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Carpenter Helper Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Carpenter

Berkeley, CA · On-site

$35 - $55/hr

CARPENTER Sweitzer Inc. -- Berkeley, CA -- Full-Time ABOUT SWEITZER INC. Sweitzer Inc. is a fast paced and fast growing Berkeley based General B contractor, with a focus in hospitality and light ...

New

As a Finish Carpenter with PRST, you'll support high end custom home contractors in San Francisco County. In this Finish Carpenter role, you'll earn $35-$50/hour, enjoy weekly pay, health insurance ...

Carpenter

Dublin, CA · On-site

$38.92/hr

Carpenter (23130) Reports To: Facilities Maintenance Supervisor Position Location: U.S. Army Parks ... help participants secure and retain competitive employment. Calidad Industries provides equal ...

Carpenter

San Diego, CA · On-site

$20 - $35/hr

You are an experienced carpenter with quality work to prove it. If there is a problem on the job, your first instinct is to find a solution and focus on results. You can work autonomously with a high ...

Be Seen First

Carpenter

Berkeley, CA · On-site

$35 - $55/hr

CARPENTER Sweitzer Inc. -- Berkeley, CA -- Full-Time ABOUT SWEITZER INC. Sweitzer Inc. is a fast paced and fast growing Berkeley based General B contractor, with a focus in hospitality and light ...

New

Carpenter

Rocklin, CA · On-site

$20 - $35/hr

You are an experienced carpenter with quality work to prove it. If there is a problem on the job, your first instinct is to find a solution and focus on results. You can work autonomously with a high ...

Carpenter

Riverside, CA · On-site

$20 - $35/hr

You are an experienced carpenter with quality work to prove it. If there is a problem on the job, your first instinct is to find a solution and focus on results. You can work autonomously with a high ...

Carpenter

Orange, CA · On-site

$20 - $35/hr

You are an experienced carpenter with quality work to prove it. If there is a problem on the job, your first instinct is to find a solution and focus on results. You can work autonomously with a high ...

You are an experienced carpenter with quality work to prove it. If there is a problem on the job, your first instinct is to find a solution and focus on results. You can work autonomously with a high ...

Carpenter

San Diego, CA · On-site

$20 - $35/hr

You are an experienced carpenter with quality work to prove it. If there is a problem on the job, your first instinct is to find a solution and focus on results. You can work autonomously with a high ...

Carpenter

San Diego, CA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Career Advancement Opportunities Job Summary We are seeking a talented Carpenter to join our team! In this role, you will construct, install, and repair structures and fixtures of wood, plywood, and ...

Carpenter

San Diego, CA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Career Advancement Opportunities Job Summary We are seeking a talented Carpenter to join our team! In this role, you will construct, install, and repair structures and fixtures of wood, plywood, and ...

Carpenter

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$55K - $80K/yr

... help them understand what they need to have done and manage expectations about the scope of work ... As A Carpenter You Will Need The Following * You'll need to self-manage as you'll be alone often.

Carpenter

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$55K - $80K/yr

... help them understand what they need to have done and manage expectations about the scope of work ... As A Carpenter You Will Need The Following * You'll need to self-manage as you'll be alone often.

Carpenter

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$55K - $80K/yr

... help them understand what they need to have done and manage expectations about the scope of work ... As A Carpenter You Will Need The Following * You'll need to self-manage as you'll be alone often.

Showing results 41-60

Carpenter Helper information

See California salary details

$11

$18

$24

How much do carpenter helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for carpenter helper in California is $18.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $20.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a carpenter helper do?

A Carpenter Helper assists carpenters with various tasks on construction sites, such as carrying materials, preparing job sites, cleaning up debris, and using basic hand or power tools. They may also measure and cut materials, hold or secure wood pieces during assembly, and help with the installation of structures like doors, windows, or flooring. The role is typically entry-level and provides valuable hands-on experience for those interested in pursuing a carpentry career.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a carpenter helper, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Carpenter Helper, you need basic knowledge of carpentry techniques, familiarity with hand and power tools, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Experience with measuring devices, saws, drills, and sometimes OSHA safety certifications is valuable. Strong work ethic, attention to detail, and the ability to follow instructions and work well on a team are important soft skills. These abilities ensure safe, efficient project support and contribute to high-quality construction outcomes.

What are the most common challenges faced by carpenter helpers on construction sites?

