Carpenter resume example
Michael M. Loren
Address: 133 Clinton St., Hoboken, NJ 07030
Phone: (201) 792-0800
Email: [email protected]
Current job: Carpenter at Hable Construction
Objective
To secure a position as a carpenter and be part of an exceptional establishment that boasts a great reputation and that prioritizes its commitment to the community.
Skills
- Experience in carpentry, woodworking
- Residential, commercial, and municipal construction projects
- Bilingual (Spanish, English)
- Excellent public relations, written and verbal skills
- Experience providing workshops, classes
- In-depth knowledge of the entire construction process from drafting and material selection to technique and safety
- Accuracy in reading blueprints, project plans, and outlines
- Working with apprentices
- Superb communication and interpersonal skills
- Own and have experience with a diverse array of tools and equipment
- Excellent organizational and time management skills
- Ability to work comfortably on scaffolding, ladders
- Can lift more than 80 pounds
- Ability to work independently or in a team environment
- Committed to cultivating relationships with clients
- Excellent driving and attendance record
- Flexible and adaptable to change
- Ability to communicate effectively and coordinate between clients, architects, and subcontractors
- Familiar with workplace safety policies and procedures
Work Experience
Lead Construction Carpenter, 2020-present
Hable Construction, Brooklyn, NY
Duties and Responsibilities
- Trim work, hang doors, tiling, demolition, plastering, framing
- Work in all areas of construction projects
- Ceiling, door, and window installation
- Work from blueprints, drawings, sketches and design specifications
- Choose materials in line with safety priorities and cost control
- On-site supervision of subcontractors
- Demolition work
Construction Carpenter, 2017-2020
Park Avenue Building and Roofing LLC, Brooklyn, NY
Duties and Responsibilities
- Constructing, repairing, installing and restoring doors, windows, walls, stairs, cabinets, roofs, shelves and floors
- Handle all tasks in all aspects of construction projects
- Read blueprints
- Commercial and residential carpentry projects
- Timber construction using cypress
- Steel stud framing, hanging and finishing drywall
Construction Carpenter, 2015-2017
Skyline Industries LLC, Brooklyn, NY
Duties and Responsibilities
- Follow design specifications and read plan blueprints
- Operate tools like lather, drills, sanders, and planers
- Time manage in order to adhere to construction schedule
- Doors, cabinets, shelves, stairways, counters closets and wall panels
- Commercial and industrial carpentry
- Interior and exterior trim and siding installations
Education
James Madison High School, Brooklyn, NY
High School Diploma
2011 to 2015, 3.8 GPA
Courses
- Financial Accounting
- Managerial Accounting
- Interpersonal Communication
- Introduction to Spreadsheets
- Introduction to Databases
Senior Carpenter Resume Sample
Asa Shepherd
Address: Melrose, MA 02176
Phone: (731) 4586599
Email: [email protected]
Current job: Senior Carpenter at Cummins in Roseside
Objective
My objective is to find a job in my desired field with a company that will provide the opportunity to grow and develop professionally. To be considered for this position, I am willing to relocate if necessary.
I am looking for a Senior Carpenter position where I can use my expertise and skills to help the company succeed. I have the ability to supervise others, manage time well, and have excellent problem solving skills. I am eager to learn new skills and have an eye for details.
Work Experience
Senior Carpenter, 2018 – present
Cummins in Roseside
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Construct and install wooden beams, columns, and timbers, as well as wooden stairs and balconies
- Cut and install windows and doors
- Build structures from scratch
- Design and create pieces of furniture
- Repair structures, such as removing damaged parts
- Build furniture from scratch
- Install roofing materials
- Install or repair insulation materials
- Install or repair siding materials
Senior Carpenter, 2014 – 2018
Marriott International in Roseside
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Carries out construction work by cutting and shaping wooden boards
- Measures and marks boards for cutting
- Hacks and saws boards with a hand saw
- Uses a hammer and nails to assemble the framework of a building
- Installs drywall, concrete, and other materials on the inside of a building
- Places tiles on the outside of a building
Entry Level Senior Carpenter, 2012 – 2014
Kellogg in Roseside
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Conducts research to determine the most appropriate equipment for a project.
