Helpers--Carpenters

SOC code 47-3012 · O*NET-SOC 47-3012.00 · Little to some preparation needed · Skilled trades

Bright Outlook — O*NET expects rapid growth for this occupation

Helpers--Carpenters pay

U.S. national figures, May 2025 BLS survey · How we got this number

Median pay

$43,780

a year

Hourly

$21.05

per hour

10th$31,660Median$43,78090th$57,670

The solid band is the middle 50% of workers; the bar spans the 10th to 90th percentile.

Average pay

$44,050

$21.18 per hour

Middle 50%

$36,730 – $49,400

25th to 75th percentile

Full spread

$31,660 – $57,670

10th to 90th percentile

People employed

21,680

nationwide

National U.S. figure, May 2025. Local pay can be higher or lower.

10th percentile: $31,660; $15.22/hr
25th percentile: $36,730; $17.66/hr
Median percentile: $43,780; $21.05/hr
75th percentile: $49,400; $23.75/hr
90th percentile: $57,670; $27.73/hr

What does a helpers--carpenter do?

Help carpenters by performing duties requiring less skill. Duties include using, supplying, or holding materials or tools, and cleaning work area and equipment.

The tasks that matter most day to day

Erect scaffolding, shoring, or braces.
Clean work areas, machines, or equipment, to maintain a clean and safe job site.
Align, straighten, plumb, or square forms for installation.
Select tools, equipment, or materials from storage and transport items to work site.
Construct forms and assist in raising them to the required elevation.
Secure stakes to grids for constructions of footings, nail scabs to footing forms, and vibrate and float concrete.
Fasten timbers or lumber with glue, screws, pegs, or nails and install hardware.
Position and hold timbers, lumber, or paneling in place for fastening or cutting.

How to become a helpers--carpenter

Preparation level: zone 2 — Little to some preparation needed

Education: Usually requires a high school diploma or GED, though some occupations may not.
Experience: Some occupations may need little or no previous experience; others require several months to a year of experience. For example, landscaping and groundskeeping workers might require very little training or previous experience, while agricultural equipment operators can benefit from on-the job training.
Training: Ranges from a few days to one year of on-the-job training.

See all zone 2 occupations →

The federal survey did not capture education levels for this specific occupation, so the preparation-level card above is the best guide to the entry route.

Common questions

How much does a helpers--carpenter earn?

The national median is $43,780 a year. The full range runs from $31,660 at the 10th percentile to $57,670 at the 90th — entry pay sits closer to the lower figure, and experience, licensing and specialisation move you up the range.

Can you become a helpers--carpenter without a degree?

Yes — this occupation sits in preparation zone 2, meaning the typical entry route is usually requires a high school diploma or GED, though some occupations may not. A four-year degree is not the standard requirement, though licensing or certification may still apply.

Skills and knowledge you need

Core skills

Active Listening3.0/5
Speaking3.0/5
Critical Thinking3.0/5
Monitoring3.0/5
Reading Comprehension2.9/5
Active Learning2.9/5

Knowledge areas

Public Safety and Security3.9/5
Building and Construction3.6/5
English Language3.5/5
Mathematics3.3/5
Mechanical3.2/5
Production and Processing3.1/5
Education and Training3.0/5
Administration and Management3.0/5

Transferable strengths: Social Perceptiveness, Coordination, Complex Problem Solving, Equipment Selection.