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Lead Finish Carpenter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Finish Carpenter

Chicago, IL · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Finish Carpenter - Execute Custom Residential Craftsmanship Across Chicago Job Overview: * Company ... You will work alongside Lead Carpenters and Project Managers to deliver exceptional quality and ...

Finish Carpenter - Execute Custom Residential Craftsmanship Across Chicago Job Overview: * Company ... You will work alongside Lead Carpenters and Project Managers to deliver exceptional quality and ...

Junior Finish CarpenterSJ Janis Company, Inc.Elm Grove, WIFull-Time | Onsite$35-$40 per hour, based ... and Lead Carpenters to deliver exceptional resultsMaintain clean, organized, and safe ...

Junior Finish Carpenter SJ Janis Company, Inc. Elm Grove, WI Full-Time | Onsite $35-$40 per hour ... Work closely with Project Managers and Lead Carpenters to deliver exceptional results * Maintain ...

Finish Carpenter

Ventura, CA · On-site

$28 - $43/hr

This role is ideal for a seasoned professional who is looking to elevate their craft, lead by ... Core Responsibilities: • Execute detailed interior and exterior finish carpentry in factory ...

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Lead Finish Carpenter information

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$14

$26

$36

How much do lead finish carpenter jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead finish carpenter in the United States is $26.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.32 and $30.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a lead finish carpenter do?

A Lead Finish Carpenter specializes in the final stages of carpentry, focusing on precise, detailed work such as installing trim, molding, doors, windows, cabinetry, and other fine woodwork. In addition to hands-on craftsmanship, they oversee a team of carpenters, manage project timelines, ensure quality control, and coordinate with contractors or clients. Their leadership ensures that the finished product meets design specifications and high standards of workmanship.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lead finish carpenter?

To thrive as a Lead Finish Carpenter, you need advanced carpentry skills, a strong understanding of building codes, and several years of experience, often accompanied by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with power tools, woodworking machinery, blueprint reading, and project management software is typically required. Leadership, attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication are standout soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure the delivery of precise, high-quality finishes while leading teams and coordinating efficiently with clients and contractors.

What are some common challenges a lead finish carpenter faces when managing multiple projects simultaneously?

As a Lead Finish Carpenter, balancing multiple projects often involves coordinating schedules, ordering materials in advance, and ensuring consistent quality across different job sites. You may need to manage a team of carpenters and subcontractors, address unforeseen issues like design changes or delays, and maintain clear communication with clients and site supervisors. Strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize tasks are essential to keep projects on track and uphold craftsmanship standards.

What is the difference between Lead Finish Carpenter vs Finish Carpenter?

AspectLead Finish CarpenterFinish Carpenter
CredentialsTypically requires several years of experience, carpentry certifications, and leadership skillsRequires carpentry experience and basic certifications, less emphasis on leadership
Work EnvironmentSupervises teams on construction sites, coordinates projectsPerforms detailed interior finish work, often independently or in small teams
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in commercial and high-end residential projects, often in larger firmsCommon in residential remodeling and interior finishing

The Lead Finish Carpenter oversees finish carpentry projects, manages teams, and ensures quality standards. Finish Carpenters focus on detailed interior work. The main difference lies in leadership responsibilities and scope of work, with the Lead Finish Carpenter having more supervisory duties.

What cities are hiring for Lead Finish Carpenter jobs?

Cities with the most Lead Finish Carpenter job openings:

What states have the most Lead Finish Carpenter jobs?

States with the most job openings for Lead Finish Carpenter jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Lead Finish Carpenter jobs?

For Lead Finish Carpenter jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Lead Finish Carpenter job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,107 per year, or $27 per hour.

Finish Carpenter

Chicago, IL • On-site

The Contractor Consultants
11 - 50 employees

$24 - $28/hr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Execute precision finish carpentry including custom millwork, trim, casing, baseboards, doors, and windows.

  • Verify precise layout and structural requirements prior to cutting wall framing, joists, and roof structures.

  • Interpret architectural blueprints and construction documents to translate design intent into precise field execution.


Job description

Finish Carpenter – Execute Custom Residential Craftsmanship Across Chicago


Job Overview:

  • Company: Arkwright Construction
  • Salary/Pay Rate: 24–28 per hour
  • Location: Chicago, IL
  • Job/Employment Type: Full Time
  • Project Scope: High-End Residential Remodeling
  • Mandatory Licenses & Certifications: Valid Driver's License


The Opportunity:

You will serve as a vital field craftsman, executing high-end rough and finish carpentry across custom residential remodeling projects. You will work alongside Lead Carpenters and Project Managers to deliver exceptional quality and attention to detail on every jobsite. This role offers clear advancement pathways into leadership for professionals dedicated to mastering their craft.


How You Will Make an Impact:

  • Execute precision finish carpentry including custom millwork, trim, casing, baseboards, doors, and windows.
  • Verify precise layout and structural requirements prior to cutting wall framing, joists, and roof structures.
  • Interpret architectural blueprints and construction documents to translate design intent into precise field execution.
  • Install structural blocking for cabinetry, railings, and specialty hardware to ensure seamless installation.
  • Maintain clean, organized, and safe jobsites throughout each project phase to protect finished work.
  • Communicate proactively with project leaders regarding field conflicts, material delays, or structural variations.
  • Mentor and guide carpenter apprentices on site to uphold quality craftsmanship and strict safety standards.


Required Qualifications & Experience:

  • 3 to 7 years of hands-on experience in high-end residential rough and finish carpentry.
  • Demonstrated proficiency using standard hand tools, power tools, and setting up clean jobsites.
  • Ability to read and interpret architectural blueprints, structural plans, and design drawings.
  • Proven measuring skills and a strong core understanding of construction geometry and math.
  • Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation to navigate jobsite locations across the Chicago area.
  • Physical capacity to lift up to 75 lbs and work safely across diverse jobsite conditions.


Preferred Qualifications & Experience:

  • Direct experience scribing and installing custom paneling and specialty architectural millwork.
  • Background in pre-fitting, leveling, and prepping custom residential cabinetry installs.
  • Demonstrated experience mentoring or training carpenter apprentices in a jobsite environment.


Compensation & Benefits:

  • Competitive hourly compensation rate ranging from $24.00 to $28.00 per hour.
  • Clear, performance-based advancement tracks toward Lead Carpenter and Project Manager positions.
  • Ongoing skill development and hands-on leadership mentorship from industry professionals.
  • Supportive team culture focused on long-term career growth, safety, and work-life balance.


About Us:

Arkwright Construction is a premier residential contractor specializing in high-end remodeling throughout the Chicago area. We are committed to fostering long-term careers, delivering exceptional craftsmanship, and maintaining a respectful, team-oriented work culture.


Arkwright Construction is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender expression, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), political affiliation, military service, or any other status protected by law or regulations. It is our intention that all qualified applicants be given equal opportunity and that selection decisions be based on job-related factors.