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Contract Carpenter Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Carpenter

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$20.50 - $27.75/hr

CARPENTER The carpenter is to assist the Foreman on the day to day activities for all stages of the ... Benefits are provided based on the union contract and additional benefits may be available through ...

Carpenter

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$21.25 - $28.75/hr

CARPENTER The carpenter is to assist the Foreman on the day to day activities for all stages of the ... Benefits are provided based on the union contract and additional benefits may be available through ...

Carpenter Assembler

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$18 - $28/hr

Remodeling Carpenter The Carpenter provides professional installation services for high-quality ... Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Urbandale, IA. Pay and ...

Construction Laborer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Carpentry Apprentice This role supports a variety of commercial construction projects within ... The position may begin as a contract role with the potential to transition to a longer-term ...

Window Installer

Grimes, IA · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

Carpenter - Window & Door Installer Location: Grimes, IA Job Overview We are hiring a Carpenter to ... Apply Directly Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Grimes, IA. Pay ...

Design Consultant

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$60K - $110K/yr

The contract can be completed electronically, quickly and efficiently. Renewal by Andersen of Eastern Iowa has our own carpenters to install the product, so the homeowner doesn't have to seek out a ...

Maintenance

Ottumwa, IA · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

... under service contracts; i.e. change oil, light bulbs, filters, etc. and monthly inspections ... Experience in Carpentry and Home Renovation needed.PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Must have the manual ...

Maintenance

Ottumwa, IA · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

... service contracts; i.e. change oil, light bulbs, filters, etc. and monthly inspections ... Experience in Carpentry and Home Renovation needed. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: * Must have the manual ...

... service contracts; i.e. change oil, light bulbs, filters, etc. and monthly inspections ... Experience in Carpentry and Home Renovation needed. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: * Must have the manual ...

Grounds Keeper

Osceola, IA

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

... with contract negotiations relating to grounds and snow/ice removal. · Will be required to ... This could include a variety of duties such as furniture moving, painting, and basic carpentry ...

Grounds Keeper

Osceola, IA

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

... with contract negotiations relating to grounds and snow/ice removal. · Will be required to ... This could include a variety of duties such as furniture moving, painting, and basic carpentry ...

Grounds Keeper

Osceola, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

... with contract negotiations relating to grounds and snow/ice removal. • Will be required to ... This could include a variety of duties such as furniture moving, painting, and basic carpentry ...

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Contract Carpenter information

See Iowa salary details

$13

$23

$33

How much do contract carpenter jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract carpenter in Iowa is $23.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.66 and $26.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contract carpenter?

Contract Carpenters are skilled tradespeople who work on a project-by-project basis, often hired by individuals, construction companies, or businesses to complete specific carpentry tasks. They may build, install, or repair structures and fixtures made from wood and other materials, such as framing, cabinetry, or trim work. Unlike full-time employees, contract carpenters operate as independent contractors, setting their own schedules and rates based on the needs of each job. They must also handle their own taxes, insurance, and sometimes provide their own tools and materials.

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

To thrive as a Contract Carpenter, you need strong skills in woodworking, blueprint reading, and construction techniques, typically backed by an apprenticeship or vocational training. Proficiency with hand and power tools, measuring instruments, and knowledge of building codes are essential, and OSHA safety certification is often required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication make someone stand out in this role. These skills ensure quality craftsmanship, adherence to safety standards, and successful collaboration on diverse construction projects.

What are some common challenges contract carpenters face when managing multiple projects simultaneously?

Contract Carpenters often juggle multiple projects with overlapping deadlines, which can make time management and resource allocation challenging. Balancing client expectations, coordinating with suppliers, and ensuring consistent quality across all jobs requires strong organizational and communication skills. Adapting to changing project scopes and unforeseen site conditions is also common, making flexibility and problem-solving essential traits for success in this role.

What is the difference between Contract Carpenter vs Journeyman Carpenter?

AspectContract CarpenterJourneyman Carpenter
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma and relevant work experience; licensing may be required in some statesRequires completion of an apprenticeship program and a journeyman certification or license
Work EnvironmentWorks on a project basis, often hired through contractors, and may work at multiple sitesWorks on-site with a construction crew, often as a full-time employee
Employer & Industry UsageHired by contractors or clients for specific projects in residential, commercial, or industrial constructionEmployed by construction companies or contractors, performing skilled carpentry tasks

While both Contract Carpenters and Journeyman Carpenters perform skilled carpentry work, Contract Carpenters typically work independently on project-based assignments, whereas Journeyman Carpenters are usually employed full-time by construction firms with a recognized certification. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job opportunity in the carpentry industry.

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

The most popular types of Carpenter jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Contract Carpenter jobs in Iowa?

For Contract Carpenter jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Contract Carpenter jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Contract Carpenter jobs in Iowa are:

Infographic showing various Contract Carpenter job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,949 per year, or $23.5 per hour.

$20.50 - $27.75/hr

Other

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

McGough is a respected partner that brings six generations of experience to high profile, unique and complex construction projects. We take great pride in our people and their extraordinary expertise in planning, development, construction and facility management. McGough employee tenure reflects the commitment and pride we share in our work. Ask anyone who knows us - the caliber of our people sets us apart.

CARPENTER

The carpenter is to assist the Foreman on the day to day activities for all stages of the project.

Required Qualifications

  • High school diploma or GED required
  • Positive attitude, strong work ethic, innovative and forward thinking

Office and Travel

  • Must be willing to travel regularly

Responsibilities and Tasks

  • Forming of foundations, wall, columns, decks, rough carpentry, finish carpentry, doors, hardware, and millwork.
  • Support and follow standard work.
  • Participate and support implementation of Lean and continuous improvement culture.
  • Strongly promotes and supports our safety policy.

Physical Requirements

The physical requirements listed here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Position requires performance of duties outdoors in a variety of weather conditions. Exposure to dirt, dust, and other materials is routine and may require the use of protective clothing and respirators. Jobs require an employee to frequently work on high structures such as ladders and scaffolds.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to reach with hands and arms. The employee frequently is required to stand; talk or hear; walk; and use hands to finger, handle, feel or operate objects, tools, or controls. The employee is occasionally required to sit and frequently climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.

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In alignment with our commitment to pay transparency, the hourly pay rate for this position is based on the collective bargaining agreement of the local union contract and considers geography, location and certifications. Benefits are provided based on the union contract and additional benefits may be available through the local union.