Carpenter Resume Examples

Updated April 7, 2021

Downloadable Examples

The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects little or no change to the number of jobs for carpenters from 2019 to 2029. There are around 89,000 openings for carpenters each year, mostly due to companies needing to replace people who retire or move out of the occupation. Although population growth will result in more construction, which is where most carpenters are employed, the increasing use of prefabricated components means that fewer carpenters are required to complete jobs.

With few new jobs, you can expect strong competition when openings arise, and a well-constructed resume can help you stand out in a crowded job market. Build your resume on firm foundations by using our downloadable resume templates. There are examples for entry-level and experienced carpenters, as well as tips for writing a better resume and tailoring your resume to a particular job description.

Downloadable Resume Examples

No Experience

Example #1 No Experience

2-3 years

Example #2 2-3 Years

5-10 Years

Example #3 5-10 Years

10+ Years

Example #4 10+ Years

Carpenter Resume Examples

Years of Experience
  • No experience 0
  • 2-3 Years 2-3
  • 5-10 Years 5-10
  • 10+ Years 10+

Chloe Hebert
(456) 789-0123
[email protected]
543 My Address Street, Indianapolis, IN 76543

Profile

Dedicated and safety-conscious recent carpentry graduate with outstanding woodworking technical skills. Up-to-date understanding of modern carpentry practices and a strong aptitude for technical mathematics. Self-motivated and driven individual that relishes the challenge of achieving demanding targets without compromising finish or output quality. Confident at following blueprint plans and able to follow a project brief accurately and efficiently.

Key Skills

  • Safe and competent use of power tools
  • Strong grasp of key carpentry concepts and processes
  • Works efficiently on own initiative and as part of a team
  • Communicates clearly with clients and colleagues
  • Excellent awareness of workplace health and safety and hazard prevention
  • Hardworking and reliable

Education

Associate of Applied Science in Building Construction Technology
IVY TECH COMMUNITY COLLEGE Indianapolis, IN, September 2018 – June 2020

Coursework completed:

  • Carpentry Framing and Finishing
  • Carpentry Forms
  • Applied Technical Mathematics
  • Workplace Communications

Professional Experience

Retail Associate, Bob’s Discount Furniture, Indianapolis, IN
June 2020 – Present

  • Greet and assist customers and create a professional first impression reflecting the brand’s values
  • Keep the working area clean, inviting, and uncluttered and remain vigilant to potential safety and security issues
  • Perform customer consultations to understand their needs and suggest suitable furniture options to fulfill a brief
  • Handle cash and card transactions using the till system and process refunds and exchanges
  • Assist with stocktaking activities and use mathematical skills to investigate and resolve discrepancies

Certifications

  • Carpentry Specialist Technical Certificate, Indiana Carpentry Association, 2020
  • NCCER Carpentry Fundamentals Level 1, Indiana Carpentry Association, 2020

Keeva Pitt
(890) 123-4567
[email protected]
456 Address Street, El Paso, TX 32109

Profile

Dedicated apprentice carpenter with 1+ years’ experience constructing residential homes and commercial buildings. Well-versed in construction site health and safety regulations and able to work efficiently and independently. Excellent technical and mathematical ability and skilled at window, door, and ceiling installation.

Key Skills

  • Drywall installation
  • Reading and interpreting technical diagrams
  • Operating manual and pneumatic equipment
  • Competent to use mechanical lifts and forklifts
  • Excellent physical fitness
  • Clear communicator and collaborative worker

Education

High School Diploma
YSLETA HIGH SCHOOL El Paso, TX, June 2018

Diploma in Construction Technology (Carpentry)
VISTA COLLEGE El Paso, TX, September 2018 – June 2019

Coursework completed:

  • Building Codes
  • Construction and Framing
  • Materials and Applications

Professional Experience

Apprentice Carpenter, Tradesmen International, El Paso, TX
July 2019 – Present

  • Cut materials to precise specifications using manual and power saws
  • Closely follow blueprints and technical drawings to install floors, drywall, windows, and ceilings
  • Inspect buildings to detect defects and damage and perform effective repairs
  • Put up scaffolding and use ladders to work at height, using safety harnesses when necessary
  • Employ safe manual handling practices and maintain a tidy and hazard-free construction site

Laborer, Lagan Construction LLC, El Paso, TX
September 2018 – July 2019

  • Conducted daily health and safety checks and completed reports
  • Assisted tradespeople and carried out digging, hoisting, and excavation tasks
  • Used mechanical equipment to unload and haul materials and deliver them to the appropriate areas
  • Tidied construction site at the end of each shift and removed packaging and waste materials for disposal

Certifications

  • Forklift Certification, Texas Heavy Equipment Association, 2019

Bonita Rosa
(123) 456-7890
[email protected]
543 Main Road, Baton Rouge, LA 43210

Profile

Knowledgeable and skilled carpenter with 7+ years’ experience erecting and repairing buildings and other wooden structures. Outstanding technical ability and capable of working to an exceptional degree of accuracy. Specialist knowledge of historical building preservation and authentic construction and repair techniques. Confident leader with a talent for coordinating large multi-disciplinary teams and mentorship.

