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Union Carpentry Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

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Union Carpentry information

See Portland, OR salary details

$15

$26

$37

How much do union carpentry jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for union carpentry in Portland, OR is $26.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.16 and $30.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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.

Is becoming a union carpenter worth it?

Becoming a union carpenter offers benefits such as higher wages, comprehensive health insurance, retirement plans, and access to training programs that develop skills with tools like saws and drills. The job involves physical work in construction environments and often requires apprenticeships and certifications, but it provides stable employment and opportunities for advancement.

What are the most commonly searched types of Carpentry jobs in Portland, OR?

The most popular types of Carpentry jobs in Portland, OR are:

What are popular job titles related to Union Carpentry jobs in Portland, OR?

For Union Carpentry jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Union Carpentry jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Union Carpentry jobs in Portland, OR are:

What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Union Carpentry jobs?

Cities near Portland, OR with the most Union Carpentry job openings:

Union Carpentry jobs near you
Infographic showing various Union Carpentry job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 86% In-person, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,268 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Carpenter - Oregon & Washington

Portland, OR

Hoffman Corporation
See more jobs at Hoffman Corporationexternal

$23 - $31.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Application review will take into account without limitation the following criteria: union membership and qualifications, and experience specific to the job description/duties as well as prior experience with Hoffman Structures.

WORK DESCRIPTION:
Constructs, erects, installs, and repairs structures and fixtures of wood and plywood using carpenter's hand tools and power tools while conforming to local building codes.
Studies blueprints, sketches, or building plans for information pertaining to type of material required and dimensions of structure or fixture to be fabricated.
Select specified type of lumber or other materials.
Prepare layout using tape measure, framing square, builders levels & lasers.
Mark cutting and assembly lines on materials using pencil or chalk.
Shapes materials to prescribed measurements using saws, chisels and other hand tools.
Assembles cut and shaped materials and fastens them together with nails, screws, lags and nuts and bolts.
Verifies trueness of structure with plumb bob and carpenter's level.
Constructs forms and chutes for pouring concrete.
Erect scaffolding and ladders for assembling structures above ground level.
Belong to local union hall.

ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS:
Work is mainly outside thus exposed to various weather conditions.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
PHYSICAL:
Able to pass Pre-Employment & Regular Drug Tests.
Must be able to wear fall protection equipment and physically able to climb ladders and cranes.
Standing/Walking - Constantly (66% to 100% a day).
Bend (neck and back) - Frequently (33% to 66% a day).
Use of hands for repetitive grasping - Constantly (66% to 100% a day).
Use of hands for pushing & pulling - Frequently (33% to 66% a day).
Use of hands for fine manipulation - Occasionally (less than 33% a day).
Squatting & Kneeling - Occasionally (less than 33% a day).
Climb (stairs & ladders) - Occasionally (less than 33% a day).
Reaching Overhead - Occasionally (less than 33% a day).
Lift Overhead - Occasionally (less than 33% a day).
Knee Stand - Occasionally (less than 33% a day).
Lift/Carry - at least 40 pounds - Frequently (33% to 66% a day).
Pushing & Pulling - Frequently (33% to 66% a day).

MENTAL:
Constant mental alertness, accuracy, and attention to detail required.
Must be able to work independently and as a team.
Must be able to make decisions, and follow through on all assignments.
Must use creativity, independent judgment, and organizational and problem solving skills to determine best method to accomplish desired results.
Must be able to plan and organize work.
Must possess strong mathematical skills, calculate proper dimensions of components, read blue prints, manuals, and communicate with coworkers.
Must not be afraid of heights.
Work in a safe manner in compliance with Hoffman's Safety Policy.
Good attendance.
Must be able to read a tape measure.

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