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Entry Level Carpenter Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Strategic Operations, Inc.

Carpenter

San Diego, CA · On-site

$19 - $25/hr

We are seeking a motivated Entry-Level Carpenter with a minimum of 3 years of hands-on carpentry experience to join our team. This role requires the ability to work on a variety of projects in both U.

Millwork Brothers, inc

Be Seen First

Woodshop Assistant / Driver

Cerritos, CA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

We are seeking motivated team players to assist with basic duties in our woodshop including learning/ performing entry level carpentry tasks, organize different departments, pick up materials from ...

One Week Bath

Remodel Associate

Van Nuys, CA

$15 - $19/hr

Looking for motivated, dependable, entry level individuals to join our hard-working team! We will ... Help with drywall, tiling, carpentry, painting, plumbing and more * Maintain cleanliness at job ...

One Week Bath

Remodel Associate

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$15 - $19/hr

Looking for motivated, dependable, entry level individuals to join our hard-working team! We will ... Help with drywall, tiling, carpentry, painting, plumbing and more * Maintain cleanliness at job ...

One Week Bath

Remodel Associate

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$15 - $19/hr

Looking for motivated, dependable, entry level individuals to join our hard-working team! We will ... Help with drywall, tiling, carpentry, painting, plumbing and more * Maintain cleanliness at job ...

Extra Space

Maintenance Personnel

Redondo Beach, CA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

... - Entry-level knowledge of basic building maintenance and some trade support, i.e, plumbing, masonry, custodial, carpentry, painting, doors, golf carts, etc. A traveling position that supports ...

Extra Space

Maintenance Personnel

Redondo Beach, CA

$19 - $20/hr

... - Entry-level knowledge of basic building maintenance and some trade support, i.e, plumbing, masonry, custodial, carpentry, painting, doors, golf carts, etc. A traveling position that supports ...

PAFCO

Personal Handyman

Vernon, CA · On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

Knowledge of various trades including electrical, plumbing, carpentry, and general home repairs ... Handyman compensation : • Entry -Level : $55,000 - $65,000 annually. • Experienced: $75,000 ...

Bish's RV

Entry level Service Technician

Fairfield, CA · On-site

$22/hr

We're looking for a motivated and hands-on Entry-Level RV Technician to join our service team. In ... and carpentry * Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment. * Help with the ...

Bish's RV

Entry level Service Technician

Fairfield, CA · On-site

$22/hr

We're looking for a motivated and hands-on Entry-Level RV Technician to join our service team. In ... and carpentry * Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment. * Help with the ...

beaconresidential

$18 - $18.75/hr

Performs various entry-level maintenance functions including minor repairs that do not require the need for a license in the following areas: electrical, plumbing, appliances, flooring, carpentry ...

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All JobsCarpenter JobsEntry Level Carpenter JobsEntry Level Carpenter Jobs in California

Entry Level Carpenter information

See California salary details

$13

$24

$35

How much do entry level carpenter jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level carpenter in California is $24.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.62 and $27.98 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does an Entry-Level Carpenter Do?

As an entry-level carpenter, you work with wood to build things like furniture, structures, artwork, and window and door framing. Your duties have you working with hand and power tools and selecting proper materials for each job. You receive instruction verbally and through blueprints. Your responsibilities include the assembly of new products, as well as the repair or demolition of existing items. You drill, sand, cut, and construct a project based on client requirements. As an entry-level carpenter, you may stand for long periods of time and carry heavy materials, so physical stamina is crucial.

What are the typical daily responsibilities for an entry level carpenter, and how do they contribute to larger construction projects?

As an entry level carpenter, your daily tasks often include measuring and cutting materials, assisting with framing, and supporting experienced carpenters with installations and site preparation. You'll also help maintain tools, clean job sites, and ensure materials are organized for efficient workflow. These foundational responsibilities are crucial, as they keep projects running smoothly, ensure safety standards are met, and provide you with hands-on learning opportunities that lay the groundwork for career advancement within the construction industry.

What is the lowest salary for a carpenter?

Entry-level carpenters typically earn starting salaries around $30,000 to $40,000 annually, depending on location and employer. Those with basic skills and certifications may start at the lower end of this range, especially in regions with lower living costs or less demand. Experience, specialization, and union membership can influence salary levels over time.

What does a beginner carpenter make?

A beginner carpenter typically earns between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on location, employer, and experience. Entry-level carpenters often start with basic skills and may receive on-the-job training, with wages increasing as they gain experience and certifications. Some may also work on a salary basis or hourly rate, with opportunities for advancement over time.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Entry level carpenters typically do not earn $4,000 a week; such high wages are usually associated with experienced trades, specialized skills, or union positions. High-paying roles without a degree often include skilled trades like electricians, plumbers, or construction supervisors, especially with overtime or project-based work.

