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Bench Carpenter Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

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Getting Information -- Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from Shop Foreman and Bench Carpenters. -Handling and Moving Objects -- Using hands and arms in handling, installing ...

Use of various hand and bench tools that are used in masonry, plumbing, carpentry, electrical and machine repair work. * Continually improve and monitor quality through product delivery, conformance ...

Use of various hand and bench tools that are used in masonry, plumbing, carpentry, electrical and machine repair work. * Continually improve and monitor quality through product delivery, conformance ...

Maintenance Technician

Pontiac, MI · On-site

$28 - $29/hr

... bench grinders, sanders.) Skillful in building and grounds maintenance carpentry, plumbing, pipefitting and related operations involving building repair and grounds maintenance. Must be able and ...

Maintenance Technician

Pontiac, MI · On-site

$28 - $29/hr

... bench grinders, sanders.) • Skillful in building and grounds maintenance carpentry, plumbing, pipefitting and related operations involving building repair and grounds maintenance. • Must be able ...

Bench Carpenter information

See Michigan salary details

$15

$20

$28

How much do bench carpenter jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for bench carpenter in Michigan is $20.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.78 and $23.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a bench carpenter?

A bench carpenter operates woodworking technology to cut, shape, or surface lumbar and assemble parts for wood products. As a bench carpenter, your job duties may include drawing up detailed customer specifications, reviewing blueprints and work orders to determine operational methods, and programming computers to operate machinery. You may also repair or alter wooden furniture, such as cabinets or paneling. The career typically requires a high school diploma or GED certificate and experience through on-the-job training or an apprenticeship program. Additional qualifications include strong mechanical skills and precision, attention to detail, and experience with woodworking machines such as power saws and jointers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a bench carpenter?

To thrive as a Bench Carpenter, you need proficiency in woodworking techniques, blueprint reading, and material selection, typically gained through vocational training or an apprenticeship. Familiarity with hand tools, power tools, measuring instruments, and sometimes CNC machines is essential, along with safety certifications. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and strong manual dexterity are crucial soft skills that set top performers apart. These skills ensure precise craftsmanship, efficiency, and the ability to meet custom project specifications safely and reliably.

What are some typical challenges bench carpenters face when working on custom projects?

Bench carpenters often encounter challenges such as interpreting complex blueprints, adapting to last-minute design changes, and working with various types of wood or materials that may behave differently during fabrication. Additionally, maintaining precision and attention to detail is crucial, especially when creating custom pieces that must fit exact specifications. Collaboration with designers and other trades is common, requiring clear communication to ensure the final product meets client expectations.

What is the difference between Bench Carpenter vs Framing Carpenter?

AspectBench CarpenterFraming Carpenter
CredentialsHigh school diploma, apprenticeship, possibly certifications in carpentryHigh school diploma, apprenticeship, similar certifications
Work EnvironmentIndoor workshops, manufacturing facilities, cabinetry shopsConstruction sites, residential and commercial framing projects
Job FocusManufacturing, assembling, and installing finished wood productsConstructing building frameworks, walls, and structures

Bench Carpenters typically work indoors in workshops, focusing on manufacturing and installing finished wood products, while Framing Carpenters work on construction sites building the structural framework of buildings. Both roles require similar skills and certifications but differ mainly in work environment and specific tasks.

How much do bench carpenters make?

Bench carpenters typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $62,000 depending on experience, location, and skill level. Factors such as certifications, specialized tools, and working in commercial or residential settings can influence pay rates.

What does a bench carpenter do?

A bench carpenter constructs, repairs, and installs woodwork and fixtures such as cabinets, furniture, and moldings. They work primarily in a workshop or on-site, using hand tools and power tools, and often require knowledge of blueprints and safety procedures.

What are popular job titles related to Bench Carpenter jobs in Michigan?

For Bench Carpenter jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Bench Carpenter jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Bench Carpenter jobs in Michigan are:

What are popular job titles related to Bench Carpenter jobs in MI?

For Bench Carpenter jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Bench Carpenter job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,662 per year, or $20 per hour.

Custom Cabinet Builder

Advantage Millwork

Grand Rapids, MI • On-site

$18 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 29 days ago

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Job description

Laminate, cut, shape, assemble of cabinets, countertops, solid surface materials. Using a variety of tools to shape and fabricate for custom countertops, sills, sinks and cabinets.

-Verify dimensions or check the quality or fit of pieces to ensure adherence to specifications.
-Measure dimensions of completed products or workpieces to verify conformance to specifications.
-Assemble wood products/cabinets when applicable.
-Set up or operate machines, including power saws, edge banders, sanders, router, to cut, mold, or shape wood stock, laminate or solid surfaces.
-Follow the specifications of articles to be constructed based on blueprints, drawings, diagrams, or oral or written instructions.
-Read work orders or other instructions to determine product specifications or materials requirements.
-Review blueprints or other instructions to determine operational methods or sequences.
-Attach parts or subassemblies together to form completed units, using glue, dowels, nails, screws, or clamps.
-Reinforce joints with nails or other fasteners to prepare articles for finishing.
-Install hardware, such as hinges, handles, catches, or drawer pulls, using hand tools.
-Attach decorative or functional accessories to products.
-Trim, sand, or scrape surfaces or joints to prepare articles for finishing.
-Trim excess material from workpieces.
-Drill holes in parts, equipment, or materials.

B. Work Activities:

Getting Information — Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from Shop Foreman and Bench Carpenters.

-Handling and Moving Objects — Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.

-Controlling Machines and Processes — Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).

-Performing General Physical Activities — Performing physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling of materials.

-Making Decisions and Solving Problems — Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.

-Inspecting Equipment or Material — Inspecting equipment or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.

-Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events — Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.

-Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates — Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates.

-Monitor Processes, Materials, or Surroundings — Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.

-Judging the Qualities of Things, Services, or People — Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.

-Thinking Creatively — Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products.

-Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work — Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work. Prioritizing will be determined by the shop Foreman and General Manager

-Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others — Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.

-Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge — Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.

-Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members

Company Description

Advantage Millwork supplies high quality products and craftsmanship to the retail, medical, educational, institutional, religious, non-profit, pharmacy, and laboratory sectors. We are capable of both high-volume production and one-time custom work.

Advantage Millwork offers full-service delivery including CAD services, shop drawing production, construction, shipping, and installation. Refinishing and resurfacing of existing units can also be done either at your facility or in our shop. Advantage Millwork has been in business since 1968 and is located just 6 miles Southeast of Downtown Grand Rapids Michigan. We are a proud member of the Architectural Woodwork Institute (AWI) since 2001 and have been certified by the Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®) since 2007.

Over the years we have grown significantly, more than tripling our floor space and greatly improving efficiency. Our employees are master and journeymen cabinet makers, specializing in plastic and metal laminates, veneers, solid surfaces, wood, and HDPE. We pride ourselves in our excellent quality and craftsmanship that is applied to every job that comes through our doors.