← All occupations

Carpenters

Job Zone
Job Zone 1-2: Very Little to Some Preparation Needed
Usually requires a high school diploma or GED, though some occupations may not.

Job Zones group occupations into one of five categories based on the education, experience, and training typically needed to perform them.

Tasks

Specific duties and responsibilities regularly performed in this occupation.

  • Measure and mark cutting lines on materials, using a ruler, pencil, chalk, and marking gauge.76
  • Follow established safety rules and regulations and maintain a safe and clean environment.73
  • Shape or cut materials to specified measurements, using hand tools, machines, or power saws.71
  • Select and order lumber or other required materials.71
  • Install structures or fixtures, such as windows, frames, floorings, trim, or hardware, using carpenters' hand or power tools.69
  • Verify trueness of structure, using plumb bob and level.68
  • Arrange for subcontractors to deal with special areas, such as heating or electrical wiring work.66
  • Build or repair cabinets, doors, frameworks, floors, or other wooden fixtures used in buildings, using woodworking machines, carpenter's hand tools, or power tools.66
  • Remove damaged or defective parts or sections of structures and repair or replace, using hand tools.64
  • Install rough door and window frames, subflooring, fixtures, or temporary supports in structures undergoing construction or repair.64
  • Erect scaffolding or ladders for assembling structures above ground level.64
  • Maintain job records and schedule work crew.64
Show all 30
  • Examine structural timbers and supports to detect decay, and replace timbers as required, using hand tools, nuts, and bolts.63
  • Fill cracks or other defects in plaster or plasterboard and sand patch, using patching plaster, trowel, and sanding tool.63
  • Dig or direct digging of post holes and set poles to support structures.63
  • Finish surfaces of woodwork or wallboard in houses or buildings, using paint, hand tools, or paneling.62
  • Cover subfloors with building paper to keep out moisture and lay hardwood, parquet, or wood-strip-block floors by nailing floors to subfloor or cementing them to mastic or asphalt base.61
  • Inspect ceiling or floor tile, wall coverings, siding, glass, or woodwork to detect broken or damaged structures.61
  • Prepare cost estimates for clients or employers.61
  • Maintain records, document actions, and present written progress reports.60
  • Bore boltholes in timber, masonry or concrete walls, using power drill.60
  • Study specifications in blueprints, sketches, or building plans to prepare project layout and determine dimensions and materials required.60
  • Work with or remove hazardous material.60
  • Assemble and fasten materials to make frameworks or props, using hand tools and wood screws, nails, dowel pins, or glue.59
  • Perform minor plumbing, welding, or concrete mixing work.57
  • Anchor and brace forms and other structures in place, using nails, bolts, anchor rods, steel cables, planks, wedges, and timbers.57
  • Build sleds from logs and timbers for use in hauling camp buildings and machinery through wooded areas.55
  • Construct forms or chutes for pouring concrete.54
  • Apply shock-absorbing, sound-deadening, or decorative paneling to ceilings or walls.46
  • Use drones for site surveying and to inspect hard-to-reach areas of a structure.

Skills

Developed capacities that facilitate learning or the more rapid acquisition of knowledge.

  • Active Listening60

    Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

  • Critical Thinking60

    Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.

  • Monitoring60

    Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.

  • Coordination56

    Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.

  • Quality Control Analysis53

    Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.

  • Reading Comprehension53

    Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.

  • Speaking53

    Talking to others to convey information effectively.

  • Active Learning50

    Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.

  • Complex Problem Solving50

    Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.

  • Judgment and Decision Making50

    Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.

  • Mathematics50

    Using mathematics to solve problems.

  • Time Management50

    Managing one's own time and the time of others.

Show all 35
  • Operation and Control47

    Controlling operations of equipment or systems.

  • Operations Monitoring47

    Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.

  • Writing47

    Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.

  • Equipment Selection44

    Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.

  • Learning Strategies44

    Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.

  • Service Orientation44

    Actively looking for ways to help people.

  • Social Perceptiveness44

    Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.

  • Instructing41

    Teaching others how to do something.

  • Management of Personnel Resources41

    Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best people for the job.

  • Systems Evaluation41

    Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system.

  • Negotiation38

    Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.

  • Persuasion38

    Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.

