Job Description of Finish Carpenter
Finish carpenters do much of the interior work on a building project. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, most are employed by contractors and builders, while about 32 percent are self-employed.
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General Duties
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A finish carpenter constructs, fits and installs various structures in projects such as houses, commercial buildings and even ships. They work with doors, windows, flooring, cabinets and other permanent fixtures.
Materials
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The job description of a finish carpenter includes cutting and shaping materials such as wood and fiberglass by using hand and power tools. They also work with drills, nail guns, sanders, saws and other tools.
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Finish Work
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Finish carpenters are also called joiners because a large part of their work involves joining materials with adhesives, nails and screws. They also make sure everything is level and square.
Remodeling
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Some finish carpenters do remodeling work, such as refinishing hardwood floors and removing permanent fixtures to replace with new ones.
Considerations
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All carpenters need to be in good physical condition because the work can be strenuous. They may be standing much of the day, kneeling, bending and climbing. Finish carpenters also need excellent manual dexterity.
Salary
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Average salary for all carpenters in 2008, according to the BLS, was about $20.60 per hour, or $43,000 annually. Those specifically working in the industry classified as "building finish contractors" were making about $21.70 per hour, or $45,000 per year.
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