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Entry Level Carpenter Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Strategic Operations, Inc.

Carpenter

San Diego, CA · On-site

$26 - $32/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.

AEG

Entry Level Carpenter $22.00/HR

Vallejo, CA · On-site

$22/hr

In this hands-on role, you'll help keep rides and facilities running safely and looking great by applying your carpentry and construction skills to real-world challenges. From building and repairing ...

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 ...

Carpenter Co.

Pouring Line Engineer

Riverside, CA · On-site

$69K/yr

Carpenter Co. has an immediate opening for a 1st Shift Pouring Line Engineer at our Riverside, CA manufacturing plant. This position is an entry level position that will receive extensive training on ...

Carpenter Co.

Pouring Line Engineer

Riverside, CA · On-site

$69K/yr

Carpenter Co. has an immediate opening for a 1st Shift Pouring Line Engineer at our Riverside, CA manufacturing plant. This position is an entry level position that will receive extensive training on ...

Carpenter Canada Co.

Pouring Line Engineer

Riverside, CA · On-site

$62 - $76/hr

Carpenter Co. has an immediate opening for a 1st Shift Pouring Line Engineer at our Riverside, CA manufacturing plant. This position is an entry level position that will receive extensive training on ...

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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 Sep 5, 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?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level carpenter?

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 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.

How much do entry level carpenters make?

Entry-level carpenters typically earn between $15 and $20 per hour, which translates to approximately $30,000 to $40,000 annually for full-time work. Wages can vary based on location, experience, and whether they work in residential or commercial construction, often requiring basic skills with hand and power tools.
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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person 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

$26 - $32/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 27 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:
26 - 32 USD per hour (STOPS)

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