  • Systems Analysis38

    Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.

  • Management of Material Resources35

    Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materials needed to do certain work.

  • Repairing35

    Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.

  • Troubleshooting35

    Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.

  • Equipment Maintenance31

    Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.

  • Installation31

    Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.

  • Management of Financial Resources22

    Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for these expenditures.

  • Operations Analysis19

    Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.

  • Technology Design19

    Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.

  • Programming13

    Writing computer programs for various purposes.

  • Science10

    Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.

Knowledge

Organized sets of principles and facts that apply in general domains.

  • Building and Construction92

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

  • Administration and Management73

    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.

  • Mathematics73

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

  • Design72

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

  • Engineering and Technology65

    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.

  • Public Safety and Security62

    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.

  • Mechanical58

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

  • Education and Training56

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

  • Customer and Personal Service52

    Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.

  • Physics51

    Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub-atomic structures and processes.

  • English Language48

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

  • Production and Processing48

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

Show all 33
  • Transportation43

    Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.

  • Computers and Electronics39

    Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.

  • Administrative38

    Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and workplace terminology.

  • Personnel and Human Resources38

    Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, training, compensation and benefits, labor relations and negotiation, and personnel information systems.

  • Economics and Accounting33

    Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial markets, banking, and the analysis and reporting of financial data.

  • Telecommunications31

    Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.

  • Chemistry30

    Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.

  • Sales and Marketing30

    Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products or services. This includes marketing strategy and tactics, product demonstration, sales techniques, and sales control systems.

  • Law and Government27

    Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.

  • Communications and Media26

    Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.

  • Psychology26

    Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders.

  • Geography22

    Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, and air masses, including their physical characteristics, locations, interrelationships, and distribution of plant, animal, and human life.

  • Foreign Language19

    Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition and grammar, and pronunciation.

  • Medicine and Dentistry16

    Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries, diseases, and deformities. This includes symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive health-care measures.

  • Sociology and Anthropology16

    Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures, and their history and origins.

  • Philosophy and Theology15

    Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their basic principles, values, ethics, ways of thinking, customs, practices, and their impact on human culture.

  • Therapy and Counseling15

    Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of physical and mental dysfunctions, and for career counseling and guidance.

  • Food Production12

    Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food products (both plant and animal) for consumption, including storage/handling techniques.

  • History and Archeology12

    Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civilizations and cultures.

  • Biology9

    Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.

  • Fine Arts8

    Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform works of music, dance, visual arts, drama, and sculpture.

Abilities

Enduring attributes of the individual that influence performance.

  • Problem Sensitivity72

    The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.

  • Visualization72

    The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when its parts are moved or rearranged.

  • Finger Dexterity66

    The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or both hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble very small objects.

  • Manual Dexterity66

    The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.

  • Near Vision66

    The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).

  • Arm-Hand Steadiness63

    The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.

  • Deductive Reasoning63

    The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.

  • Information Ordering63

    The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).

  • Trunk Strength63

    The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the body repeatedly or continuously over time without "giving out" or fatiguing.

  • Far Vision60

    The ability to see details at a distance.

  • Multilimb Coordination60

    The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while sitting, standing, or lying down. It does not involve performing the activities while the whole body is in motion.

  • Oral Comprehension60

    The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.

Show all 52
  • Oral Expression60

    The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.

  • Static Strength60

    The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.

  • Inductive Reasoning56

    The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).

  • Category Flexibility53

    The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.

  • Control Precision53

    The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.

  • Reaction Time53

    The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sound, light, picture) when it appears.

  • Selective Attention53

    The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted.

  • Explosive Strength50

    The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping or sprinting), or to throw an object.

  • Flexibility of Closure50

    The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in other distracting material.

  • Perceptual Speed50

    The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among sets of letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns. The things to be compared may be presented at the same time or one after the other. This ability also includes comparing a presented object with a remembered object.

  • Speech Clarity50

    The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.

  • Speech Recognition50

    The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.

  • Written Comprehension50

    The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.

  • Auditory Attention47

    The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distracting sounds.

  • Dynamic Strength47

    The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This involves muscular endurance and resistance to muscle fatigue.

  • Mathematical Reasoning47

    The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem.

  • Originality47

    The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situation, or to develop creative ways to solve a problem.