How do I become a carpenter with no experience?

To become an entry-level carpenter with no experience, you can start by gaining basic skills through vocational training or community college courses, and learn to use essential tools like saws and drills. Many employers offer on-the-job training, so applying for apprenticeships or entry-level positions can help you gain practical experience and develop your skills in construction environments. Obtaining a high school diploma or equivalent is often required, and physical fitness is important for the demanding nature of the work.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Carpenter, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Carpenter, you need basic knowledge of carpentry techniques, hand and power tool usage, and the ability to read blueprints or measurements, often gained through a high school diploma or apprenticeship. Familiarity with tools like saws, drills, levels, and safety equipment is standard, and OSHA safety certification may be required. Attention to detail, strong work ethic, and the ability to communicate and work well with a team are essential soft skills. These skills and qualities ensure safe, accurate, and efficient construction work, laying the foundation for long-term career growth.

What does an entry level carpenter do?

An entry level carpenter assists with basic carpentry tasks such as measuring, cutting, and assembling wood and other materials under the supervision of experienced carpenters. They help build, install, or repair frameworks, structures, and fixtures in residential, commercial, or industrial settings. Common duties include using hand and power tools, following blueprints, and ensuring work areas are clean and safe. Over time, entry level carpenters gain hands-on experience and can advance to more complex tasks as they develop their skills.

What is the difference between Entry Level Carpenter vs Apprentice Carpenter?

AspectEntry Level CarpenterApprentice Carpenter
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some may have vocational trainingEnrolled in apprenticeship program, combining on-the-job training with classroom instruction
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, residential and commercial projectsSame as Entry Level Carpenter, often working under supervision
Employer & Industry UsageGeneral construction companies, remodeling firmsConstruction companies, union programs, trade schools

While both roles involve working on construction sites and require similar credentials, an Entry Level Carpenter is typically someone starting out with basic skills, whereas an Apprentice Carpenter is actively enrolled in a formal training program to develop carpentry skills under supervision. The apprentice role often leads to becoming a fully qualified carpenter.

More about Entry Level Carpenter jobs
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 Entry Level Carpenter jobs in California? For Entry Level Carpenter jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Carpenter jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Carpenter jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Carpenter jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Carpenter job openings:
Entry Level Carpenter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Carpenter job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 19% Locum Tenens, 2% Internship, 70% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $51,432 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

Carpenter

Strategic Operations, Inc.

San Diego, CA • On-site

$19 - $25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

About Strategic Operations, Inc.
Since 2002, Strategic Operations, Inc. (STOPS) has been providing training services and products for the military, law enforcement, first responders, and other organizations responsible for Homeland Security. STOPS is committed to excellence through state-of-the-art live action training support - employing "Hollywood" style special effects, role players, props of all kinds, 3D targets, the re-locatable habitat unit (RHU), and the conversion of shipping containers to create immersive training environments that are the most unique in the industry.
STOPS calls this type of immersion training - Hyper-Realistic® and defines it as "such a high degree of fidelity in the replication of specific conditions in a training environment that participants so willingly suspend disbelief that they become totally immersed and eventually stress inoculated" - all their senses tell them, emotionally and intellectually, that the scenarios are real. It is the ultimate in Theater Immersion Training.
STOPS continues to introduce innovative solutions to overcome the challenges of limited budgets. We are adept at creating real-life training situations/environments or providing safe, sound, and reliable housing for disaster response.
Position Overview:
We are seeking a motivated Entry-Level Carpenter with a minimum of 3 years of hands-on carpentry experience to join our team. This role requires the ability to work on a variety of projects in both U.S. and international locations. The ideal candidate will have a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Perform basic to intermediate carpentry tasks, including measuring, cutting, assembling, and installing wood, metal, and other materials.
  • Assist with the construction, repair, and maintenance of structures and fixtures.
  • Operate hand tools, power tools, and other equipment safely and efficiently.
  • Follow blueprints, drawings, and technical instructions with accuracy.
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment.
  • Support senior carpenters and project leads as needed on job sites.
  • Travel to various job sites, including occasional international assignments.
  • Adhere to all safety, security, and site-specific requirements, including those for military installations.

Qualifications:
  • Minimum of 3 years of carpentry experience.
  • Ability to gain access to and work on U.S. military installations (must meet all security clearance requirements).
  • Willingness and ability to travel, including internationally.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and attention to detail.
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints, drawings, and technical documents.
  • Familiarity with hand tools, power tools, and standard carpentry practices.
  • Reliable transportation and a valid driver's license.

The pay range for this role is:
19 - 25 USD per hour (STOPS)

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