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ConstructionTop JobColorado Talent Pipeline Report-aligned occupation with strong annual openings, growth, and wage signals.Green JobOccupation aligned to O*NET green economy classifications.

Carpenter

Construct, erect, install, or repair structures and fixtures made of wood and comparable materials, such as concrete forms; building frameworks, including partitions, joists, studding, and rafters; and wood stairways, window and door frames, and hardwood floors. May also install cabinets, siding, drywall, and batt or roll insulation. Includes brattice builders who build doors or brattices (ventilation walls or partitions) in underground passageways.

Annual openings

1,763

Median wage

$62,830

Typical education

Education not reported

Growth 2026–2032

+3%

Median wage source: Colorado BLS OEWS (2025).

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Career requirements

What does this career require?

Explore education, required qualifications, voluntary credentials and employer preferences for this role. Check the details to see which apply.

Typical education

Education not reported

Credential requirement

Credential requirements not reported

Credential detail

Become a Skilled Trades Master Craftsman. Depending upon the trade, Skilled Trades Professionals can become Master Craftsmen through experience and additional credentials. Master Craftsmen earn more money and may supervise apprentices in the trade.

Experience detail

Work experience under the guidance (possibly as an apprentice) of a Skilled Tradesperson is expected.

Work-based learning

Build Colorado provides more information about this job as well as links to organizations that provide apprenticeships for them.

There is a high need for these jobs on big infrastructure construction projects.

Is this work a fit?

What the work actually feels like

How people in this career tend to spend their time, the interests it draws on, and a look at a typical day.

Work style

The type of work can vary by job and employer.

  • With childrenNo
  • On a computerNo
  • OutdoorsMay vary
  • With your handsYes

Interests it draws on

  • Trades
  • Carpentry

Automation exposure

High exposure

Many tasks are repeatable, so technology could reshape the day-to-day over time.

A typical day

  1. Study specifications in blueprints, sketches, or building plans to prepare project layout and determine dimensions and materials required.
  2. Shape or cut materials to specified measurements, using hand tools, machines, or power saws.
  3. Maintain records, document actions, and present written progress reports.
  4. Remove damaged or defective parts or sections of structures and repair or replace, using hand tools.
  5. Follow established safety rules and regulations and maintain a safe and clean environment.
  6. Measure and mark cutting lines on materials, using a ruler, pencil, chalk, and marking gauge.
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