  • Depth Perception44

    The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you, or to judge the distance between you and an object.

  • Extent Flexibility44

    The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.

  • Gross Body Equilibrium44

    The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.

  • Number Facility44

    The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.

  • Response Orientation44

    The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two or more different signals (lights, sounds, pictures). It includes the speed with which the correct response is started with the hand, foot, or other body part.

  • Time Sharing44

    The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of information (such as speech, sounds, touch, or other sources).

  • Wrist-Finger Speed44

    The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and wrists.

  • Written Expression44

    The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.

  • Fluency of Ideas41

    The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas is important, not their quality, correctness, or creativity).

  • Hearing Sensitivity41

    The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch and loudness.

  • Rate Control41

    The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in anticipation of changes in the speed and/or direction of a moving object or scene.

  • Spatial Orientation41

    The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know where other objects are in relation to you.

  • Stamina41

    The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getting winded or out of breath.

  • Visual Color Discrimination41

    The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of color and brightness.

  • Memorization38

    The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and procedures.

  • Speed of Closure38

    The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into meaningful patterns.

  • Gross Body Coordination35

    The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together when the whole body is in motion.

  • Peripheral Vision28

    The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes are looking ahead.

  • Glare Sensitivity22

    The ability to see objects in the presence of a glare or bright lighting.

  • Sound Localization22

    The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.

  • Night Vision19

    The ability to see under low-light conditions.

  • Speed of Limb Movement19

    The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.

  • Dynamic Flexibility16

    The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with your body, arms, and/or legs.

Work Activities

General types of job behaviors occurring on multiple jobs.

  • Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events80

    Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.

  • Getting Information78

    Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.

  • Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials77

    Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.

  • Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings77

    Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.

  • Handling and Moving Objects76

    Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.

  • Performing General Physical Activities75

    Performing general physical activities includes doing activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials.

  • Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates73

    Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.

  • Making Decisions and Solving Problems71

    Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.

  • Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work68

    Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.

  • Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others66

    Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.

  • Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment66

    Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or watercraft.

  • Processing Information66

    Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.

Show all 41
  • Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment65

    Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to tell others about how devices, parts, equipment, or structures are to be fabricated, constructed, assembled, modified, maintained, or used.

  • Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge64

    Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.

  • Thinking Creatively63

    Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.

  • Controlling Machines and Processes62

    Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).

  • Scheduling Work and Activities62

    Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.

  • Analyzing Data or Information61

    Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.

  • Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards61

    Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.

  • Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People61

    Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.

  • Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships60

    Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.

  • Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates59

    Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance.

  • Developing and Building Teams58

    Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.

  • Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information58

    Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.

  • Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others55

    Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.

  • Documenting/Recording Information54

    Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.

  • Communicating with People Outside the Organization52

    Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.

  • Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others52

    Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.

  • Training and Teaching Others52

    Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.

  • Coaching and Developing Others50

    Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.

  • Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment50

    Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.

  • Monitoring and Controlling Resources49

    Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.

  • Assisting and Caring for Others47

    Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.

  • Developing Objectives and Strategies47

    Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.

  • Performing for or Working Directly with the Public47

    Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.

  • Performing Administrative Activities44

    Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files and processing paperwork.

  • Working with Computers41

    Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.

  • Providing Consultation and Advice to Others40

    Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.

  • Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment34

    Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines, devices, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of electrical or electronic (not mechanical) principles.

  • Selling or Influencing Others31

    Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or actions.

  • Staffing Organizational Units28

    Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organization.

Work Styles

Personal characteristics that can affect how well someone performs a job.

  • Dependability81

    A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related obligations.

  • Attention to Detail74

    A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.

  • Cautiousness60

    A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related decisions or doing work.

  • Perseverance52

    A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in the face of difficult circumstances or obstacles at work.

  • Integrity45

    A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.

  • Stress Tolerance42

    A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.

  • Achievement Orientation41

    A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, set high work-related standards, and exert high effort toward meeting those goals and standards.

  • Self-Confidence37

    A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control one's work-related outcomes.

  • Adaptability30

    A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas at work.

  • Initiative29

    A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may fall outside of one's required work role.

  • Self-Control28

    A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in response to criticism or difficult situations at work.

  • Innovation26

    A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on ways to accomplish work.