- Plans, organizes, and supervises the installation of building materials and fixtures
- Inspects construction to ensure quality and safety
- Assists in estimating costs of materials and labor
- Proposes work plan for projects
- Prepares layouts, drawings, and blueprints
- Identifies and corrects unsafe working conditions
Skills
- Skillfully use a variety of power tools, such as circular saws, table saws, and jointers
- Cut and shape wood with hand or power hand tools
- Set up and operate a variety of saws
- Install hardware such as locks, hinges, and handles
- Maintain a safe work site by complying with safety rules
- Use tools like hammers, nails, drills, and wrenches
- Estimate materials needed
Carpenter / Handyman Resume Sample
Pawel Good
Address: Woonsocket, RI 02895
Phone: (260) 7794131
Email: [email protected]
Current job: Carpenter / Handyman at Cintas in South Norworth
Objective
A carpenter who is highly adept at repair and remodeling, I am an experienced handyman who can tackle any task with ease. My extensive knowledge of the trade enables me to work quickly and efficiently with minimal supervision.
I am committed to my clients’ best interests and always deliver quality workmanship on time and on budget.
Work Experience
Carpenter / Handyman, 2018 – present
Cintas in South Norworth
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Repair and maintain carpentry, door, window, and roofing installations
- Build and install cabinets, shelves, and countertops
- Install new flooring, including carpeting or hardwood floors
- Fix cracks in plaster or drywall
- Install drywall to cover holes in walls or ceilings
- Attach doors to frames
- Place insulation in attics and walls
Carpenter / Handyman, 2014 – 2018
Xerox in South Norworth
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Build and repair structures made of wood, block, brick, stone, metal, or other materials
- Erect scaffolding as needed
- Install doors and windows
- Keeps jobsite clean and organized
- Ensures safety of homeowners and others in the vicinity of the project
- Use of power tools for construction or repair
- Performs light carpentry tasks
Entry level Carpenter / Handyman, 2012 – 2014
Jones Financial (Edward Jones) in South Norworth
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Responsible for all maintenance and repairs to residential homes
- Maintains budget and handle any necessary purchases
- Works alongside the homeowners with repairs
- Diagnose any home issues
- Builds or repairs furniture
Skills
- Experience with structural and architectural carpentry
- Experience with building construction
- Experience with building construction methods and materials
- Knowledge of building codes and ordinances
- Ability to read and interpret blueprints
- Ability to work independently or as part of a crew
Head Carpenter Resume Sample
Geoffrey Parsons
Address: Queensbury, NY 12804
Phone: (339) 8298667
Email: [email protected]
Current job: Head Carpenter at Dick’s Sporting Goods in Pailcester
Objective
I am a skilled and knowledgeable carpenter and millworker. My skills include framing, roofing, and finish carpentry. I will be able to provide you with the best quality of work.
Work Experience
Head Carpenter, 2018 – present
Dick’s Sporting Goods in Pailcester
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Determine the work schedule and job assignments for the crew of carpenters
- Set and enforce safety standards for the crew
- Hire, train, and supervise up to 10 carpenters
- Measure materials for jobs, such as lumber and sheetrock
- Measure building spaces for materials and equipment
- Install and nail planks, shingles, and other siding
- Cut and nail roofing
Head Carpenter, 2014 – 2018
Morgan Stanley in Pailcester
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Plan and organize projects for a construction site
- Train and supervise workers
- Order and maintain supplies
- Supervise cleanup at the end of a project
- Inspect work to ensure it meets safety standards
- Hire, train, and schedule employees to ensure workload is evenly distributed
- Provide estimates for jobs
- Measure to ensure materials are used efficiently
Entry level Carpenter, 2012 – 2014
Consolidated Edison in Pailcester
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Participate in hiring events to recruit qualified candidates
- Adhere to building codes and safety standards
- Maintain property by performing general property maintenance duties
- Manage construction project schedules
- Coordinate renovations, property upkeep, and repairs
- Manage workers to maintain property
- Coordinate with contractors to complete physical construction project
Skills
- Operate a variety of power and hand tools
- Create decorative moldings
- Use miter saw to make precise cuts
- Work with joists
- Work with subfloors
- Work with wood studs
- Work with insulation boards
- Work with drywall boards
- Work with sheetrock
- Use chalk line to make straight lines on surface
- Use level to make sure material is even
Carpenter Supervisor Resume Sample
Bernadette Dunlop
Address: Cary, NC 27511
Phone: (784) 9847764
Email: [email protected]
Current job: Carpenter Supervisor at Netflix in North Oakcester
Objective
I am an experienced Carpenter Supervisor with the ability to lead and inspire a team of carpenters, as well as provide guidance and direction. I am dedicated and determined to provide the best possible results every day, and I am able to work independently or as part of a team.