Professional Experience

Carpenter, Cajun Industries, Baton Rouge, LA
March 2015 – Present

  • Work to precise technical specifications from blueprints and technical drawings
  • Construct and install forms, batter boards, and scaffolds and ensure a flawless finish
  • Coordinate and direct teams of laborers and other tradespeople on-site and supervise activities to ensure brief adherence and quality control
  • Safely operate manual and power constructions tools and instruct new hires on their correct usage
  • Perform final inspections at the end of projects and complete detailed reports

Carpenter, Recreation and Park Commission for the Parish of East Baton Rouge
June 2013 – March 2015

  • Constructed, maintained, and repaired small buildings, including framework, door, and window installation
  • Inspected playgrounds for safety, performed repairs, and erected new recreation equipment
  • Maintained and repaired historical structures using authentic materials and techniques to respect their unique features

Education

Certificate of Technical Studies in Carpentry
DELGADO COMMUNITY COLLEGE New Orleans, LA, September 2009 – June 2013

Key Skills

  • Electric and pneumatic power tool operation
  • Excellent knowledge of anchor bolt layouts
  • Understanding of Symons Forms
  • Strong leadership skills
  • Well-versed in construction site health and safety

Certifications

  • Certified Building Envelope Technician (CBET), Carpenters International Certification Council, June 2018

Caroline Carpenter
(123) 456-7890
[email protected]
123 Main Avenue, Layton, Utah, 23026

Profile

A highly skilled natural leader with 15 years of carpentry experience and a certificate in building technology from Bridgerland Technical College. Experience in construction site management and in-depth knowledge of equipment operation. Proven ability to read and interpret blueprints to offer clients excellent results that perfectly match their brief. Impeccable ability to communicate with a team and clients effectively. Knowledge of on-site safety protocols and operational protocols to ensure a safe and efficient working environment

Professional Experience

Construction Site Manager, Layton Construction, Sandy, UT
October 2015 – January 2021

  • Conducted pre-installment meetings with contractors to improve communication, which resulted in a 20% increase in employee satisfaction
  • Provided safety kits to all contractors to fully comply with on-site protocols
  • Managed a large team to carry out all carpentry needs for a 200-strong housing development

Carpenter, Magleby Construction, Lindon, UT
April 2011 – August 2015

  • Mentored junior carpenters
  • Oversaw and organized all on-site laborers to increase working efficiency by 15%
  • Inspected all structure for damage and arranged for any repairs

Carpenter, Furst Construction Co. Inc., Salt Lake City, UT
June 2006 – April 2011

  • Conducted site assessments to determine project feasibility
  • Communicated with other laborers and site managers to ensure the timely completion of jobs
  • Participated in construction projects, including demolition and equipment transport

Education

Certified in  Building Technology
BRIDGERLAND TECHNICAL COLLEGE Logan, UT, September 2005 – May 2006

Key Skills

  • Custom cabinetry, entertainment units, and furniture design
  • Use of heavy and precision machinery
  • Excellent communication skills with the team and clients
  • Competent problem solver
  • Ability to draw-up and interpret blueprints

Certifications

  • American Red Cross First Aid Certified, June 2020
  • Certified Master Building Envelope Specialist (CMBES), Carpenters International Certification Council, September 2018

Common Key Skills and Action Verbs for Carpenter Resumes

Many hiring managers use Applicant Tracking Systems to identify the resumes of applicants who show the most potential. The ATS scans each resume and evaluates it based on the number of key skill words and relevant action verbs it includes. Resumes that score well are highlighted for the hiring manager to investigate further. This means that including more key skill words and phrases increases your chances of the hiring manager seeing your resume and inviting you for an interview.

Key Skills & Proficiencies
Building codes and plans Cabinet making
Carpentry Construction
Customer service Drywall hanging
Finish carpentry Flooring installation
Framing Hand tools
Layout Maintenance
Managing crews Painting
Power tools Problem-solving
Project management Quality control
Read blueprints Roofing
Sales Scheduling
Trim carpentry Wood manufacturing
Action Verbs
Budget Build
Cut Design
Estimate Finish
Frame Install
Insulate Manage
Manufacture Measure
Order Panel
Plan Quote
Remodel Solve
Trim

Tips for Writing a Better Carpenter Resume

Highlight your carpenter certifications

You need to think about both certifications and licenses when writing your carpenter resume. You don’t need any particular certification to work as an apprentice; however, completed certifications can highlight specialist skills and show a commitment to the industry and skill development. If you have certifications, include the exact title, the granting organization and the date you received it on your resume. Depending on the state you live in, you may also need a license for some carpentry roles. If you have a license, be sure to note the state and when you received it.