Show all 21
  • Cooperation24

    A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.

  • Intellectual Curiosity19

    A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep understanding of work-related subjects.

  • Optimism13

    A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even under difficult circumstances.

  • Sincerity10

    A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, without concern for personal gain or self-interest.

  • Leadership Orientation9

    A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.

  • Humility5

    A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.

  • Social Orientation3

    A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.

  • Tolerance for Ambiguity2

    A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.

  • Empathy1

    A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feelings at work.

Interests (RIASEC)

Holland's six occupational interest types (RIASEC) this work tends to attract.

  • Realistic96

    Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.

  • Conventional41

    Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.

  • Artistic20

    Work involves creating original visual artwork, performances, written works, food, or music for a variety of media, or applying artistic principles to the design of various objects and materials. Artistic occupations are often associated with visual arts, applied arts and design, performing arts, music, creative writing, media, or culinary art.

  • Investigative15

    Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.

  • Social15

    Work involves helping, teaching, advising, assisting, or providing service to others. Social occupations are often associated with social, health care, personal service, teaching/education, or religious activities.

  • Enterprising13

    Work involves managing, negotiating, marketing, or selling, typically in a business setting, or leading or advising people in political and legal situations. Enterprising occupations are often associated with business initiatives, sales, marketing/advertising, finance, management/administration, professional advising, public speaking, politics, or law.

Work Context

Physical and social factors that influence the nature of work.

  • Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams

    • Every day94%
  • Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets

    • Every day95%
  • Contact With Others

    • Constant contact with others84%
  • Spend Time Standing

    • Continually or almost continually70%
    • More than half the time20%
  • Importance of Being Exact or Accurate

    • Extremely important67%
    • Very important22%
  • Health and Safety of Other Workers

    • Very high responsibility68%
    • High responsibility14%
    • Moderate responsibility16%
  • Work With or Contribute to a Work Group or Team

    • Extremely important68%
    • Very important17%
  • Time Pressure

    • Every day55%
    • Once a week or more but not every day35%
  • Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results

    • Very important results64%
    • Important results19%
    • Moderate results11%
  • Exposed to Sounds, Noise Levels that are Distracting or Uncomfortable

    • Every day59%
    • Once a week or more but not every day15%
    • Once a month or more but not every week22%
  • Work Outcomes and Results of Other Workers

    • Very high responsibility57%
    • High responsibility29%
  • Frequency of Decision Making

    • Every day67%
    • Once a week or more but not every day14%
    • Never12%
Show all 57
  • Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls

    • Continually or almost continually59%
    • More than half the time22%
    • Never15%
  • Exposed to Contaminants

    • Every day44%
    • Once a week or more but not every day31%
    • Never14%
  • Outdoors, Exposed to All Weather Conditions

    • Every day54%
    • Once a week or more but not every day17%
    • Once a year or more but not every month12%
    • Never11%
  • Physical Proximity

    • Very close (near touching)11%
    • Moderately close (at arm's length)70%
    • Slightly close (e.g., shared office)16%
  • Telephone Conversations

    • Every day44%
    • Once a week or more but not every day25%
    • Once a month or more but not every week20%
  • Consequence of Error

    • Extremely serious50%
    • Very serious14%
    • Fairly serious19%
  • Duration of Typical Work Week

    • More than 40 hours37%
    • 40 hours63%
  • Exposed to Hazardous Equipment

    • Every day52%
    • Once a week or more but not every day15%
    • Never22%
  • Coordinate or Lead Others in Accomplishing Work Activities

    • Extremely important29%
    • Very important22%
    • Important33%
    • Fairly important14%
  • Determine Tasks, Priorities and Goals

    • A lot of freedom23%
    • Some freedom35%
    • Limited freedom23%
    • Very little freedom19%
  • Freedom to Make Decisions

    • A lot of freedom27%
    • Some freedom39%
    • Limited freedom17%
    • No freedom13%
  • Spend Time Bending or Twisting Your Body

    • Continually or almost continually31%
    • More than half the time18%
    • About half the time28%
    • Less than half the time22%
  • Exposed to High Places

    • Every day27%
    • Once a week or more but not every day27%
    • Once a month or more but not every week27%
    • Once a year or more but not every month13%
  • Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions

