Carpenter Jobs in California
Carpenter jobs in California are among the most active in the nation, concentrated in residential construction, commercial build-out, and large-scale infrastructure projects, with openings at every level from apprentice to lead foreman. The heaviest hiring happens in Los Angeles, the San Francisco Bay Area, and San Diego, where builders like Swinerton, Webcor, and DR Horton maintain steady project pipelines across the state. Finish carpentry, framing, and form carpentry for concrete work are the most in-demand specialties right now. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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INTRODUCTION
At the University of California, Berkeley, we are dedicated to fostering a community where everyone feels welcome and can thrive. Our culture of openness, freedom, and belonging make it a special place for students, faculty, and staff.
As a world-leading institution, Berkeley is known for its academic and research excellence, public mission, diverse student body, and commitment to equity and social justice. Since our founding in 1868, we have driven innovation, creating global intellectual, economic, and social value.
We are looking for applicants who reflect California's diversity and want to be part of an inclusive, equity-focused community that views education as a matter of social justice. Please consider whether your values align with our Guiding Values and Principles, Principles of Community, and Strategic Plan.
At UC Berkeley, we believe that learning is a fundamental part of working, and provide space for supportive colleague communities via numerous employee resource groups (staff organizations). Our goal is for everyone on the Berkeley campus to feel supported and equipped to realize their full potential. We actively support this by providing all of our full-time staff employees with at least 80 hours (10 days) of paid time per year to engage in professional development activities. Find out more about how you can grow your career at UC Berkeley.
DEPARTMENTAL OVERVIEW
Facilities Services works to continuously improve the campus in partnership with all members of the University community to ensure that classrooms, laboratories, and offices support teaching, learning, and research. Through the efforts of over 400 dedicated staff members and serving over 10M building square feet and 1100 acres, Facilities Services includes the asset management program, custodial services, maintenance operations, engineering and technical services, environmental services, grounds operations, the Cal Zero Waste program.
Position Summary
Perform tasks related to the Carpentry craft on Campus.
The Carpenter is responsible for the management and completion of projects requiring the specific skills of the trade for all buildings on campus, under general supervision. It engages in projects for campus clients requiring the highly specialized skills of carpentry work. This position requires general knowledge of all building systems.
APPLICATION REVIEW DATE
The First Review Date for this job is June 16, 2026. For full consideration, please apply on or before the first review date.
Responsibilities
Carpentry Work:
- Perform carpentry work which includes construction, maintenance, and alteration or repair of structures, on campus buildings and facilities.
- Engage in projects requiring highly specialized skills Carpentry work.
- Carpenters work includes, but is not limited to: the ability to service, overhaul, troubleshoot, repair, fabricate, and install counters, cabinets, hardware, shelving, chalkboards, Formica tops, benches, partitions, floors, stairs, decks, railings and to patch plaster, etc.
- Perform all types of carpenter work related to alterations, additions, and repairs of existing campus buildings, such as, but not limited to: removal and demolition work, erection of wall frames, doors and window openings, installation of sheet rock, ceiling tiles, etc.
- Fabricate, install and construct framing and finish work associated with excavation shoring, concrete forms, footings, floors, floor covering, walls, ceilings, window and door frames, casements, roofing, stairs, handrails, retaining walls and guard rails; install office, laboratory, and classroom paneling, moldings, fixed furniture and cabinets.
- Install building framework and trim by the means of using hand and power tools.
Administrative Duties:
- Adherence to the scheduling of work through the work management program is required.
- Consult shop superintendent and/or lead for technical information.
- Support maintenance projects and programmatic work assignments.
- Keep accurate work records and complete paperwork in a neat and timely manner.
- Define and describe materials, tools and/or equipment, work methods and task sequences.
- Serve as liaison with clients, relaying their needs and requirements to the appropriate department or Superintendent.
- Obtain materials and equipment as required.
- Plan the methods and procedures required to complete installation, alterations, additions and repair work for all types of carpentry work.
- Prepare isometric drawings in detail showing measurements and materials with information obtained from blueprints and verbal instructions.
Safety:
- Adhere to all University and departmental safety guidelines.
- Attend job-related and safety training as required.
Other:
- Perform other duties as assigned.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Employee must possess three years journeyman experience in a comparable position or related experience in a university, hospital or large building complex.
- Education and training in carpentry can be through documented experience and/or professional development through an accredited college or university.
- Must possess knowledge and ability to utilize correct tools, techniques and methods for handling specific carpentry projects by applying thorough knowledge of codes and the skills of a craftsperson.
- Ability to prepare isometric drawings in detail showing measurements and materials with information obtained from blueprints and verbal instructions.
- Must have the ability to operate woodworking machines and tools needed to perform skilled related job tasks.
- Ability to work in confined spaces and to gain access to areas that normally require stairs, ladders and scaffolding using specific methods to perform job tasks.
- Ability to safely move supplies and objects up to 75 pounds with or without a reasonable accommodation.
- Must possess excellent communication skills and ability to interact in a positive manner with the Campus Community, including students, building managers, academic personnel, and craft personnel, in a multi-cultural environment.
- Ability to track jobs to completion and prioritize requirements; able to work and support shutdowns and project schedules to minimize interference with others.
- Ability to read information from equipment manufacturers manuals, service requests, layout sketches, blueprints, appropriate state and local government codes, trade-specific manuals and practices, and to determine how the fixture or equipment should perform.
- Knowledge of relevant building codes and regulations.
- Ability to communicate clearly over the telephone and two-way radio.
- Ability to execute all job assignments in a timely manner.
- Must be able to work in confined spaces.
- Schedule is 7:00 am - 3:30 pm. Employee must be available to respond to emergencies, work on-call, weekend on-call, rotating swing shift, watch and holidays.
- Ability to learn and adhere to Facilities Services work rules and Code of Conduct.
- Employee is personally responsible for following health and safety guidelines/instructions.
EDUCATION / TRAINING
- Must have completed a four year carpenter apprenticeship program or equivalent.
SALARY & BENEFITS
For information on the comprehensive benefits package offered by the University, please visit the University of California's Compensation & Benefits website.
Under California law, the University of California, Berkeley is required to provide a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this role and should not offer a salary outside of the range posted in this job announcement. This range takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions, including but not limited to experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, analysis of internal equity, and other business and organizational needs. It is not typical for an individual to be offered a salary at or near the top of the range for a position. Salary offers are determined based on final candidate qualifications and experience.
The budgeted hourly rate that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position is $60.31. This is a non-exempt, bi-weekly paid position. This is a full-time (40 hours/week) Career position eligible for full UC benefits.
See All 16 Carpenter Jobs in California
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Find Carpenter JobsCarpenter Jobs by City in California
Where California roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Carpenter Job Market in California
A snapshot from current California openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
- Performance Contracting2