Work Experience
Carpenter Supervisor, 2018 – present
Netflix in North Oakcester
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Plan projects, oversee budget, and coordinate work schedules
- Interview, hire, and train new employees
- Maintain company safety policies at all times
- Supervise project teams and provide ongoing feedback
- Be knowledgeable of all company procedures and policies
- Direct site work to maximize productivity
- Ensure that the job site is safe for all workers at all times
- Establish and maintain relationships with subcontractors
- Manage all aspects of the organizational structure from wages
Carpenter Supervisor, 2014 – 2018
Corning in North Oakcester
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Oversee the work of the team
- Maintain safety standards
- Control cost of work
- Verify work is completed in a timely manner
- Recognize and deal with safety hazards in the workplace
- Deal with customer complaints
- Meet production quotas
Entry level Carpenter, 2012 – 2014
DXC Technology in North Oakcester
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Establishing and enforcing safety procedures for your crew
- Overseeing the carpentry work crew
- Setting up and maintaining work sites
- Assigning jobs to each member of your crew
- Making sure that all work is completed on time and within budget
- Perform any necessary carpentry work required to complete your projects
Skills
- Ability to read blueprints
- Ability to troubleshoot
- Demonstrated ability to implement safety procedures
- Knowledge of framing, drywalling, insulation, and other trade skills
- Ability to direct and oversee on-site construction
- Ability to use power tools
- Knowledge of first aid and CPR
- Knowledge of blueprint reading, drafting, and layout techniques
Construction Carpenter Resume Sample
Shyam Salinas
Address: North Attleboro, MA 02760
Phone: (995) 493-0593
Email: [email protected]
Current job: Construction Carpenter at Marathon Petroleum in Kingfield
Objective
I have been a Construction Carpenter for 10 years, and I have been working as a General Laborer for the last year. My skills include operating equipment such as nail guns and saws to cut and shape materials and measuring, cutting, and fitting materials together. I would like to work as a Construction Carpenter because I love the hands-on aspect of the job and the satisfaction of seeing the final product.
Work Experience
Construction Carpenter, 2018 – present
Marathon Petroleum in Kingfield
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Constructing the framework of buildings
- Building stairs and making sure frames are in order
- Cutting boards to size for installation
- Installing roof trusses
- Installing roofing materials
- Putting together temporary scaffolding
- Building forms for pouring concrete
- Covering forms with plywood sheets
- Pouring concrete for sidewalks
Construction Carpenter, 2014 – 2018
PepsiCo in Kingfield
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Construct and install wood, steel, and concrete building frameworks
- Construct and install exterior or interior finishings such as drywall or plaster
- Apply finishing materials such as paint, plaster, and tile
- Install and repair ladders and scaffolding
- Install and repair electrical wiring and plumbing fixtures
- Cut, shape, and fit materials to fabricate parts of buildings
- Pound nails, bolts, and screws to build structures from wood, steel, or other metal
Entry-level Construction Carpenter, 2012 – 2014
Ameren in Kingfield
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Construct, erect, demolish, and repair structures and fixtures from wood, metal, brick, stone, concrete, and other substances.
- Construct structures from blueprints or detailed drawings or sketches provided by a project architect or engineer.