    • Continually or almost continually44%
    • About half the time13%
    • Less than half the time22%
    • Never13%
  • Exposed to Very Hot or Cold Temperatures

    • Every day24%
    • Once a week or more but not every day33%
    • Once a month or more but not every week20%
    • Never15%
  • Level of Competition

    • Extremely competitive26%
    • Highly competitive20%
    • Moderately competitive25%
    • Slightly competitive20%
  • Spend Time Walking or Running

    • Continually or almost continually15%
    • More than half the time26%
    • About half the time40%
    • Less than half the time18%
  • Conflict Situations

    • Every day25%
    • Once a week or more but not every day27%
    • Once a month or more but not every week14%
    • Once a year or more but not every month24%
  • Spend Time Kneeling, Crouching, Stooping, or Crawling

    • Continually or almost continually18%
    • More than half the time15%
    • About half the time31%
    • Less than half the time29%
  • Dealing With Unpleasant, Angry, or Discourteous People

    • Once a week or more but not every day21%
    • Once a month or more but not every week48%
    • Once a year or more but not every month13%
  • Indoors, Environmentally Controlled

    • Every day40%
    • Never41%
  • Outdoors, Under Cover

    • Every day25%
    • Once a week or more but not every day23%
    • Once a year or more but not every month29%
    • Never22%
  • Deal With External Customers or the Public in General

    • Extremely important22%
    • Very important11%
    • Important33%
    • Fairly important11%
    • Not important at all23%
  • Importance of Repeating Same Tasks

    • Extremely important18%
    • Very important24%
    • Important20%
    • Fairly important16%
    • Not important at all23%
  • Spend Time Climbing Ladders, Scaffolds, or Poles

    • Continually or almost continually15%
    • More than half the time15%
    • About half the time26%
    • Less than half the time37%
  • Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings

    • Every day34%
    • Once a week or more but not every day11%
    • Never39%
  • Wear Specialized Protective or Safety Equipment such as Breathing Apparatus, Safety Harness, Full Protection Suits, or Radiation Protection

    • Every day27%
    • Once a week or more but not every day12%
    • Once a month or more but not every week13%
    • Never38%
  • E-Mail

    • Every day32%
    • Never50%
  • Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled

    • Every day29%
    • Once a week or more but not every day15%
    • Never50%
  • Exposed to Hazardous Conditions

    • Every day33%
    • Once a year or more but not every month14%
    • Never45%
  • Exposed to Extremely Bright or Inadequate Lighting Conditions

    • Every day18%
    • Once a week or more but not every day14%
    • Once a month or more but not every week17%
    • Once a year or more but not every month14%
    • Never36%
  • In an Enclosed Vehicle or Operate Enclosed Equipment

    • Every day12%
    • Once a week or more but not every day28%
    • Once a year or more but not every month11%
    • Never42%
  • Exposed to Cramped Work Space, Awkward Positions

    • Once a week or more but not every day27%
    • Once a month or more but not every week12%
    • Once a year or more but not every month19%
    • Never33%
  • Exposed to Whole Body Vibration

    • Once a month or more but not every week19%
    • Once a year or more but not every month16%
    • Never38%
  • In an Open Vehicle or Operating Equipment

    • Once a week or more but not every day30%
    • Once a month or more but not every week19%
    • Never40%
  • Pace Determined by Speed of Equipment

    • Very important22%
    • Important18%
    • Fairly important15%
    • Not important at all35%
  • Public Speaking

    • Once a week or more but not every day27%
    • Never62%
  • Written Letters and Memos

    • Every day14%
    • Once a year or more but not every month17%
    • Never56%
  • Spend Time Keeping or Regaining Balance

    • About half the time20%
    • Less than half the time34%
    • Never38%
  • Work Schedules

    • Irregular (changes with weather conditions, production demands, or contract duration)48%
    • Regular (established routine, set schedule)52%
  • Degree of Automation

    • Moderately automated19%
    • Slightly automated16%
    • Not at all automated57%
  • Dealing with Violent or Physically Aggressive People

    • Once a year or more but not every month23%
    • Never59%
  • Exposed to Disease or Infections

    • Every day14%
    • Once a year or more but not every month11%
    • Never75%
  • Spend Time Sitting

    • Less than half the time24%
    • Never66%
  • Exposed to Radiation

    • Never84%

Typical Education Levels Reported

Education levels O*NET survey respondents in this occupation most often reported having.

