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Apprentice Woodworker Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Electrician Apprentice: Key Responsibilities * Installation & Repair: Help install, maintain, and repair industrial electrical systems, motors and control panels for Industrial Woodworking Machinery ...

The Apprentice/Service Technician I , under the direction and guidance of the Service Technician ... woodworking, and building maintenance, such as power drills, saws, drill presses, joiners and ...

Finish Carpenter

Roswell, NM · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

The Finish Carpenter will be responsible for crafting and installing high-quality woodwork, trim ... Completion of a carpentry apprenticeship or vocational training a plus . • Experience with both ...

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Apprentice Woodworker information

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$12

$20

$27

How much do apprentice woodworker jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice woodworker in the United States is $20.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is 27 too old for an apprenticeship?

Apprentice woodworkers can start at any age, including 27, as apprenticeships are open to individuals of various ages seeking to learn woodworking skills. Age is generally not a barrier, and many programs value motivation and interest over age. Experience with tools and a willingness to learn can be more important than age in this field.

What are some common challenges Apprentice Woodworkers face when starting out, and how can they overcome them?

Apprentice Woodworkers often encounter challenges such as mastering the use of various hand and power tools, understanding different wood types, and maintaining safety standards in the workshop. Adjusting to the physical demands of the job and working with precise measurements can also be difficult at first. To overcome these hurdles, apprentices should seek feedback from experienced colleagues, actively participate in hands-on training, and consistently follow safety protocols. Building a habit of careful planning and double-checking measurements will also help improve confidence and craftsmanship over time.

What are apprentice woodworkers?

Apprentice woodworkers are individuals who are learning the skills and techniques needed to become professional woodworkers through hands-on training and mentorship. They typically work under the supervision of experienced woodworkers or carpenters, assisting with tasks such as measuring, cutting, shaping, and assembling wood products. Apprenticeships allow them to gain practical experience, improve their craftsmanship, and understand safety procedures while often earning a wage. Over time, apprentice woodworkers gradually take on more complex projects as their skills develop. Completing an apprenticeship can lead to certification and better job opportunities in the woodworking industry.

How to become a woodworker with no experience?

To become an apprentice woodworker with no experience, start by learning basic woodworking skills through online tutorials, community college courses, or workshops. Gain hands-on experience by volunteering or working as a helper in woodworking shops, and consider obtaining safety certifications for operating tools and machinery.

Is 25 too late to start an apprenticeship?

Starting an apprentice woodworker program at age 25 is not too late, as many apprenticeships welcome individuals of various ages. Success depends on dedication, learning skills like tool use and safety, and completing required certifications, regardless of age.

What is the highest paying apprenticeship trade?

In the woodworking field, apprenticeships that lead to specialized roles such as cabinetmaking or furniture making tend to offer higher wages. Additionally, apprentices who gain certifications in advanced tools or techniques can increase their earning potential. Overall, trades that require specialized skills or certifications generally pay more for apprenticeships.

What is the difference between Apprentice Woodworker vs Journeyman Woodworker?

AspectApprentice WoodworkerJourneyman Woodworker
CredentialsOn-the-job training, no formal certification requiredCompleted apprenticeship, often certified
Work EnvironmentLearning phase, supervised tasksIndependent work, skilled craftsmanship
Experience LevelEntry-level, beginnerSkilled, experienced worker
Employer & Industry UsageTraining programs, apprenticeships in woodworking shopsEstablished woodworking shops, custom carpentry

The main difference between an Apprentice Woodworker and a Journeyman Woodworker is experience and skill level. Apprentices are in training, learning basic skills under supervision, while Journeymen have completed their apprenticeship and can work independently with advanced skills. This progression reflects increased responsibility, expertise, and independence in woodworking tasks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Apprentice Woodworker, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Apprentice Woodworker, you need a basic understanding of woodworking techniques, hand tool use, and safety procedures, often gained through a high school diploma or vocational training. Familiarity with woodworking machinery, measurement tools, and reading blueprints is typically required, along with adherence to industry safety standards. Strong attention to detail, eagerness to learn, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure quality craftsmanship, safe work practices, and steady skill development within a workshop environment.
More about Apprentice Woodworker jobs
What cities are hiring for Apprentice Woodworker jobs? Cities with the most Apprentice Woodworker job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Woodworker jobs? The most popular types of Woodworker jobs are:
What states have the most Apprentice Woodworker jobs? States with the most job openings for Apprentice Woodworker jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Apprentice Woodworker jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Apprentice Woodworker jobs are:
Infographic showing various Apprentice Woodworker job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 7% Internship, 40% As Needed, 20% Full Time, 13% Temporary, and 20% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $42,237 per year, or $20.3 per hour.
Apprentice Cabinet Maker

Apprentice Cabinet Maker

Colonial Williamsburg

Williamsburg, VA • On-site

$16.50 - $22/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Learns and develops proficiency in working with appropriate materials, tools, and 18th-century methods under supervision.

  • Researches available information and may conduct ongoing supplemental research to the existing body of knowledge.

  • Applies learned skills and research through demonstration while providing in-depth seminars, workshops, and forums using assigned technological platforms.