Example #1

Good

  • Certified Lead Carpenter, National Association of the Remodeling Industry, 2018
  • Certified Kitchen and Bath Remodeler, National Association of the Remodeling Industry, 2018
  • C-6 License: Cabinet, Millwork and Finish Carpentry Contractor, State of California, 2017

Bad

  • Multiple remodeling certifications, 2018
  • Licensed in California

Example #2

Good

  • OSHA 30-Hour Construction Safety, 2017
  • INSTALL Certified Floor Covering Specialist, International Standards & Training Alliance, 2017
  • Maintenance and Alterations Contractors License, State of Michigan, 2016

Bad

  • OSHA and Michigan state licenses
  • Floor covering specialization

Feature your carpentry soft skills

Carpentry isn’t only following plans and working with wood. Carpenters also need soft skills to interact with a team and solve problems. Customer service and communication skills are particularly important, as you often have to interact with clients and determine their needs. Employers often want carpenters who can demonstrate existing soft skills, especially when looking to fill leadership roles. Make sure you highlight at least one soft skill that you excel in or that’s featured in the job description.

Example #1

Good

Listened to customer needs and communicated plans and budget estimates that solved their problems

Bad

Developed plans for customers

Example #2

Good

Took a leadership role in training eight apprentices in all aspects of carpentry and mentored them as they specialized and became valuable members of the construction team

Bad

Regularly worked with apprentices and other team members

How to Align Your Resume With the Job Description

Hiring managers need to look at a lot of applications to find someone who has the right mix of experience and skills to meet their needs. They use job descriptions to define those needs, and you can use this job description to tailor your resume, ensuring you include the skills they’re looking for. This can help you stand out from other candidates.

If you don’t know which skills and attributes to highlight, start by looking at the requirements mentioned multiple times or listed at the start of the job description. These are normally the company’s key priorities. Make sure your resume demonstrates how you can deliver on these priorities by focusing on your notable achievements. A generic resume is easy to overlook, so avoid copy and pasting.

Example Carpenter Job Description

TJ Renovations is looking for a skilled carpenter to join our remodeling team. Experience in kitchen installation and cabinetmaking is a must, and the ability to design, cut, and measure materials based on client specifications will be highly-regarded. You will be responsible for the layout, installation, repair and finish of various structures and fixtures in older homes. The successful candidate will have good communication and organizational skills, strong knowledge of wood properties and the ability to follow all health and safety standards. 

Responsibilities:

  • Read blueprints, drawings and sketches to understand requirements
  • Talk to clients to determine needs and desires and design a solution
  • Take measurements and calculate materials needed
  • Build or repair cabinets, doors, frameworks, floors and other wooden fixtures in older homes
  • Inspect home fixtures to detect damaged structures, remove damaged parts and repair or replace using hand tools
  • Provide excellent customer service
  • Follow all code requirements for kitchens and baths in remodeling projects
  • Follow established workplace safety rules and regulations and maintain a safe and clean environment

Qualifications:

  • High school diploma
  • Completion of a recognized apprenticeship or a minimum of four years’ experience as a journey-level carpenter
  • Excellent customer service and communication skills
  • Experience remodeling homes
  • Experience with kitchen renovations and installations
  • Strong knowledge of health and safety regulations and protocols
  • Ability to read technical documents and drawings
  • Physically fit 

The job description shows that the ideal candidate will have the following skills and attributes:

  • Remodeling experience
  • Kitchen installation
  • Health and safety
  • Customer service
  • Communication skills
  • Older homes
  • Design
  • Build and repair

Take the skills and attributes you highlighted in the job description and compare them to your resume. Make sure you include experience and skills that match the requirements. Below is an example of how best to incorporate them into your resume:

Carpenter Work Experience Example

Carpenter, Quinn Remodeling Solutions

March 2015-Present

  • Communicate with clients to determine needs and design kitchens and bathrooms that meet their requirements
  • Remodel rooms in older homes by repairing existing structures, building new structures and installing kitchens and bathrooms
  • Provide excellent customer service by communicating with clients regularly and reliably finishing jobs on time and within budget
  • Follow all health and safety protocols and ensure all jobs meet state and city requirements for kitchen and bathroom remodels

Other Resume Examples