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Entry Level Carpentry Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

DH Pace

Entry Door Technician

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18.50 - $22/hr

If you have any experience in construction, as a general laborer, service technician, installer, carpenter, mechanic, assembly worker, or any skilled trade, you may find this opportunity to be a ...

Swoon Staffing

Cable Installer South Bend, IN

Hammond, IN · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

Previous experience in construction, electrical, installation, low voltage, carpentry, HVAC, solar ... Experience reading blueprints or construction drawings Why Join This Team? * Entry-level friendly ...

Association House of Chicago

Be Seen First

Solar PV Installation Training Facilitator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

... entry level clean energy industry positions. Associates Degree in related field preferred ... Skills in basic carpentry. * Physical ability to perform activities related to solar installation ...

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

$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 ...

As You Wish Handyman Services

Handyman

Saint Charles, IL · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

This is not an entry-level helper position. We're looking for someone who can be trusted to work ... Work May Include Drywall repair and patching Interior painting and touch-ups Minor carpentry and ...

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All JobsCarpentry JobsEntry Level Carpentry JobsEntry Level Carpentry Jobs in Chicago, IL

Entry Level Carpentry information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$14

$19

$26

How much do entry level carpentry jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level carpentry in Chicago, IL is $19.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.84 and $21.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is entry level carpentry?

Entry level carpentry refers to beginner positions in the carpentry trade, where individuals typically assist more experienced carpenters with basic tasks such as measuring, cutting, and assembling wood and other materials. These roles often include learning how to use hand and power tools safely, reading blueprints, and following instructions on construction sites or in workshops. Entry level carpenters gain valuable hands-on experience and foundational skills, which can lead to more advanced positions as they develop their expertise. Most entry level jobs require a high school diploma or equivalent, but formal training or apprenticeships can enhance job prospects.

What types of projects and tasks can I expect to work on as an entry level carpenter?

As an entry-level carpenter, you’ll typically assist with a variety of tasks such as measuring and cutting materials, assembling and installing frameworks, and maintaining tools and workspaces. You’ll likely support more experienced carpenters on residential, commercial, or remodeling projects, which helps you learn different construction techniques. Day-to-day responsibilities might include framing walls, installing doors or windows, and ensuring work areas are kept safe and organized. This hands-on experience is valuable for developing your skills and advancing to more complex carpentry tasks over time.

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 a basic understanding of woodworking techniques, measurement, and construction principles, often supported by a high school diploma or vocational training. Familiarity with hand and power tools, safety protocols, and the ability to read blueprints are essential for this role. Attention to detail, good communication, and a strong work ethic help you stand out on the job site. These skills and qualities are crucial for producing high-quality work, maintaining safety, and supporting team productivity in construction environments.

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

AspectEntry Level CarpentryApprentice Carpenter
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic safety trainingSame as Entry Level Carpentry; often requires enrollment in apprenticeship programs
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, residential and commercial projectsOn-the-job training alongside experienced carpenters on similar sites
Job RoleAssisting with basic carpentry tasks, learning tools and techniquesLearning trade skills, performing supervised tasks, gaining experience

Both roles involve entry-level work in construction environments, with apprentices focusing on learning and skill development under supervision. Entry Level Carpentry is often a broader job title, while Apprentice Carpenter emphasizes training and mentorship. Both paths serve as stepping stones toward becoming a skilled carpenter.

How much do entry level carpenters make?

Entry level carpenters typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on location, experience, and the complexity of projects. Starting salaries often increase with additional skills, certifications, and on-the-job training in residential or commercial construction environments.

What do entry level carpenters do?

Entry level carpenters perform basic construction tasks such as measuring, cutting, and assembling wood and other materials for building frameworks, structures, and fixtures. They often work under supervision, use hand and power tools, and may assist more experienced carpenters on various projects. Basic knowledge of safety procedures and the ability to read simple blueprints are also important for this role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Carpentry jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Carpentry jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Carpentry jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Entry Level Carpentry jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Carpentry jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Carpentry jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Entry Level Carpentry jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Entry Level Carpentry job openings:

Entry Level Carpentry jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Carpentry job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,103 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Chicago-Carpenter

Anning-Johnson Company

Melrose Park, IL • On-site

$55.11/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 hours ago

Job description

A Carpenter constructs, erects, installs, and repairs structures and fixtures of wood, metal, wallboard, etc., using carpenter’s hand tools and power tools, and conforming to local building codes. While maintaining the necessary production and quality required to complete a project and exceeding the customers’ expectations.

A Carpenter studies blueprints, sketches, or building plans for information pertaining to type of material required, such as metal studs or fiberboard, and dimensions of structure or fixture to be fabricated. Selects specified type of materials. Prepares layout, using tape, framing square, etc. Marks cutting and assembly lines on materials, using pencil, chalk, and marking gage. Shapes materials to prescribed measurements, using power and hand tools. Assembles, cuts and shapes materials and fastens them together with applicable fasteners. Verifies trueness of structures constructed prior to completion. Applies shock-absorbing, sound-deadening, and decorative paneling to ceilings and walls. Fits and installs prefabricated window frames, doors, doorframes, weather stripping, interior and exterior trim, and finish hardware, such as locks, letter drops, and kick plates.
 
Carpenters are typically responsible for the production and quality of the products they install. A carpenter will usually report to a foreman or lead man, and will be assigned a range of tasks to be completed. Timely production and quality are the main responsibilities of a carpenter. In addition, carpenters are responsible for working safely and maintaining a safe work environment.
 
Carpenters must work within precise limits and standards of accuracy. For example: carpenters must apply shop mathematics to solve problems; plan work and select proper tools; compare and see differences in the size, shape, and form of lines, figures, and objects; picture solid objects from drawings or diagrams; perform a variety of duties which may change often; and rate information using standards that can be measured or checked.
 
Physically, carpenters must be able to: Climb and maintain balance on scaffolds and ladders; reach for, handle, and manipulate objects and materials; lift and carry objects weighing up to 100 pounds; stoop, kneel, crouch, and crawl, and see well (either naturally or with correction).
 
Wages based on unions scales: Range is $18.18 per hour for entry level apprentice to $55.11 per hour for journeyman, scales vary somewhat based on job site location.