Cabinetmakers and Bench Carpenters
Human Advantage 61%
Significant human skills needed
AI Automation Risk Moderate Risk
4.1 / 10
Some tasks in this role may be augmented by AI, but human oversight and interpersonal skills remain important.
Cut, shape, and assemble wooden articles or set up and operate a variety of woodworking machines, such as power saws, jointers, and mortisers to surface, cut, or shape lumber or to fabricate parts for wood products.
Also Known As: Accordion Maker, Antique Furniture Repairer, Antique Repairer, Boat Oar Maker, Bow Maker, Cabinet Assembler, Cabinet Builder, Cabinet Designer +48 more
Core Tasks
- Verify dimensions or check the quality or fit of pieces to ensure adherence to specifications.
- Produce or assemble components of articles, such as store fixtures, office equipment, cabinets, or high-grade furniture.
- Measure and mark dimensions of parts on paper or lumber stock prior to cutting, following blueprints, to ensure a tight fit and quality product.
- Set up or operate machines, including power saws, jointers, mortisers, tenoners, molders, or shapers, to cut, mold, or shape woodstock or wood substitutes.
- Establish the specifications of articles to be constructed or repaired, or plan the methods or operations for shaping or assembling parts, based on blueprints, drawings, diagrams, or oral or written instructions.
- Attach parts or subassemblies together to form completed units, using glue, dowels, nails, screws, or clamps.
- Reinforce joints with nails or other fasteners to prepare articles for finishing.
- Install hardware, such as hinges, handles, catches, or drawer pulls, using hand tools.
- Trim, sand, or scrape surfaces or joints to prepare articles for finishing.
- Match materials for color, grain, or texture, giving attention to knots or other features of the wood.
- Cut timber to the right size, and shape and trim parts of joints to ensure a snug fit, using hand tools, such as planes, chisels, or wood files.
- Perform final touch-ups with sandpaper or steel wool.
- Bore holes for insertion of screws or dowels, by hand or using boring machines.
- Repair or alter wooden furniture, cabinetry, fixtures, paneling, or other pieces.
Supplemental Tasks (6)
- Estimate the amounts, types, or costs of needed materials.
- Dip, brush, or spray assembled articles with protective or decorative finishes, such as stain, varnish, paint, or lacquer.
- Draw up detailed specifications and discuss projects with customers.
- Design furniture, using computer-aided drawing programs.
- Apply Masonite, formica, or vinyl surfacing materials.
- Program computers to operate machinery.
Education & Training
Job Zone 2 Job Zone Two: Some Preparation Needed
Education: These occupations usually require a high school diploma.
Experience: Some previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is usually needed. For example, a teller would benefit from experience working directly with the public.
On-the-Job Training: Employees in these occupations need anywhere from a few months to one year of working with experienced employees. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.
Education Level Distribution
Percentage of workers in this occupation with each education level.
Technology & Tools
Hot Technologies
Software (7)
Tools & Equipment (151)
Where This Career Leads
Career progression organized by specialty track and experience level.
Skilled Trades Advanced Manufacturing
Zone 1
Floor Sanders and Finishers 77% match
Zone 2
Cabinetmakers and Bench Carpenters You are here
Production & Automation Advanced Manufacturing
Zone 1
Zone 2
Cabinetmakers and Bench Carpenters You are here
Zone 4
Zone 5
Microsystems Engineers 74% match
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