Carpenters do many jobs in construction, building, or repairing structures, which can mean anything from framing a house to building stairs and door frames to putting in cabinetry or drywall. Carpenters might build things out of raw materials, or install pre-built items.

Carpenters need the ability to read and follow blueprints for the job, and use a variety of tools and measuring devices to make sure that the job is done right the first time. Carpenters typically work with wood, but often work with drywall, fiberglass, or other materials.