Carpenters and joiners make and install wooden fixtures and fittings. They can work in many areas, for instance on construction sites, fitting out shops and bars, and building sets for film and TV. If you enjoy working with wood and want to put your practical skills to good use, this could be an ideal career for you. You'll need an eye for detail, good maths skills for working out measurements and the ability to follow technical plans.

Tasks:

• cut and shape timber for floorboards, skirting boards and window frames
• make and assemble doors, window frames, staircases and fitted furniture
• fit wooden structures, like floor and roof joists, roof timbers, staircases, partition walls, and door and window frames (first fixings)
• install skirting boards, door surrounds, doors, cupboards and shelving, as well as door handles and locks (second fixings)
• build temporary wooden supports to hold concrete in place while it sets, for example building foundations (formwork)
• make and fit interiors in shops, bars, restaurants, offices and public buildings
• construct stage sets for theatre, film and TV productions.

Key skills:

• good practical skills
• an organised approach to work
• an eye for detail
• the ability to follow technical drawings and plans
• good maths skills for measuring and working out quantities and angles
• a reasonable level of fitness
• the ability to work as part of a team and unsupervised
• an awareness of health and safety.

Average salary (2014):

United Kingdom:£18,000 and £25,000

Qualifications and training required:

Employers usually look for people with some on-site experience and qualifications. If you have not worked in construction before, you may be able to start as a joiner's mate or labourer to get site experience. Once working, your employer may offer you training in carpentry and joinery. Another route is to take a full-time or part-time college course in carpentry and joinery. This would give you some of the knowledge and practical skills needed for the job and may improve your chances of finding work in the industry. Courses include:

• Level 1 Award in Basic Construction Skills
• Level 1 Award in Wood Operations
• Level 2 (NVQ) Certificate / Diploma in Wood Occupations
• Level 2 Diploma in Construction Crafts (carpentry and joinery)
  Level 2 Diploma in Site Carpentry.

Many colleges also offer pre-employment programmes for people looking to move into construction work. Check with your local college for more details.