- Plan the work on a construction site by making detailed drawings and calculations of the physical properties of building materials.
- Fit and assemble parts of structures to prepare them for construction or demolition.
- Draw up and review
Skills
- Experience working with power tools
- Experience working with hand tools
- Ability to work logs using a chainsaw
- Ability to work with a hammer and nail gun
- Ability to use a tape measure
- Ability to lay down mortar or concrete
- Ability to make precise cuts using a circular saw
- Ability to use a drill
Master Carpenter Resume Sample
Eddie Ortiz
Address: Methuen, MA 01844
Phone: (231) 527-5266
Email: [email protected]
Current job: Master Carpenter at Aramark in Southingburgh
Objective
I am a skilled carpenter with 10 years of experience in residential and commercial construction. I have the skills and knowledge to deliver quality work on any project. I am an eager and quick learner, and am always seeking ways to improve my skills.
Work Experience
Master Carpenter, 2018 – present
Aramark in Southingburgh
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Provide carpentry expertise in commercial construction projects
- Design, specify, and administer the construction of building facades
- Build and install prefabricated or prefinished exterior building components
- Build and install prefabricated or prefinished interior building components
- Install commercial storefronts in accordance with specifications
- Install commercial doors to meet programming needs
- Inspect carpentry work for quality assurance purposes
- Prepare work site for construction projects, using hand tools and power
Master Carpenter, 2014 – 2018
Masco in Southingburgh
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Construct, repair, and maintain all wood-based structures
- Install and repair all wood components of buildings
- Estimate materials needed for projects
- Construct stairs, decks, and platforms
- Supervise and train apprentice carpenters
- Determine the most efficient way to construct projects
- Design building layouts, following all safety regulations
- Fit and finish work with attention to detail
Entry-level Carpenter, 2012 – 2014
Huntsman in Southingburgh
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Conducts carpentry, roofing, and framing work
- Takes measurements and prepares sketches for construction
- Constructs buildings and interior structures
- Builds shelves and bookcases
- Repairs and restores buildings
Skills
- Woodworking
- Construction
- Fabrication
- Carpentry
- Cabinetry
- Tiling
- Construction Project Management
- Electrical wiring
- HVAC installation
- Framing
- Estimating
- Leadership
Carpenter Foreman Resume Sample
Paulina Valdez
Address: Henrico, VA 23228
Phone: (711) 241-1332
Email: [email protected]
Current job: Carpenter Foreman at Nucor in Holtshampton
Objective
I have four years of experience as a Carpenter Foreman, which includes overseeing the work of up to 20 carpenters. I have also supervised up to six skilled laborers on large, complex projects. I have excellent skills in carpentry, including the use of tools and equipment, knowledge of construction materials, and an ability to estimate materials, time, and costs.
Work Experience
Carpenter Foreman, 2018 – present
Nucor in Holtshampton
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Create, lay out, and assemble products for construction.
- Construct frames, doors, stairways, and cabinets.
- Builds interior and exterior surfaces of buildings.
- Install roofing, siding, shingles, or vinyl products.
- Install windows, door frames, HVAC systems, and insulation.
- Measure and mark cutting lines to cut wood for framing.
- Measure building plans to determine dimensions.
Carpenter Foreman, 2014 – 2018
L Brands in Holtshampton
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Develops and implements occupational safety and health programs as needed
- Develops and implements occupational safety and health programs as needed
- Conducts safety meetings to discuss new procedures and changes in safety rules
- Oversees safety inspections.
