Image shows a workbench where someone is using a plane to shave wood. There are three pieces of wood on the bench indicating it is a workshop or construction setting.

With a vital part to play in all stages of the construction process, carpentry is one of the oldest-known professions in the world.

Regarded as highly-skilled craftspeople, a carpenter’s skillset is not only incredibly sought-after but also extremely versatile, opening up numerous exciting and potentially lucrative career paths.

In this article:

  • What qualifications and experience do carpenters need?
  • What career paths are available to carpenters?  
  • How much do carpenters earn?
  • Are carpenters in high demand?

What qualifications and experience do carpenters need?

Like many trades, gaining the qualifications and/or experience to start a new career can be done in one of several ways:

  • Apprenticeship
  • College course
  • Course via a private construction training provider

The entry requirements for college courses vary depending on whether it's a Level 2 or Level 3 course. For apprenticeships, this may vary depending on the employer.

Having an industry-recognised qualification such as a City & Guilds Level 2 Carpentry Diploma is a route to access the construction industry and register for an NVQ level 2 in site carpentry. CSCS cards are a requirement for most construction sites in the UK.

What career paths are available to carpenters?

A carpentry qualification can open up a variety of different career paths. The most ‘typical’ role involves constructing, erecting, installing and repairing structures on site, in a workshop or in a client’s home or business. 

Beyond that, there are specialist career paths such as construction estimating, contracts management, stage set construction, shopfitting, heritage restoration and furniture design. 

There may also be the opportunity to take those valuable skills into the classroom, training apprentices and teaching at a further education college or private training centre.

How much do carpenters earn?

According to Indeed’s latest data, the average salary for a carpenter in the UK is £46,305, though that figure can fluctuate depending on where in the country you work. The average starting salary is around £17,000 for carpenters and bench joiners. 

Setting up your own carpentry business also opens up the possibility of earning a higher figure as you’re able to set your own rates and workloads. 

Are carpenters in high demand?

With growth predicted in the construction industry and Labour's pledge to build new homes, there are positive indications of continued demand for skilled and qualified tradespeople, which includes carpenters and joiners.

Research carried out by the Construction Skills Network (CSN) (CITB) in a 2024 report found that an additional 251,000 workers will be needed to meet projected UK construction demand over the next four years.

Editor's note: this post was originally published on 15 September 2022 and then updated on 23 January 2025.