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Carpentry Trainee Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

QXO

Carpenter Trainee (Entry-Level)

Naperville, IL · On-site

$20/hr

Start Your Career in Carpentry - We'll Train You We are the largest production residential carpentry contractor in the Chicago suburban market , and we're hiring Carpenter Trainees to join our ...

QXO

Carpenter Trainee (Entry-Level)

Naperville, IL · On-site

$20 - $55/hr

Start Your Career in Carpentry - We'll Train You We are the largest production residential carpentry contractor in the Chicago suburban market , and we're hiring Carpenter Trainees to join our ...

DH Pace

Entry Door Technician

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18.50 - $22/hr

We are hiring both Experienced Commercial Dock and Door Technicians or Trainees! This individual ... installer, carpenter, mechanic, assembly worker, or any skilled trade, you may find this ...

DH Pace

Entry Door Technician

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18.50 - $22/hr

We are hiring both Experienced Commercial Dock and Door Technicians or Trainees! This individual ... installer, carpenter, mechanic, assembly worker, or any skilled trade, you may find this ...

Revolution Workshop

Case Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50K - $53K/yr

Revolution Workshop is a social enterprise that provides carpentry and woodworking workforce ... This Case Manager oversees the progression of individual trainees through their enrollment ...

DH Pace

Commercial Door Technician

Wheaton, IL · On-site

We are hiring both Experienced Commercial Dock and Door Technicians or Trainees! Must be able to ... Experience in construction, as a general laborer, service technician, installer, carpenter ...

DH Pace

Commercial Door Technician

Wheaton, IL · On-site

We are hiring both Experienced Commercial Dock and Door Technicians or Trainees! Must be able to ... Experience in construction, as a general laborer, service technician, installer, carpenter ...

DH Pace

Commercial Door Technician

Carol Stream, IL · On-site

We are hiring both Experienced Commercial Dock and Door Technicians or Trainees! Must be able to ... Experience in construction, as a general laborer, service technician, installer, carpenter ...

DH Pace

Commercial Door Technician

Chicago, IL · On-site

We are hiring both Experienced Commercial Dock and Door Technicians or Trainees! Must be able to ... Experience in construction, as a general laborer, service technician, installer, carpenter ...

DH Pace

Commercial Door Technician

Carol Stream, IL · On-site

We are hiring both Experienced Commercial Dock and Door Technicians or Trainees! Must be able to ... Experience in construction, as a general laborer, service technician, installer, carpenter ...

DH Pace

Entry Door Technician

Chicago, IL

$26 - $39/hr

We are hiring both Experienced Commercial Dock and Door Technicians or Trainees! This individual ... Experience in construction, as a general laborer, service technician, installer, carpenter ...

DH Pace

Entry Door Technician

Chicago, IL · On-site

$26 - $39/hr

We are hiring both Experienced Commercial Dock and Door Technicians or Trainees! This individual ... Experience in construction, as a general laborer, service technician, installer, carpenter ...

DH Pace

Entry Door Technician

Chicago, IL · On-site

$26 - $39/hr

We are hiring both Experienced Commercial Dock and Door Technicians or Trainees! This individual ... Experience in construction, as a general laborer, service technician, installer, carpenter ...

DH Pace

Commercial Door Technician

Carol Stream, IL · On-site

$26 - $39/hr

We are hiring both Experienced Commercial Dock and Door Technicians or Trainees! Must be able to ... Experience in construction, as a general laborer, service technician, installer, carpenter ...

DH Pace

Commercial Door Technician

Carol Stream, IL · On-site

$26 - $39/hr

We are hiring both Experienced Commercial Dock and Door Technicians or Trainees! Must be able to ... Experience in construction, as a general laborer, service technician, installer, carpenter ...

DH Pace

Commercial Door Technician

Wheaton, IL · On-site

$26 - $39/hr

We are hiring both Experienced Commercial Dock and Door Technicians or Trainees! Must be able to ... Experience in construction, as a general laborer, service technician, installer, carpenter ...

DH Pace

Commercial Door Technician

Chicago, IL

$26 - $39/hr

We are hiring both Experienced Commercial Dock and Door Technicians or Trainees! Must be able to ... Experience in construction, as a general laborer, service technician, installer, carpenter ...

DH Pace

Commercial Door Technician

Wheaton, IL · On-site

$26 - $39/hr

We are hiring both Experienced Commercial Dock and Door Technicians or Trainees! Must be able to ... Experience in construction, as a general laborer, service technician, installer, carpenter ...

DH Pace

Commercial Door Technician

Carol Stream, IL

$26 - $39/hr

We are hiring both Experienced Commercial Dock and Door Technicians or Trainees! Must be able to ... Experience in construction, as a general laborer, service technician, installer, carpenter ...

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Carpentry Trainee information

What can a carpentry trainee expect in terms of hands-on experience and on-the-job training during their first year?

As a Carpentry Trainee, you can expect to spend most of your time working alongside experienced carpenters, learning through direct, hands-on tasks such as measuring, cutting, assembling, and installing materials. You'll gradually take on more complex responsibilities as your skills develop, with frequent supervision and feedback to ensure safety and quality. The first year typically includes both classroom instruction on carpentry fundamentals and significant time on job sites, exposing you to a variety of projects and construction environments. This blend of practical and theoretical learning is designed to build your competence and confidence, setting a strong foundation for career advancement.