- Develops and implements occupational safety and health programs as needed
- Conducts safety meetings to discuss new procedures and changes in safety rules
- Oversees safety inspections
Entry-level Carpenter Foreman, 2012 – 2014
U.S. Bancorp in Holtshampton
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Supervise all carpenter activities on the project
- Communicate with the client about any issues that arise with the project
- Ensure that all carpenters have the necessary skills for their job on the project
- Ensure that all carpenters have the proper experience for their job on the project
- Meet with the client to discuss any changes or problems with their project
- Assist carpenters in understanding their responsibilities on the project
Skills
- Heavy equipment operation skills
- Complete understanding of safety regulations for heavy equipment operation
- Ability to read blueprints
- Ability to work in an outdoor environment in extreme conditions
- Knowledge of various carpentry techniques
- Ability to operate a variety of tools including hand tools, power tools, and machinery
Carpenter Apprentice Resume Sample
Bailey Johnston
Address: Kennewick, WA 99337
Phone: (233) 4712677
Email: [email protected]
Current job: Carpenter Apprentice at Qurate Retail in Backmouth
Objective
As a carpentry apprentice, I have the knowledge and experience to provide high quality work. I am skilled in framing, finishing, and interior carpentry. I am able to work independently, as well as in teams for efficient project completion.
I am a skilled carpenter with experience in framing, finishing, and interior carpentry. I have the ability to work independently as well as in teams with the competence needed to complete projects efficiently.
Work Experience
Carpenter Apprentice, 2018 – present
Qurate Retail in Backmouth
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Read blueprints and specifications to determine materials and tools needed
Assist in the construction of buildings, bridges, and other structures
Measure lengths of wood members for cutting
Install wooden framework for a roof, a floor, or a staircase
Mix concrete or mortar
Drill holes in pieces of wood to fasten them together
Cut wood pieces to the required size with a power saw
Fix, replace, or install window sashes
Carpenter Apprentice, 2014 – 2018
FedEx in Backmouth
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Help with the construction of new structures
- Repair and maintain structures such as bridges, power lines, and buildings
- Prepare drawings and provide technical advice for project specifications
- Aid in the installation of building fixtures and equipment
- Install and maintain windows
- Install new driving surfaces of wood, metal, or synthetic materials
- Install prefabricated sections of buildings or components of buildings
- Install and repair fences and other types of enclosures
Entry level Carpenter, 2012 – 2014
Cigna in Backmouth
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Maintain a clean and organized work environment
- Perform manual labor to cut, measure, or otherwise modify wood or metal materials
- Measure, mark, and cut materials to specified dimensions for use in construction of buildings
- Cut joints to fit together pieces of wood for construction of building
- Construct wood forms to hold concrete in place
- Prepare surfaces of concrete slabs that will be cast by pouring concrete into the form
- Erect scaffolding for various construction projects
Skills
- Cutting, measuring, and marking materials for cutting
- Measuring the dimensions of surfaces, holes, and joints
- Using power tools to cut, chisel, and shape wood
- Applying finishes to wood surfaces to protect them
Carpenters Resume Objectives
Why are you applying for this job? If you want to write an objective that catches the eye of the recruiter, compose one from the perspective of the employer. Therefore, it should answer the question:
“Why should we hire you?”
The objective statement is just a small section of the resume. Usually, it is composed of only 3 to 4 sentences. On the other hand, when properly structured, it can greatly influence the decision of the HR Officer to explore your application further.
Here are top 4 tips on how to write an eye-catching resume objective:
1. Review The Job Post
In order to answer the question, “Why should we hire you?” it is important to let the prospective employer know that you meet their qualifications. The summary of requirements for the position can be found in the job post.
For example:
Alvarez and Sons Construction For Immediate Hiring: Carpenter Required Skills:
- 2-years of experience in construction work.
- Experience in both residential and commercial construction.
- Proficient in Power Tools such as Circular Saw, Reciprocating Saw, Jigsaw, a Power Drill, and various drill bits.
- Can use Air Compressor and a Nail Gun.
- Can construct cabinets, drawers, doors, and window frames.
- Experience in furniture-making is a big plus.
Most likely, the priorities are listed in order. Based on the job post, it seems that Alvarez and Sons Construction Company has placed more value on experience. Thus, you could start out your objective statement in this manner:
Example of a good Carpenter Resume Objective
Experienced carpenter with 3 years in the construction industry working on both residential and commercial projects. In addition to the basic tools in carpentry – hammer, tape measure, nail puller, squares, and chisels, I am also proficient in handling power tools including various types of drills – circular, jigsaw, and reciprocating – and drill types.
