What does a Joiner do?
As a joiner, you will be responsible for designing, creating and installing structures, furniture, and fittings using wood.
Responsibilities
* Learning the uses of different types of wood and choosing the right material for the job
* Understanding technical drawings and how your work will fit within the building
* Conducting site surveys
* Creating design drawings, alongside sketches of the work needed and the specifications
* Measuring and marking wood according to technical designs
* Cutting wood on machines or by hand
* Working with suppliers and sub‑contractors
* Producing cutting lists
* Estimating the materials needed for a job
* Drafting job briefs
* Using a range of equipment from traditional tools to state‑of‑the‑art computerised cutting equipment and hi‑tech drawing and design software
* Managing production schedules and budgets
* Conducting quality checks
* Producing progress reports for senior managers
How to Become a Joiner
There are several routes to becoming a joiner. You could complete a college course, an apprenticeship, on‑the‑job training, or apply to an employer directly if you have some experience. Although many employers are more interested in people who are enthusiastic, willing to learn and can follow instructions, you may need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card to work on a construction site.
Training and Apprenticeship
* College or training provider offers courses to help you train as a joiner.
* Apprenticeship options: intermediate or advanced apprenticeship in carpentry and joinery, site carpenter or architectural joiner, wood product manufacturing operative.
* Apprenticeships are open to anyone over the age of 16 and require a minimum of 30 hours per week. Work is split between on‑the‑job experience and college or training provider.
Work Experience
Work experience is essential to gaining employment within the construction industry and can be gained at school, or by working weekends and holidays with a company or relative who works as a joiner.
* Find out more about work experience.
Skills
* Knowledge of building and construction.
* Good attention to detail.
* Knowledge of maths.
* Ability to work well with others.
* Patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations.
* Ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools.
* Ability to work on your own.
* Sensitivity and understanding.
* Ability to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand‑held device.
Qualifications
* Level 2 NVQ in Wood Operations (Construction)
* Level 2 Apprenticeship in Carpentry and Joinery
* Level 2 Heritage Carpenter and Joiner Apprenticeship
* Level 3 Apprenticeship in Advanced Carpentry and Joinery
* SVQ at SCQF Level 6 in Wood Occupations
* Modern Apprenticeship in Carpentry and Joinery at SCQF Level 6
* Level 2 NVQ in Construction – Site Carpentry
* Level 3 Apprenticeship in Carpentry and Joinery Wood Occupations
Potential Earnings
* Newly trained joiners can start at £28,000.
* Trained joiners with experience can earn up to £54,000.
Seniority level
* Not Applicable
Employment type
* Part‑time
Job function
* Management and Manufacturing
Industries
* Construction
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