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Formwork Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Union Concrete Carpenter

Chicago, IL

$22.50 - $30.50/hr

A concrete carpenter constructs and installs wood or metal formwork, which serves as a mold for pouring concrete into desired shapes for foundations, walls, floors, decks and other concrete elements.

Union Concrete Carpenter

Chicago, IL

$22.50 - $30.50/hr

A concrete carpenter constructs and installs wood or metal formwork, which serves as a mold for pouring concrete into desired shapes for foundations, walls, floors, decks and other concrete elements.

Union Concrete Carpenter

Chicago, IL · On-site

$22.50 - $30.50/hr

Formwork Construction Build and install the temporary structures (forms) made of wood and metal that hold fresh concrete in place until it cures. This includes utilizing multiple types of framing ...

Union Laborer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

Transport, pour, vibrate and grade concrete into existing formwork * Maintain a clean and safe worksite by sweeping, picking up debris, transporting tools and equipment, dumping debris, removing snow ...

Union Laborer

Chicago, IL

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

Transport, pour, vibrate and grade concrete into existing formwork * Maintain a clean and safe worksite by sweeping, picking up debris, transporting tools and equipment, dumping debris, removing snow ...

Structural Welder

Chicago, IL

$22.25 - $29/hr

Formwork / carpentry * Rebar replacement * Caulking * Expansion joints * Coating application * Carbon Fiber installation Candidates should have experience working in Industrial Plants and Refineries.

Concrete Technician 1

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20 - $27/hr

Formwork / carpentry * Rebar replacement * Concrete Coating application * Fireproofing Installation * Structural Steel Welding * Equipment Grouting Successful candidates must meet the following ...

Concrete Technician 1

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20 - $27/hr

Formwork / carpentry * Rebar replacement * Concrete Coating application * Fireproofing Installation * Structural Steel Welding * Equipment Grouting Successful candidates must meet the following ...

Structural Welder

Chicago, IL · On-site

$22.25 - $29/hr

Formwork / carpentry * Rebar replacement * Caulking * Expansion joints * Coating application * Carbon Fiber installation Candidates should have experience working in Industrial Plants and Refineries.

Formwork / carpentry * Rebar replacement * Concrete Coating application * Fireproofing Installation * Structural Steel Welding * Equipment Grouting Successful candidates must meet the following ...

Union Laborer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

Transport, pour, vibrate and grade concrete into existing formwork * Maintain a clean and safe worksite by sweeping, picking up debris, transporting tools and equipment, dumping debris, removing snow ...

Carpenter Journeyman

Chicago, IL · On-site

$27 - $35.25/hr

Carpenter Journeyman SUMMARY Mortenson is currently seeking a Carpenter Journeyman that will be responsible for providing skilled craftsmanship for installation of formwork, finish carpentry and ...

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Formwork information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$16

$23

$29

How much do formwork jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for formwork in Chicago, IL is $23.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.30 and $25.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Formwork vs Carpenter?

AspectFormworkCarpenter
Primary RoleConstructs molds and frameworks for concreteBuilds, installs, and repairs wooden structures and fixtures
Skills & CertificationsKnowledge of concrete forms, blueprint reading, safety certificationsCarpentry skills, woodworking certifications, safety training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, focusing on concrete structuresVaried settings including residential, commercial, and industrial projects
Industry UsageIntegral to concrete construction projectsBroadly used across construction and renovation projects

While both formworkers and carpenters work on construction sites, formworkers specialize in creating molds for concrete, whereas carpenters focus on building wooden structures. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right profession or job role within the construction industry.

What does a formworker do?

A formworker constructs and assembles formwork, which are temporary or permanent molds used to hold concrete in place during construction. They measure, cut, and install materials like wood, metal, or plastic, ensuring the formwork is secure and level before concrete pouring. This job requires knowledge of safety procedures, tools, and reading blueprints or technical drawings.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

In the construction industry, highly experienced project managers, executive-level construction company owners, and specialized consultants can earn $500,000 or more annually. These roles often require extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership responsibilities, especially in large-scale or commercial projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Formwork Carpenter, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Formwork Carpenter, you need a solid understanding of construction principles, blueprint reading, and hands-on carpentry skills, typically gained through an apprenticeship or vocational training. Proficiency in using power tools, concrete forming systems, and safety equipment is essential, along with relevant certifications like OSHA. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong problem-solving abilities help individuals excel in this physically demanding and precise role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring structural integrity, maintaining safety, and meeting project deadlines in construction environments.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

In the field of formwork and construction, experienced supervisors or specialized tradespeople can earn around $10,000 per month through overtime, high-demand projects, or union wages. These roles typically require technical skills, on-the-job training, and certifications rather than a college degree.

What are the typical challenges faced by formwork professionals on construction sites?

Formwork professionals often encounter challenges such as working in changing weather conditions, managing tight project deadlines, and ensuring strict adherence to safety regulations. The role requires close coordination with other trades, such as concrete workers and site supervisors, to ensure that formwork is set up accurately and on schedule. Attention to detail is critical, as errors in formwork can impact the quality and safety of the finished structure. Continuous learning about new materials and techniques is also important for career advancement in this field.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

In the construction industry, specialized roles such as experienced formwork carpenters or supervisors can earn around $2,000 per day, especially with extensive experience, certifications, and working on large-scale projects. High-paying construction jobs often require advanced skills, safety training, and the ability to work in demanding environments. Such earnings are typically associated with unionized or highly skilled positions in major projects.

What is formwork in construction?

Formwork refers to the temporary or permanent molds used to hold wet concrete in place until it hardens and gains enough strength to support itself. It is an essential part of the construction process for creating concrete structures such as walls, columns, and slabs. Formwork can be made from materials like wood, metal, or plastic, and its design and quality greatly impact the final shape and surface finish of the concrete. Proper formwork ensures safety, efficiency, and the desired structural integrity of the finished project.
Infographic showing various Formwork job openings in Chicago, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,359 per year, or $23.7 per hour.
Union Concrete Carpenter

Union Concrete Carpenter

powercon

Chicago, IL

$22.50 - $30.50/hr

Other

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY:

A concrete carpenter constructs and installs wood or metal formwork, which serves as a mold for pouring concrete into desired shapes for foundations, walls, floors, decks and other concrete elements. Their responsibilities include building and dismantling these forms and ensuring precision and safety on the construction site. They must interpret blueprints, operate hand and power tools, and follow OSHA safety regulations.  

Major Responsibilities:

  • Formwork Construction 

Build and install the temporary structures (forms) made of wood and metal that hold fresh concrete in place until it cures. This includes utilizing multiple types of framing systems for foundations, vertical wall and core systems, elevated decking and miscellaneous elements of concrete forming.

  • Blueprint Interpretation 

Read and understand construction blueprints to accurately construct the formwork for specific projects, such as foundations, walls, or elevated decks.

  • Formwork Dismantling: 

After the concrete hardens, carefully remove and dismantle the formwork in certain scenarios where forming systems are reused.

  • Tool Operation: 

Proficiently use a range of carpenter's hand tools and power tools for cutting, assembling, and finishing tasks. 

  • Safety Compliance: 

Adhere to all safety procedures and regulations, such as those from OSHA, to maintain a safe working environment. 

  • Quality Control: 

Use measuring tools to ensure accuracy and the quality of the concrete placement. 

Position Requirements:

  • Proficiency with carpentry hand and power tools.
  • Strong understanding of construction and blueprint reading.
  • Physical fitness and the ability to work well with their hands.
  • Good problem-solving and attention-to-detail skills.
  • Familiarity with safety regulations and proper use of personal protective equipment.