As you can see, you have already ticked off 3 of the top requirements on the job post checklist. This will certainly raise the eyebrows of the person reading your resume.
2. Read Up On The Company
Visit the company’s website and its social media pages. Learn as much as you can about the company:
What are its latest development projects?
What are the milestones in the company’s history?
How is the work culture like?
How do employers feel about the company?
By learning more about the company, you will get an idea of its personality. You will have an idea of how to develop the tone of your resume. If the company appears to nurture a happy, optimistic, and positive workplace, try to keep your objective statement light and friendly in tone.
3. Mention a Few Milestones
Were you involved in a number of high-profile projects in your career? It would be a great idea to mention them in your objective.
Eye catching Carpenter Resume Objective example
Experienced carpenter with 3 years in the construction industry working on both residential and commercial projects. Among these were the Wainwright Presidential Suites, the Sky Tower at Sunset, and the residential projects at Greenville Subdivision. In addition to the basic tools in carpentry – hammer, tape measure, nail puller, squares, and chisels, I am also proficient in handling power tools including various types of saws – circular, jigsaw, and reciprocating – and drill types.
Construction is a wide industry but it is a small world.
Companies are keenly aware of the top projects during the last few years. Seeing these projects mentioned in your resume objective would certainly make the recruiter consider your application.
4. Identify Your Best Soft Skills
We already made mention of your hard skills – proficient with power tools and various types of saws. Do not forget your best soft skills or the personality attributes that accurately exemplify how you work as a carpenter.
Among the most popularly mentioned are the following:
- Detail-Oriented
- Physically Fit
- Highly-Focused
- Results Oriented
- Dedicated
It is not enough to write down the soft skills. You have to make sure you live out these soft skills because if you are granted the interview, the Hiring Manager can easily tell if you are being truthful or not.
Resume Skills for Carpenters
The best carpenters learn how to work with wood at a very young age. Many start out as apprentices to experienced carpenters. As their confidence grows, they become more comfortable handling tools. Over time, creativity becomes a strong skill.
Working with wood and handling various tools are just a few of the important skills that an employer wants to see. Carpentry best exemplifies manual labour but there is more to this job than physical work.
In addition to having the requisite technical skills, the best candidates are those who can also put the ideal attributes on the table.
1. Ability to Handle Basic Carpentry Tools
In order to be a good Carpenter, you must have strong fundamentals. This means you should have the ability to handle basic tools for carpentry. These are the tools that every aspiring Carpenter starts out with. Among these tools include the following:
- Hammer
- Measuring Tape
- Standard Saw
- Marking Tools
- Spirit Levels
The basics form the foundation of carpentry work. They are used in almost every project. As you gain experience, you can easily transition to more complex tools.
2. Ability to Work with Power Tools
There is a good reason why they are called “Power” tools. Yes, many are handheld much like a hammer and a standard saw but a Power Tool is actuated from a power source.
It takes precision and control to use these types of equipment properly. Without the correct training and experience, you can get injured while using a Circular Saw, a Jigsaw, or a Reciprocating Saw.
If you have the ability and know-how in operating the different kinds of power saws and power drills, it will increase your overall value to a construction company. You can also be hired by a furniture maker.
3. Good Mathematical Skills
A company will not hire you only on the basis of your ability to handle tools. For the reason that construction projects require accuracy and precision, you will also measure, cut, or shape wood and other materials. You will put together frameworks and doorways. You need to be good at Math in order to make the correct calculations and measurements.
What happens if a piece of framework does not fit? You will have to go through the calculations and find out how much to cut or adjust in order to make the framework fit correctly.
4. Physically Fit
The handheld tools may be light. However, these are the only things that a carpenter may carry. On a typical day on the job, you could be carrying hundreds of pounds worth of material. A good example would be plywood sheets which could easily weigh 100 pounds.
In addition to lifting, a carpenter can be found climbing scaffoldings, pulling apart cabinetry, and taking down concrete walls. You may also find yourself working long hours during the day plus the weekends if there is a timetable to follow.
