Overview
Cabinetmakers use a variety of woods and laminates to construct and repair wooden cabinets, furniture, fixtures and related products. They are employed by furniture manufacturing or repair companies, construction companies and cabinetmaking contractors, or they may be self-employed. Apprentices are also included in this unit group.
This group performs some or all of the following duties:
Study plans, specifications or drawings of articles to be made, or prepare specifications
Mark outlines or dimensions of parts on wood
Operate woodworking machines, such as power saws, jointers, mortisers and shapers, and use hand tools to cut, shape and form parts and components
Trim joints and fit parts and subassemblies together to form complete unit using glue and clamps and reinforce joints using nails, screws or other fasteners
Sand wooden surfaces and apply veneer, stain or polish to finished products
Repair or restyle wooden furniture, fixtures and related products
May estimate amount, type and cost of materials required.
Employment prospects
Annual salary
$41,608
$51,097
$66,739
Job openings
Use this interactive map to explore job openings in different regions across B.C.
British Columbia
365expected job openings (5-year forecast)
Education and training
Employment requirements
Completion of secondary school is usually required.
Completion of a four-year apprenticeship program or A combination of over four years of work experience in the trade and some high school or college courses in cabinetmaking is usually required to be eligible for trade certification.
Trade certification is available, but voluntary, in all provinces and territories.
Additional information
The Red Seal endorsement allows for interprovincial mobility.
Progression to supervisory positions is possible with experience.
Certification requirements
Optional: The following certifications are optional to practice as Cabinetmakers in B.C.
- Skilled Trades Certification - Cabinetmakers
- Cabinetmaker Red Seal Certification
Skilled Trades Certification - Cabinetmakers
Confirm with the certifying body that your intended program qualifies you for this certification. To work as a cabinetmaker in B.C., you may need a SkilledTradesBC certification demonstrating that you have completed the necessary technical training and work experience part of your apprenticeship program.
Visit websiteCabinetmaker Red Seal Certification
Confirm with the certifying body that your intended program qualifies you for this certification. This career is eligible for Red Seal endorsement. When all levels of your trades training are complete, you can write an Interprovincial Red Seal exam. A successful result demonstrates you have met the national standard for your trade in Canada will allow you to practice your trade outside of B.C. in provinces and territories covered by the Red Seal certification.
Visit websitePost-secondary programs in B.C.
Explore programs related to this career offered at post-secondary institutions in B.C.