What They Do
Woodworkers typically perform the following 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.
• 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.
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Key facts
Median: $43,720
Employment: 3,400
Growth (2024–2034):
-2.0%
Education:
High school diploma
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Career Intelligence Metrics
Automation Risk Assessment
Medium RiskWork-Life Balance Score
4.9/10Personality Fit (RIASEC Profile)
8.4
Realistic
5.0
Investigative
3.8
Artistic
4.6
Social
4.0
Enterprising
8.0
Conventional
Powered by O*NET Career Profiling
Personality Match: The higher the score (out of 10), the better this career matches that personality type. People with similar interests and work styles tend to be most satisfied in careers that match their personality profile.
Top Skills
Detail oriented
Dexterity
Math skills
Mechanical skills
Physical stamina
Physical strength
Technical skills
Strengths
- High Demand
- Flexible Work
- Continuous Learning
Challenges
- Burnout Risk
- Rapid Technological Change
Median Salary Comparison
Employment projection (2024–2034)
Geographic Employment & Wage Analysis
BLS OEWS Data Updated 2024-05States with Highest Employment
- California 8,560
- Texas 5,660
- Indiana 5,050
- Pennsylvania 3,880
- Georgia 3,780
- Florida 3,620
- New York 3,290
- Ohio 3,160
- Minnesota 2,770
- North Carolina 2,420
BLS OEWS data (2024-05)
Regional Wage Variations
-
California +9%$47,870
-
Texas -11%$39,070
-
Indiana -11%$38,750
-
Pennsylvania 4%$45,320
-
Georgia -3%$42,210
-
Florida +7%$46,870
-
New York +32%$57,550
-
Ohio +10%$48,160
-
Minnesota +8%$47,330
-
North Carolina -2%$42,680
BLS OEWS state wage data
Top Metropolitan Areas
New York-Newark-Jersey City
Employment: High
Growth: +3.2%
Los Angeles-Long Beach
Employment: High
Growth: +2.8%
Chicago-Naperville-Elgin
Employment: Medium
Growth: +1.5%
Dallas-Fort Worth
Employment: Medium
Growth: +4.1%
San Francisco-Oakland
Employment: High
Growth: +2.3%
Based on BLS metropolitan area data
Industries with Highest Concentrations
Specialty trade contractors
85%
Furniture and related product manufacturing
70%
Wood product manufacturing
55%
Regional Job Market Outlook
Strong
West Coast
Stable
Northeast
Growing
South