Helpers--Carpenters

O*NET 47-3012.00 · SOC 47-3012

Helpers--Carpenter is a risky career choice. Median pay is $44k a year with -1.7% projected growth through 2035 (declining) and about 2,000 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.

Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27

Projected Growth
+-1.7%
2025–2035
Median Salary
$44k
BLS OEWS, May 2025
Annual Openings
2k
positions/year
Education Level
Zone 2
Some preparation needed (high school or short training)

What You'd Actually Do

  • →Carry lumber and building materials to carpenters on site
  • →Hold materials in place while carpenters measure and cut
  • →Clean up sawdust, scrap wood, and debris from work areas
  • →Unload and stack lumber deliveries in organized storage areas
  • →Hand tools and fasteners to carpenters during framing work

Education & How to Get In

🎓
Job Zone 2
Some preparation needed (high school or short training)

Helpers--Carpenter roles typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, with most training happening on the job. This makes it one of the more accessible career paths, you can often start working while earning certifications or completing short-term training programs.

Get Started Learning

Ready to start building skills for a career as a Helpers--Carpenter? These platforms offer courses you can start today, many with free trials or financial aid.

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Work Environment

Primary Setting

Hands-on, labs, workshops, or field sites

Work Style

Mixed, alternates between solo focused work and collaboration

A Day in the Life

While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Helpers--Carpenter involves a mix of core responsibilities:

MorningCarry lumber and building materials to carpenters on site
MiddayHold materials in place while carpenters measure and cut
AfternoonClean up sawdust, scrap wood, and debris from work areas

Personality Fit (RIASEC)

Realistic (Doers)6.9
Conventional (Organizers)3.5
Social (Helpers)2.1
Enterprising (Persuaders)1.6
Artistic (Creators)1.4
Investigative (Thinkers)1.3

Who Thrives as Helpers--Carpenter?

Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.

ISTPThe CraftspersonISTJThe InspectorESTPThe DynamoISFPThe Composer

Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →

See Open Helpers--Carpenter Roles

Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.

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Job Outlook

Employment of Helpers--Carpenters is projected to decline 1.7% from 2025 to 2035, declining for all occupations.

Will AI Replace This Job?

38/100Moderate, likely AI-complementary
  • ·46% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress
  • ·Industry sector with low automation exposure

Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.

Common Questions

How much does a Helpers--Carpenter make?

The median Helpers--Carpenter earns $44k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.

Will AI replace Helpers--Carpenter jobs?

Our model puts Helpers--Carpenter at 38 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 46% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress; industry sector with low automation exposure.

Is Helpers--Carpenter a growing field?

Employment is projected to shrink 1.7% between 2025 and 2035, which is declining. That works out to roughly 2,000 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.

What degree do you need to be a Helpers--Carpenter?

Most Helpers--Carpenter roles need a high school diploma or equivalent, with training happening on the job. A degree is not the usual route in.

How long does it take to become a Helpers--Carpenter?

Typically under a year, usually a high school diploma plus short training. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 2 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.

Is a Helpers--Carpenter career right for you?

Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.

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