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Union Carpentry Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

McGough Construction

Carpenter

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$21.25 - $28.75/hr

Forming of foundations, wall, columns, decks, rough carpentry, finish carpentry, doors, hardware ... Benefits are provided based on the union contract and additional benefits may be available through ...

Mortenson

Carpenter Journeyman

Cedar Rapids, IA

$35.12/hr

Perform concrete and rough carpentry (hand set walls, footings, gang wall forms, structural ... Union specific training * Ability to work with precision, visualize solid objects from drawings ...

Mortenson

Carpenter - Northwood, IA

Northwood, IA

$20.50 - $27.75/hr

Perform concrete and rough carpentry (hand set walls, footings, gang wall forms, structural ... A few benefits offered include: (for Non-Craft & Non-Union Craft working 25+ hours / week)

Turner Construction

Rough Carpenter

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

Non-Union Trade Position Description:Perform rough carpentry functions on jobsites as assigned and directed. Essential Duties & Key Responsibilities: * Fully comprehend scopes of work per plans and ...

Aerotek

Superintendent

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Demonstrate competency in managing site activity, labor relations, and union agreements ... Competence in carpentry and construction supervision. Additional Skills & Qualifications * Tech ...

New

Turner Construction

Laborer

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

$17.50 - $22.25/hr

Non-Union Trade Position Description:Perform tasks involving physical labor at construction ... Perform physical labor to assist with jobsite clean-up, rough carpentry, site logistics, fencing ...

All JobsUnion Carpentry JobsUnion Carpentry Jobs in Iowa

Union Carpentry information

See Iowa salary details

$13

$23

$33

How much do union carpentry jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for union carpentry in Iowa is $23.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.66 and $26.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by union carpenters on large construction projects?

Union carpenters on large construction sites often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple trades, adapting to rapidly changing project schedules, and ensuring strict adherence to safety regulations. These projects may require working overtime or in different weather conditions, and carpenters must remain flexible and communicative to meet tight deadlines. Additionally, union carpenters are expected to uphold high standards of craftsmanship while collaborating closely with project managers, supervisors, and other union members to keep the project on track.

Is becoming a union carpenter worth it?

Becoming a union carpenter offers benefits such as higher wages, better job security, and access to training and apprenticeship programs. It also provides opportunities to work on large projects with established safety standards and benefits like health insurance and retirement plans.

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

To thrive as a union carpenter, you need solid skills in blueprint reading, framing, and construction techniques, typically gained through an apprenticeship or vocational training. Familiarity with power tools, measurement systems, and safety certifications like OSHA 10 are common requirements. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong communication skills help union carpenters excel on diverse job sites. These qualifications ensure high-quality workmanship, job safety, and efficient project completion in a collaborative environment.

What is the difference between Union Carpentry vs Non-Union Carpentry?

AspectUnion CarpentryNon-Union Carpentry
CredentialsUnion membership, apprenticeship programs, certificationsTypically no union requirements, may have individual certifications
Work EnvironmentUnion job sites, regulated work hours, collective bargainingPrivate or non-union sites, flexible hours, independent work
Employer & Industry UsageLarge construction firms, government projects, unionized industrySmall contractors, freelance work, non-union projects

Union carpentry involves working on unionized job sites with collective bargaining agreements, often providing benefits and standardized wages. Non-union carpentry typically offers more flexibility and independence but may lack the same benefits. The choice depends on your career goals, desired work environment, and industry preferences.

What is union carpentry?

Union carpentry refers to the work performed by carpenters who are members of a labor union, such as the United Brotherhood of Carpenters. These professionals construct, install, and repair structures and fixtures made from wood and other materials, often on commercial, industrial, or residential projects. Being part of a union provides carpenters with collective bargaining for better wages, benefits, and working conditions, as well as access to ongoing training and apprenticeships. Union carpenters typically follow strict safety standards and work under contracts negotiated by their union representatives.
What are the most commonly searched types of Carpentry jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Carpentry jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Union Carpentry jobs in Iowa? For Union Carpentry jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Union Carpentry jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Union Carpentry jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Union Carpentry jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Union Carpentry job openings:
Union Carpentry jobs near you
Infographic showing various Union Carpentry job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,949 per year, or $23.5 per hour.

Carpenter

McGough Construction

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$21.25 - $28.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

McGough is a respected partner that brings six generations of experience to high profile, unique and complex construction projects. We take great pride in our people and their extraordinary expertise in planning, development, construction and facility management. McGough employee tenure reflects the commitment and pride we share in our work. Ask anyone who knows us - the caliber of our people sets us apart.
CARPENTER
The carpenter is to assist the Foreman on the day to day activities for all stages of the project.
Required Qualifications
  • High school diploma or GED required
  • Positive attitude, strong work ethic, innovative and forward thinking

Office and Travel
  • Must be willing to travel regularly

Responsibilities and Tasks
  • Forming of foundations, wall, columns, decks, rough carpentry, finish carpentry, doors, hardware, and millwork.
  • Support and follow standard work.
  • Participate and support implementation of Lean and continuous improvement culture.
  • Strongly promotes and supports our safety policy.

Physical Requirements
The physical requirements listed here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Position requires performance of duties outdoors in a variety of weather conditions. Exposure to dirt, dust, and other materials is routine and may require the use of protective clothing and respirators. Jobs require an employee to frequently work on high structures such as ladders and scaffolds.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to reach with hands and arms. The employee frequently is required to stand; talk or hear; walk; and use hands to finger, handle, feel or operate objects, tools, or controls. The employee is occasionally required to sit and frequently climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
In alignment with our commitment to pay transparency, the hourly pay rate for this position is based on the collective bargaining agreement of the local union contract and considers geography, location and certifications. Benefits are provided based on the union contract and additional benefits may be available through the local union.
Accessibility: If you need an accommodation as part of the employment process please contact Human Resources at
Email: HR@mcgough.com
Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled and veterans.
If you want to view the Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal poster, please choose your language: English - Spanish - Arabic - Chinese
English - Spanish - Chinese
If you want to view the Pay Transparency Policy Statement, please click the link: English

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