Carpenter Helpers often encounter challenges such as adapting to physically demanding tasks, working safely around heavy machinery, and learning to use various hand and power tools efficiently. They must quickly adjust to changing priorities and weather conditions, as projects may shift from indoor to outdoor environments. Additionally, strong communication skills are essential for following instructions from lead carpenters and coordinating with other trades on-site to ensure projects run smoothly and safely.

What is the difference between Carpenter Helper vs Carpenter Apprentice?

AspectCarpenter HelperCarpenter Apprentice
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingTypically requires enrollment in an apprenticeship program
Work EnvironmentAssist carpenters on construction sites, indoors and outdoorsWork alongside experienced carpenters, learning skills on the job
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed in construction, remodeling, and carpentry projectsUsed in apprenticeship programs to develop carpentry skills
Search & Comparison IntentOften searched by entry-level workers or those exploring carpentry rolesCompared by those seeking to advance from helper roles to skilled carpentry

The main difference between a Carpenter Helper and a Carpenter Apprentice is that helpers assist with basic tasks and typically do not require formal training, while apprentices are enrolled in training programs to learn carpentry skills and gain experience. Apprentices often have more responsibilities and a clearer path to becoming skilled carpenters.

How much do carpenter helpers make?

Carpenter helpers typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of tasks. Entry-level helpers may start at the lower end, while those with more skills or certifications can earn higher wages. Overtime and union membership can also affect overall pay.

What is the role of a carpenter helper?

A carpenter helper assists carpenters with tasks such as measuring, cutting, and assembling materials like wood and drywall. They often handle basic tools, prepare work sites, and follow safety protocols to support construction or renovation projects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Carpenter jobs in California?

The most popular types of Carpenter jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Carpenter Helper jobs in California?

For Carpenter Helper jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Carpenter Helper jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Carpenter Helper jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Carpenter Helper jobs?

Cities in California with the most Carpenter Helper job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Carpenter Helper jobs in CA?

For Carpenter Helper jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Carpenter Helper job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,218 per year, or $18.9 per hour.

Carpenter

Sweitzer Inc.

Berkeley, CA • On-site

$35 - $55/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

CARPENTER

                                  Sweitzer Inc.  —  Berkeley, CA  —  Full-Time

ABOUT SWEITZER INC.

Sweitzer Inc. is a fast paced and fast growing Berkeley based General B contractor, with a focus in hospitality and light commercial interiors projects. We differentiate with our attention to detail, and the self-performance of many of our client’s architectural details and finishes. We maintain a wood-working and metal fabrication shop in Berkeley. Our work spans a wide range of materials and methods, with a primary focus on woodwork and metalwork. Beyond physical production, we're involved in the design details — ranging from supporting the design process to leading it.

While we're a small group, we work as part of a larger team of clients, architects, designers, and subcontractors that rotate with each project. Our team takes on new challenges in almost every project. We approach this with strong problem-solving and communication skills, and the ability to move fluidly between disciplines, and operate as part of a team. We think this makes for a fun and dynamic environment. 

While we aim to fill positions with specific trade responsibilities, we're still a small shop, and we seek people who are open to bringing and developing a diverse set of skills.

THE ROLE

We're looking for a versatile carpenter capable of performing a range of tasks from light framing and finish carpentry, to millwork installations. You'll work across a variety of commercial interior projects, alongside our team, and other trades, applying both rough and refined carpentry skills as each project demands, both in our shop, and on our job sites.

WHAT YOU'LL DO

•     Perform layout, and carpentry related tasks as needed on jobsites and in-shop.

•     Execute precise finish carpentry, including millwork, trim, and architectural detailing.

•     Read and interpret shop drawings, architectural plans, and design details.

•     Move between rough and fine work within the same project as scope requires.

•     Collaborate with the shop team, project leads, and outside trades to keep work on schedule.

•     Maintain and coordinate tools, materials, and a safe, organized work environment.

WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR

•     Solid experience across both rough and finish carpentry, in shop and field.

•     Comfort working with a range of materials, tools, and methodologies.

•     Strong problem-solving skills and flexibility to adapt as project needs shift.

•     Strong communication skills and the ability to work well within a small, close-knit team.

•     Willingness to develop new skills outside your core trade.

•     A valid drivers driver’s license.

WHAT WE’RE OFFERING

•     Competitive pay.

•     Employee matched 401k, Healthcare, and PTO.

•     An inclusive close-knit community to hone your skills with.

TO APPLY

Please send your resume and any relevant work samples with “Carpenter” in the subject line. 

We look forward to hearing from you!