$14 - $20/hr
What We Are Looking For The Laborer - Civil Construction is an entry-level field role supporting earthwork, concrete operations, utilities installation, drainage systems, carpentry/formwork ...
Install Journeyman
San Juan, PR · On-site
$11 - $14/hr
Perform skilled and semi-skilled carpentry work to install custom storage systems such as closets ... High School diploma * Entry level; 2 to 4 years experience; Must have completed Helper and ...
Install Journeyman
San Juan, PR · On-site
$11 - $14/hr
Perform skilled and semi-skilled carpentry work to install custom storage systems such as closets ... High School diploma * Entry level; 2 to 4 years experience; Must have completed Helper and ...
Entry Level Carpenter information
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?
| Aspect | Entry Level Carpenter | Apprentice Carpenter |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | High school diploma or equivalent; some may have vocational training | Enrolled in apprenticeship program, combining on-the-job training with classroom instruction |
| Work Environment | Construction sites, residential and commercial projects | Same as Entry Level Carpenter, often working under supervision |
| Employer & Industry Usage | General construction companies, remodeling firms | Construction 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 Puerto Rico? The most popular types of Carpenter jobs in Puerto Rico are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Carpenter jobs in Puerto Rico? For Entry Level Carpenter jobs in Puerto Rico, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Carpenter jobs in Puerto Rico look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Carpenter jobs in Puerto Rico are:
Job description
Job Title: Laborer
Location: Puerto Rico
Reports to: Trade Foreman / General Foreman
Compensation Range: $14–$20 hourly (depending on location, experience, skills, and qualifications)
About Ceres Caribe
Ceres Caribe was founded in Puerto Rico in 1998 after Hurricane Georges. It has since grown to be one of the largest employers on the island by providing long-term careers and meaningful work. Ceres Caribe is recognized for its rapid disaster recovery operations including debris removal, demolition, and blue roofs. We perform resiliency services such as vegetation management and utility line clearing for the Puerto Rican power grid. Ceres Caribe is also nationally recognized for creating natural parks and an aviary center on the island. The company continues expanding its efforts to secure and strengthen Puerto Rico’s infrastructure.
Driven by Purpose, Powered by People
At Ceres Caribe, you're more than just an employee-you’re part of a mission. Whether in management, field operations, or behind the scenes, every team member plays a vital role in restoring hope, helping communities recover, and rebuilding stronger than before.
We value initiative, respect diversity, and give our people the freedom to lead. We offer competitive pay, travel opportunities, and a culture built on resilience and teamwork. If you show up with compassion, share the commitment, react with urgency, and deliver solutions, you’ll fit right in. We don’t just respond to challenges; we rise to them.
What We Are Looking For
The Laborer – Civil Construction is an entry-level field role supporting earthwork, concrete operations, utilities installation, drainage systems, carpentry/formwork activities, and general civil construction tasks. This position is essential to safe and efficient job site operations and works under direct supervision from the Trade Foreman or General Foreman.
Success in the first 12 months includes demonstrating safe work habits, learning basic construction tools and equipment, supporting skilled trades, maintaining job site cleanliness, and reliably performing assigned tasks across active civil construction zones.
What You Will Do
General Civil Construction Tasks
- Assist with earthwork activities including digging, trenching, grading, and backfilling.
- Support concrete crews with formwork preparation, rebar placement, mixing, pouring, and finishing tasks.
- Help utility crews install pipes, conduits, drainage structures, and related civil infrastructure.
- Load, unload, and move materials, tools, and equipment throughout the job site.
- Maintain clean and organized work areas, removing debris and ensuring safe access routes.
- Operate basic hand tools and light equipment such as shovels, rakes, wheelbarrows, compactors, and saws.
- Assist equipment operators with spotting, staging materials, and safe movement around heavy machinery.
- Follow instructions from Foremen and skilled trades to support daily production goals.
Carpentry & Formwork Support
- Assist carpenters with building, assembling, and installing formwork for concrete foundations, slabs, walls, and structural elements.
- Cut, carry, and stage lumber, plywood, stakes, and formwork materials.
- Help place, secure, and strip forms after concrete curing.
- Support layout activities by holding measuring tapes, levels, and chalk lines.
- Perform basic carpentry tasks such as hammering, nailing, drilling, and fastening under supervision.
- Maintain carpentry tools, clean work areas, and ensure materials are organized and ready for use.
- Assist with installing temporary structures such as barricades, bracing, shoring, and safety railings.
- Safely handle saws, drills, and other power tools with training and supervision.
Safety & Job Site Support
- Learn and apply safe work practices, hazard awareness, and job site protocols.
- Use required PPE and follow all company safety standards and procedures.
- Report unsafe conditions, near misses, or equipment concerns immediately.
- Maintain reliable attendance and meet daily performance expectations.
- Perform other duties as assigned by management.
Required Qualifications
- High School Diploma or GED.
- Less than 1 year of experience performing physical labor or construction work.
- Valid Driver’s License.
- Ability to regularly lift 50 lbs.
- Ability to work outdoors year-round in varying environments.
- Ability to follow direction, work in a team, and communicate effectively.
- Basic understanding of safety risks and safe work practices.
Preferred Qualifications
- Prior experience in construction, concrete, utilities, earthwork, or carpentry.
- OSHA 10 certification.
- Experience using basic construction tools or equipment.
- Bilingual (English and Spanish) preferred.
What to Expect
Laborers can expect a physically demanding, safety-critical role supporting civil construction operations. Work is performed outdoors in hot, humid, rainy, or extreme weather conditions and may involve exposure to heavy equipment, excavation sites, concrete operations, and high-noise environments.
Daily work includes assisting skilled trades, supporting carpenters and concrete crews, moving materials, supporting earthwork and utility activities, and maintaining safe job site conditions. Travel across Puerto Rico may be required depending on project needs. Success requires reliability, teamwork, safe work habits, and the ability to learn quickly in a fast-paced construction environment.
Physical Requirements and Environment
Ceres provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and to applicants with sincerely held religious beliefs, as required by law.
- Ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds regularly.
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, climb, and work outdoors for extended periods.
- Ability to work in adverse weather, extreme heat, wet or humid conditions, uneven terrain, and around moving mechanical parts.
- Willingness to wear PPE including hard hat, protective eyewear, gloves, and safety footwear.
- Commitment to following all safety standards and protocols.
Why Join Ceres Caribe?
At Ceres Caribe, you won’t just have a job-you’ll have a mission. Your work will directly impact the reliability and resiliency of Puerto Rico’s infrastructure and help strengthen communities throughout the island.
We offer:
- A collaborative, mission-driven culture.
- Opportunities for professional growth and advancement.
- The chance to make a lasting difference for communities across Puerto Rico.
Ceres Caribe is proud to be an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to age, race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, religion, disability, pregnancy, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.
E-Verify: We comply with Federal law by verifying employment eligibility.