So you want to be a Cabinet Maker?

Some common questions...

What does a Cabinet Maker actually do?

A Cabinet Maker builds, repairs and installs furniture or fixtures. Cabinet Makers work with wood, wood substitutes and other furniture items. Preparing materials using saws, power tools, chisels and various woodworking machines, Cabinet Makers trim and fix together different parts to construct furniture.

What are some of the skills I would learn at BIGA?

At BIGA, we will equip you with the practical and theoretical skills and knowledge necessary to be a successful Cabinet Maker. Some of the skills you will learn include:

  • Practical creation of frames, drawers, door construction, etc
  • Using hand and power tools and equipment
  • Preparing drawings from specifications
  • Selecting and preparing equipment and materials
  • Repairing damaged cabinets and furniture
  • Reading and working off plans and specifications to manufacture

What does a Cabinet Maker apprenticeship involve?

At BIGA, we equip you with on-the-job training, conducted by experienced tradespeople on site and within the classroom. This ensures you develop the technical and practical skills to be effective in your chosen trade. Number of years expected to complete your apprenticeship: 3 - 4 yrs.

What do I need to be a good Cabinet Maker?

  • Good hand-eye coordination
  • Enjoy working with your hands
  • Able to work with high accuracy 
  • Pride in work and neatness of presentation
  • Attention to detail

What working conditions can I expect?

  • Standard full-time 5 day working week with some overtime expected on weekends in order to complete certain projects
  • Currently a shortage of skilled cabinet makers with employment expected to remain steady to 2010
  • Technology and automated machinery is on the increase, though the degree to which hand tools are used is dependant on each factory and project
  • Salary ranges between $34,000 to $52,000 with this likely to increase
  • Opportunities exist for work overseas
  • Typical physical working environment
  • More opportunities exist in technology and flat panel production
  • Cabinet makers generally work for small to medium sized businesses
  • Jobs range from fine furniture, refurbishment of kitchens and bathrooms, shopping centre fit outs, etc

Benefits of BIGA:

  • Learn more about the apprenticeship and the job opportunities involved before making your decision on which apprenticeship to apply for
  • BIGA takes the time to get to know you, finding out your skill levels, abilities and particularly your interests to determine the best apprenticeship suited to you
  • A variety in apprenticeship offerings, means you are free to choose the one that appeals to you the most
  • Gain experience in a variety of different learning situations by working with a variety of qualified and licensed trades people
  • Our staff can offer guidance and support within the security of a large and well established organisation with significant experience in industry and apprenticeships