

Administration and Management

Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources. 30/100

Public Safety and Security

Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions. 28/100

Work Profile

Physicality
7/10
Training
6/10
Structure
9/10

Start your Cabinetmaker career today

Classet connects skilled trades workers with employers hiring now. Apply and interview 24/7 with our AI-powered platform.