Carpenter & Joiner

Carpenters and Joiners make and maintain structures and buildings. Timber is an important part of any structure, and Carpenters and Joiners work together to prepare the wooden parts of a building such as floorboards, joists, roof trusses and window frames and then put them in place.

Usually, a Joiner will work from plans to prepare the materials; the Carpenter then puts them in position. You will be responsible for constructing, repairing and maintaining furniture, fixtures and structures, ensuring a safe and functional environment for people using health and care buildings.

Role Characteristics

Learn the uses of different types of wood and choose the right material for the job
Understand technical drawings and how your work will fit within the building
Create design drawings, alongside sketches of the work needed and the specifications
Measure, mark up, cut, shape, fit and finish timber
Work in dusty conditions, or work outdoors in all weather and at height
Use a range of hand and power tools

Skills

Operating equipment
Team work
Time Management
Attention to detail
Decision-making
Customer service

Day in the life

Find out more about Ben's career as a Carpenter and Joiner within the NHS.

Routes into this role

Here are some example routes that can lead into this role.

GCSEs

BTEC

An apprenticeship

How to become

There are many routes into Carpentry and Joinery; these include apprenticeships and college courses.

You will normally need 5 GCSEs including English, maths and sciences, or equivalent. However, volunteering and work experience is valued by employers.

You will normally complete a BTEC or NVQ during your apprenticeship.

It is important to check your preferred course provider's entry requirements for guidance.

Where can this role lead

No matter what role you start in or where you are in your career path, there are always opportunities to develop and progress in health and care.

With experience, you could become a Site Supervisor, managing the building site and ensuring everything runs smoothly. Or you could become a Construction Project Manager, managing the process of buildings being build including ordering materials, managing people and making sure everything is finished on time.

You could move into teaching, helping other people learn and start their careers in Carpentry or Joinery.