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

To thrive as a Carpentry Trainee, you need a basic understanding of construction principles, manual dexterity, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand tools, power tools, measuring devices, and safety procedures is essential, often gained through on-the-job training or vocational programs. Strong attention to detail, willingness to learn, and effective teamwork make someone stand out in this role. These skills ensure work is completed accurately, safely, and efficiently while supporting growth into a skilled carpenter.

How do you get into a carpentry trainee career with no experience?

To start a carpentry trainee career with no experience, individuals can seek entry-level apprenticeships or training programs offered by construction companies or trade schools. Basic skills in math, physical fitness, and familiarity with hand tools are helpful, and obtaining a relevant certification or license can improve job prospects. On-the-job training provides practical experience essential for advancement in carpentry.

Is it hard to get a carpentry apprenticeship?

Getting a carpentry apprenticeship can be competitive, as many programs seek candidates with basic math skills, physical fitness, and a willingness to learn. Applicants often need to demonstrate reliability and may be required to complete interviews or assessments; some programs also prefer or require a high school diploma or equivalent. Building a strong foundation in safety, tools, and basic carpentry skills can improve chances of acceptance.

What is a carpentry trainee?

Carpentry trainees are individuals who are learning the basics of carpentry, either through formal apprenticeships, vocational programs, or on-the-job training. They assist skilled carpenters with tasks such as measuring, cutting, and assembling wood and other materials. As trainees, they gain hands-on experience in using tools, reading blueprints, and following safety protocols. This role is the entry point to becoming a fully qualified carpenter, providing foundational skills and knowledge needed for advancement in the trade.

What is the difference between Carpentry Trainee vs Carpenter?

AspectCarpentry TraineeCarpenter
CredentialsOn-the-job training, apprenticeship programsCompleted apprenticeship or vocational training, certifications
Work EnvironmentLearning phase, supervised tasksFull responsibility for carpentry projects
Job RoleAssists experienced carpenters, learns skillsPerforms carpentry tasks independently

The main difference is that a Carpentry Trainee is in the learning phase, gaining skills under supervision, while a Carpenter has completed training and works independently on projects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Carpentry jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Carpentry jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Carpentry Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Carpentry Trainee job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Carpenter Trainee (Entry-Level)

QXO

Naperville, IL • On-site

$20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

QXO rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

115th of 416 rated retail wholesalers

Job description

Overview

QXO is a leading distributor and installer of building products serving an $800 billion market. The company's mission is to modernize the building products industry through advanced technology and a best-in-class customer experience. QXO is North America's largest distributor and installer of insulation, the second-largest distributor of roofing products, the second-largest publicly traded distributor of lumber and building materials, and the largest distributor of waterproofing products. The company is targeting $50 billion in annual revenue within the decade through accretive acquisitions and organic growth. For more information, visit QXO.com.

What you will do:

Start Your Career in Carpentry - We'll Train You

We are the largest production residential carpentry contractor in the Chicago suburban market, and we're hiring Carpenter Trainees to join our growing team.

Our job sites are located across the 8 counties surrounding Chicago, with immediate opportunities to learn the trade and build a long-term career in residential construction while working alongside experienced Foremen and crews.

Project Locations

This role supports active residential construction projects throughout the greater Chicago area, including the following counties and communities:

  • Will County: Plainfield, Joliet, Lockport, New Lenox, Manhattan
  • DuPage County: Aurora, Naperville, Woodridge, Lombard, Warrenville
  • Kane County: Aurora, St. Charles, Elgin, Batavia, Huntley, Pingree Grove, Sugar Grove
  • Kendall County: Oswego, Yorkville, Montgomery
  • Cook County: Tinley Park, Schaumburg, Bartlett, Lemont, Hoffman Estates, Northbrook
  • Lake County: Mundelein, Volo
  • McHenry County: Huntley, Crystal Lake, Johnsburg
  • DeKalb County:  DeKalb, Sycamore, Genoa, Cortland, Maple Park, Sandwich, Somonauk, Kingston

Travel between project sites may be required based on business needs.

What You'll Do

  • Assist with framing, sheathing, exterior trim, and general carpentry tasks
  • Support work on decks, interior trim, and residential structures
  • Work directly with Foremen and crew members to complete daily tasks safely and efficiently
  • Help with material handling, staging, and jobsite setup
  • Use hand and power tools under supervision
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and organized jobsite

 

Work Environment

  • Residential construction sites
  • Outdoor work in varying weather conditions
  • Physically active role (lifting, climbing, bending)
  • Overtime available based on project needs
What you will bring:
  • No experience required - we will train you
  • Strong work ethic and reliability
  • Willingness to learn and take direction from Foremen and team leads
  • Comfortable working outdoors in active construction environments
  • Ability to lift up to 75 lbs. (team lift when needed)
What you will earn:
  • Health Care Benefits
  • 401(k) with employer match
  • Paid Time Off 

QXO is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diversity and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender or sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status. 

To comply with Pay Transparency laws, employers must disclose an annual salary range. Actual offers depend on factors such as location, experience, skills, and market data. This position may also offer variable compensation. 

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Pay RangeUSD $20.00 - USD $55.00 /Hr.Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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