5. Problem Solving Skills
What would you do if the cabinets you constructed cannot be firmly set up because the flooring of the house is slightly sloping? Most likely, you would use wedges in order to keep the cabinets on level footing.
Problems always come up in construction. Even with the right calculations, unforeseen situations are always lurking around the corner. A good Carpenter is counted upon to identify the problem and develop the right solution.
Duties And Responsibilities for Carpenters
To qualify a candidate for the job, the HR Officer will review the Carpenter duties and responsibilities listed in the work experience section. For a seasoned HR person, it will only take a few seconds to gauge if the candidate has what it takes to handle the job.
Those few seconds are very crucial. Get your duties and responsibilities correctly and you will be in line for the job interview. In some cases, a work contract may be offered right away.
So how do you come up with a list of duties and responsibilities in your Carpenter resume work experience section that can clinch the job for you?
First, we’ll tell you what not to do.
Although the work of a carpenter is pretty much cut and dry, the last thing that you would want to do is to submit a generic-sounding work experience:
- Used basic tools to carry out carpentry work.
- Created shelves and other fixtures.
- Cut materials according to plans.
- Installed cabinets.
- Other tasks as instructed by the Project Manager.
Your purpose for writing the work experience section must be to differentiate your application from everyone else’s. The list of duties and responsibilities that your present must convince the recruiter that “You’re the man for the job!”
When creating a work experience section, try to put yourself in the position of the recruiter:
“What would make the company want to hire me as its Carpenter?”
The answer lies in what the company demands or expects of its Carpenter. This means you should review the job post which summarizes the requirements for the position.
Let’s review the following job post from the prospective employer, Albatross Construction Company:
Albatross Construction Company is in need of the following position:
Carpenter
The job/skill requirements are as follows:
- Ability to install frameworks, structures, and fixtures such as windows, flooring, and trim.
- Identify damaged parts or sections of structures and implement the necessary repairs using the right tools.
- Competent in reading and understanding construction blueprints.
- Shape and cut materials according to specifications.
- Can perform basic administrative tasks.
Given these pieces of information, you can prepare a work experience that reads like this:
Good Work Experience sample for a Carpenter resume
- Extensively worked for 2 years in the company’s residential construction projects; tasks included constructing frameworks and window frames, installing wooden floors and tiles, and masonry work.
- Worked closely with the company’s Interior Designer and Furniture Design team to fine-tune design and measurements of various types of furniture, fixtures, and shelving units.
- Carried out design drawings accordingly; cut and shaped materials such as wood, stainless steel, and plastic to conform with design specifications.
- Worked directly with the Project Manager at the commercial construction sites; used blueprints and layout to measure the correct size of cabinets, drawers, and doors.
Performed the following administrative tasks: Selected and placed the order for lumber, received materials at the construction site, and documented and prepared all required reports as instructed by the Project Manager.
As you can see, there are more details in these job descriptions. Most of them are a direct response to the requirements of the job post. The list of duties and responsibilities is a good mix of technical skills and administrative work.
Entry Level Carpenter Resume
As we mentioned earlier, becoming a Carpenter is a fantastic way to break into the construction industry as you will literally learn the business from the ground up. With construction booming and demand for Carpenters stable, there will always be opportunities for an entry-level Carpenter.
On that note, the job market remains competitive. Emphasize your value over the other candidates. What can you do to lend more support to your application?
Did you undergo an apprenticeship program? If you did, highlight the experience in your resume. Identify the company and give a detailed summary of your duties and responsibilities.
Did you take up advanced certification courses in handling construction-related equipment including heavy machinery? Top level technical skills will always generate interest from the people over at HR. It increases your overall value proposition.
Include your experience as a volunteer worker. In blue-collar work, experience is much sought-after. If you volunteered your skill and time in socio-economic projects such as building homes and shelters, make sure to highlight these experiences in your resume.
If the job market is tight, fine-tune your search and apply to jobs that specify “Entry-Level”. The pay may not be as high but your chances of getting hired will be much better.
Finally, if things are not looking good, don’t give up on your career. A good option would be to use your carpentry skills to start a business. If you are the creative type, perhaps you can start a business designing furniture.