So you want to be a Carpenter?

Some common questions...

What does a Carpenter actually do?

A carpenter assembles and erects frameworks for concrete, wood and metal frame construction. Constructing walls, ceiling frames, roof frames, a carpenter can work on a variety of projects both interior and exterior, including residential, commercial and industrial sites. Following plans and specifications, a carpenter also installs windows, doors, flooring systems, stairs and ramps.

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 carpenter. Some of the skills you will learn include:

  • Construct walls, ceilings, and pitched roof frames
  • Using various tools and equipment
  • Preparing materials
  • Calculating materials required and measuring area of construction
  • Reading and interpreting plans and specifications
  • Reading and working off plans and specifications to manufacture

What does a Carpentry 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 Carpenter?

  • Physically fit and healthy
  • Enjoyment of manual handling
  • Ability to work at heights
  • Liking of using tools and various equipment
  • Attention to detail

What working conditions can I expect?

  • Standard full-time 5 day working week, averaging 40 hours, with some overtime expected on weekends in order to complete certain projects
  • Salary ranges between $35,000 - $56,000 plus, with the potential to earn very high salaries, particularly for those owning their own business
  • Mostly working as part of a team
  • Working length varies depending on seasons and weather, though in summer general working hours are between 6 am and 4 pm
  • Physically demanding manual labour/lifting
  • Mainly outdoor working environments
  • Employment growth is steady with slight increase in 2010

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