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Post-secondary certificate
  • Less than high school diploma

Technology Skills

Specific software and technology tools commonly used on the job.

  • Accounting software

    Intuit QuickBooks, Job costing software, Quicken

  • Project management software

    Bosch Punch List, Estimating software, Turtle Creek Software Goldenseal, VirtualBoss

  • Word processing software

    Microsoft Word, Wilhelm Publishing Threshold

  • Spreadsheet software

    Microsoft Excel

  • Office suite software

    Microsoft Office software

  • Operating system software

    Microsoft Windows

  • Computer aided design CAD software

    Drawing and drafting software

  • Internet browser software

    Web browser software

  • Information retrieval or search software

    Renaissance MasterCarpenter

Professional Associations

Related Occupations

Detailed Work Activities

More specific, granular versions of the Work Activities above.

  • Mark reference points on construction materials.
  • Measure materials or objects for installation or assembly.
  • Clean work sites.
  • Cut wood components for installation.
  • Order construction or extraction materials or equipment.
  • Select construction materials.
  • Install wooden structural components.
  • Install building fixtures.
  • Install doors or windows.
  • Verify alignment of structures or equipment.
  • Coordinate construction project activities.
  • Assemble temporary equipment or structures.
Show all 33
  • Install safety or support equipment.
  • Record operational or environmental data.
  • Remove worn, damaged or outdated materials from work areas.
  • Inspect work sites to determine condition or necessary repairs.
  • Apply material to fill gaps in surfaces.
  • Dig holes or trenches.
  • Direct construction or extraction personnel.
  • Position safety or support equipment.
  • Apply decorative or textured finishes or coverings.
  • Estimate construction project costs.
  • Install carpet or flooring.
  • Drill holes in construction materials.
  • Prepare operational reports.
  • Review blueprints or specifications to determine work requirements.
  • Prepare hazardous waste for processing or disposal.
  • Mix substances or compounds needed for work activities.
  • Position construction forms or molds.
  • Weld metal components.
  • Assemble products or production equipment.
  • Build construction forms or molds.
  • Install trim or paneling.

Apprenticeship Occupations

Registered apprenticeship program titles associated with this occupation.

  • Boat Builder (Composite Production)
  • Boat Builder (Composite)
  • Boat Builder (Existing Title: Boat Builder, Wood)
  • Boatbuilder, Wood
  • Bridge Carpenter-Heavy Highway (Existing Title: Carpenter, Rough)
  • Carpenter
  • Carpenter Commercial Interior Spec
  • Carpenter Construction
  • Carpenter Roofer Specialist (Existing Title: Roofer)
  • Carpenter, Interior Systems (Alternate Title: Interior Systems Carpenter)
  • Carpenter, Interior Systems - 3 Years
  • Carpenter, Interior Systems - 4 Years
  • Carpenter, Maintenance
  • Carpenter, Mold
  • Carpenter, Piledriver
  • Carpenter, Rough
  • Carpenter, Ship
  • Casket Assembler
  • Dock and Wharf Builder
  • Form Builder (Const)
  • Form Builder Carpenter (Existing Title: Form Builder)
  • Joiner (Ship & Boat Bldg)
  • Lather (Alternate Title: Lathing Specialist)
  • Lathing Specialist (Existing Title: Lather)
  • Pile Driver
  • Prop Maker (Amuse & Rec)
  • Residential Carpenter
  • Residential Carpenter Specialist
  • Residential Carpenter Specialist (Existing Title: Residential Carpenter)
  • Residential Carpenter Specialist (Siding) (Existing Title: Residential Carpenter)
  • Scaffold Erector (Existing Title: Carpenter, Rough)
  • Shipwright (Existing Title: Shipwright (Ship & Boat))
  • Shipwright (Ship & Boat)
  • Timber Framer (Existing Title: Carpenter, Rough)
O*NET in-it

This page incorporates information from O*NET Web Services by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).

Based on federal labor and demographic data. Data source & methodology

Limited time offer