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Entry Level Carpenter Jobs in DeKalb, IL (NOW HIRING)

HHDC

Maintenance Tech I

Elgin, IL · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Hispanic Housing Development Corporation (HHDC) is seeking an entry-level Maintenance Technician I ... Perform basic plumbing, electrical, painting, drywall, carpentry, and general maintenance tasks ...

HHDC

Maintenance Tech I

Elgin, IL · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Hispanic Housing Development Corporation (HHDC) is seeking an entry-level Maintenance Technician I ... Perform basic plumbing, electrical, painting, drywall, carpentry, and general maintenance tasks ...

HHDC

Maintenance Tech I

Elgin, IL · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Hispanic Housing Development Corporation (HHDC) is seeking an entry-level Maintenance Technician I ... Perform basic plumbing, electrical, painting, drywall, carpentry, and general maintenance tasks ...

All JobsCarpenter JobsEntry Level Carpenter JobsEntry Level Carpenter Jobs in DeKalb, IL

Entry Level Carpenter information

See DeKalb, IL salary details

$13

$24

$34

How much do entry level carpenter jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level carpenter in DeKalb, IL is $24.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.53 and $27.84 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 DeKalb, IL?

The most popular types of Carpenter jobs in DeKalb, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Carpenter jobs in DeKalb, IL?

For Entry Level Carpenter jobs in DeKalb, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Carpenter jobs in DeKalb, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Carpenter jobs in DeKalb, IL are:

What cities near DeKalb, IL are hiring for Entry Level Carpenter jobs?

Cities near DeKalb, IL with the most Entry Level Carpenter job openings:

Entry Level Carpenter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Carpenter job openings in DeKalb, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,150 per year, or $24.6 per hour.

Maintenance Tech I

HHDC

Elgin, IL • On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Hispanic Housing Development Corporation (HHDC) is seeking an entry-level Maintenance Technician I to join our team at one of our apartment communities in Elgin, IL.

The Maintenance Technician I is responsible for helping maintain a clean, safe, and well-kept property by caring for building exteriors, common areas, vacant apartments, sidewalks, and alleyways. This role also assists with routine maintenance tasks, unit turns, and emergency maintenance as needed.

The ideal candidate is dependable, customer service-oriented, and committed to providing quality service to residents while following all company safety policies and procedures.

Full-Time: 40 hours per week
Schedule: Monday - Friday (On-call) 
Pay Rate: $20.00 - $22.00 per hour

Description of Duties:

Under the direction of the Maintenance Supervisor, the Maintenance Technician I performs routine maintenance, repairs, and general upkeep of apartment homes and community buildings throughout the housing portfolio.  Duties include, but are not limited to:

  • Assist with unit turns and help prepare vacant apartments for new residents. 
  • Excellent customer service skills with the ability to communicate professionally, respond to resident maintenance requests, and provide courteous, timely service.
  • Perform basic plumbing, electrical, painting, drywall, carpentry, and general maintenance tasks while maintaining a safe, clean, and well-kept property.
  • Assist with routine maintenance, cleaning, and basic repairs of heating, air conditioning, and other building systems. Report major issues to the Maintenance Supervisor as needed.
  • Maintain the cleanliness and appearance of common areas, building exteriors, sidewalks, parking areas, and grounds.
  • Respond to emergency maintenance calls during and outside of normal business hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as part of an on-call rotation or as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

  • High school education or equivalent 1+ years of full-time maintenance experience
  • Personable and trustworthy
  • Be professional and focused on providing excellent customer service
  • One (1) year of Heating and Air Conditioning experience is preferred.
  • Basic plumbing and electrical experience 
  • Shows concern for a work safety program.
  • Ability to lift at least 50 pounds and successfully perform the essential functions of this job
  • Vehicle, insurance and good driving record
  • Must have own tools.

Employee Benefits

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance 
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) 
  • Paid Vacation 
  • Paid Holidays 
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan 
  • Short-Term and Long-Term Disability 
  •  Tuition Reimbursement 
  • Employee Assistance Program (if applicable)
  • Ongoing Training and Professional Development

EOE

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