- Brookfield Properties1

- CVS Health1

- Fluor1

- Granite Construction1

Top Industries Hiring
- Construction & Real Estate8
- Education3
- Healthcare & Medical Services2
- Animal Care & Pet Services1
- Food & Beverage1
What California Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in carpenter jobs across California.
- Active California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) certification or employer-sponsored journeyman standing
- Completion of a state-approved carpentry apprenticeship program such as the California Carpenter Apprenticeship
- Demonstrated proficiency with hand tools, power tools, and blueprint or plan reading
- Physical ability to lift heavy materials, work at heights, and perform repetitive tasks on active job sites
- Valid California driver's license for travel between project sites or yard locations
- Working knowledge of California building codes and OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 safety certification
Carpenter Jobs in California: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a carpenter in California?
The most direct path in California is completing a state-approved apprenticeship through the California Carpenters Regional Council or a joint apprenticeship training committee affiliated with the United Brotherhood of Carpenters. Apprenticeships combine paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction and typically lead to journeyman status. For commercial or specialty work, employers and some project owners require journeyman standing. A high school diploma or GED is the standard education baseline before entering an apprenticeship program.
How much do carpenters make in California?
Carpenters in California earn a median of about $75,920 a year, based on May 2025 Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data, ranging from around $47,490 for the lowest 10% to over $119,950 for the top 10%. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and employer.
Which companies hire carpenters in California?
Employers hiring carpenters in California right now include Performance Contracting, Brookfield Properties, and CVS Health, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of June 2026. California's sustained residential and commercial construction activity means large regional builders and general contractors post carpenter openings year-round across multiple project sites.
Which California cities have the most carpenter jobs?
Carpinteria, Alameda, and Anaheim have the most carpenter openings in California right now. Los Angeles and the broader Southern California market drive volume through large commercial and multifamily residential projects, while the Bay Area sees consistent demand tied to tech campus construction and urban infill development, and San Diego draws steady work from military facility contracts and ongoing housing growth.
Are there remote carpenter jobs in California?
Yes, but they're rare. Carpentry is fundamentally hands-on and site-dependent, so the vast majority of roles require a physical presence on the job. About 0% of carpenter openings tied to California are remote or hybrid as of June 2026, and those positions typically cover estimating, project coordination, or shop fabrication roles rather than traditional field carpentry.
How can I get hired as a carpenter in California with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry point is applying as a carpenter's helper or construction laborer with a large California general contractor or residential builder, where you work alongside journeymen and build hands-on skills. Pre-apprenticeship programs run by the California Carpenters Regional Council and local union halls are specifically designed for candidates with no prior trade experience and can feed directly into a paid apprenticeship. Obtaining an OSHA 10 card before applying gives candidates a measurable edge with most California commercial employers.
Where can I find and apply to carpenter jobs in California?
You can find and apply to carpenter jobs in California on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings from employers hiring across the state right now. Find roles that match your experience level and location, then apply directly to the employers posting them.
See All 16 Carpenter Jobs in California
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