Colonial Williamsburg rating

5.1

Company rating: 5.1 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

24th of 27 rated museums


Job description

Who We Are
Founded in 1926, the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation is a private, not-for-profit educational, historic, and cultural institution that owns and operates one of the largest and best-known museum complexes in the world. Our mission is "that the future may learn from the past" through preserving and restoring 18th-century Williamsburg, Virginia's colonial capital. We engage, inform, and inspire people to learn about this historic capital, the events that occurred here, and the diverse peoples who helped shape a new nation.
Today, Colonial Williamsburg is the largest living history museum in the U.S. The Historic Area is the 301-acre restored colonial capital with 89 original buildings and 525 buildings reconstructed to how they appeared in the 18th century through extensive archaeological, architectural, and documentary research. The Historic Area is staffed by highly trained, historically dressed interpreters and expert tradespeople who bring the 18th century to life. The Foundation also owns and operates two world-class museums, the DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum, and the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum, The Bob and Marion Wilson Teacher Institute, and a renowned research library, the John D Rockefeller Jr Library.
Additionally, Colonial Williamsburg is home to five world class accommodations at the Williamsburg Inn, Williamsburg Lodge Autograph Collection, the Griffin Hotel, the Williamsburg Woodlands Hotels and Suites and the unique Colonial Houses in the Historical Area. Visitors may also indulge in food and drink at our many on site restaurants and taverns that blend a historically inspired dining experience with today's evolved tastes. Each year over 5 million people visit Williamsburg and another 20 million engage with us digitally.
About the Position
The primary function of the cabinetmaking apprentice is to rediscover, learn, and preserve the varied trade skills of the 18th-century cabinetmaker and interpret those skills to the public, both orally and in writing. This work is primarily accomplished in a public venue that recreates the vibrant workspace of the period, with off-site study or research as needed. The apprentice must become proficient in these skills so that he/she can teach future apprentices, ensuring that the trade is perpetuated.
Main Duties
Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
  • Learns and develops proficiency in working with appropriate materials, tools, and 18th c. methods as outlined through a five-level curriculum under the direction of the master or journeyman supervisor.
  • Research available information and may conduct ongoing supplemental research to the existing body of knowledge.
  • Applies learned hand skills and research through demonstration while employing the National Association of Interpretation techniques to provide in-depth seminars, workshops, and forums as required, using Colonial Williamsburg's assigned technological platforms.
  • Adheres to safety and security procedures for work, workshops, tools, and people.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

This is a non-exempt position, eligible to receive overtime in accordance with the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). This position may be subject to overtime during high peak times, etc. as directed and approved by the supervisor.
This job description reflects the general responsibilities of the position and is not intended to be an exhaustive list. Duties and responsibilities may evolve over time based on operational needs.
Required Education and Experience:
  • High School Diploma or equivalent
  • Must possess a valid Commonwealth of Virginia driver's license and have an acceptable driving record based on The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation's criteria.
    • Must be able to provide a 5-year Motor Vehicle Record prior to employment

    • Must be at least 21 years of age

    • May not have more than 1 moving violation or at fault accident within 12 months

    • May not have more than 2 moving violations or at fault accidents within 36 months

    • May not have any serious motor vehicle violations including but not limited to excessive speeding, reckless driving, DUI/DWI, suspended or revoked license, etc.

Preferred Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree or equivalent education, experience, and training. Woodworking or related craft experience. Some knowledge of 18th-century American history and decorative arts history.
Key Skills / Competencies:
Must have good communication skills; ability to learn, execute, demonstrate, research, and teach varied hand skills usually gained through progressive work experience.
Must have familiarity with various universal and specific computer platforms as designated by the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation.
Must have the ability to handle multiple priorities while working with a set of guidelines and procedures with general supervision, adapting to a changing work environment, and working a flexible schedule, including weekends.
Physical and Environmental Demands:
Stand: Constantly (5-8 hrs/shift)
Walk: Constantly (5-8 hrs/shift)
Sit: Frequently (2-5 hrs/shift)
Use hands/fingers: Constantly (5-8 hrs/shift)
Climb or balance: Occasionally (up to 2 hrs/shift)
Stoop/kneel/crouch/crawl: Occasionally (up to 2 hrs/shift)
Reach with hands/arms: Constantly (5-8 hrs/shift)
Talk or hear: Constantly (5-8 hrs/shift)
Lifting up to 10 lbs: Constantly (5-8 hrs/shift)
Lifting up to 25 lbs: Frequently (2-5 hrs/shift)
Lifting up to 50 lbs (with assistance): Occasionally (up to 2 hrs/shift)
Lifting up to 100 lbs (with assistance): Occasionally (up to 2 hrs/shift)
More than 100 lbs (with assistance): Rarely (not a regular part of the job)
Wet/humid conditions: Occasionally (up to 2 hrs/shift)
Work near moving mechanical parts: Frequently (2-5 hrs/shift)
Fumes/airborne particles: Constantly (5-8 hrs/shift)
Extreme cold: Rarely (not a regular part of the job)
Extreme heat: Rarely (not a regular part of the job)
Typical Work Schedule:
Regular/ FT; 40 hours/week (8:45 am to 5:15 pm)
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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