Carpenter

Carpenter qualifications to look for

Carpenters wear many hats and can specialize in specific areas like cabinetry, or cover a wide scope of skills within the construction industry. 

Carpentry tasks may include examining blueprints and drawings, determining and estimating project materials and requirements, constructing and repairing building structures and frameworks, and demolishing metal and wooden structures and fixtures. 

Carpenters also work in many different environments, building homes and corporate structures, or they may also work on large structures such as bridges, dams and civil engineering projects.

A high school diploma or equivalent is often preferred,  plus completion of an apprenticeship.

📌Don’t forget: Check local legislation as licensure requirements vary per location. 

Keep an eye out for candidates who have:

• Solid communication skills 
• A customer service mindset
• A strong team-player mentality
• Skills specific to your project needs 
• The ability to travel and be out in the field 
  

Top tip: Hire candidates willing to grow by making sure their personal career goals align with your company's mission.

Problem-solving interview questions

• What information do you gather from a blueprint? How is it used on the job? 
• What is your process to obtain accurate measurements? 
• What safety precautions would you take when operating a forklift?
• If you spot a coworker not taking safety seriously, how do you handle it?
• Do you have experience using a welding machine? If so, explain. 
• What are your thoughts on safety gear, even when it hinders your ability to move well?
• Have you installed a drywall? If so, what’s the process? 
• What are the considerations for building a cantilever deck?
• What steps do you take to ensure a deck will last as long as possible?
  

Role-specific interview questions

• What do you find rewarding about your work?
• How long have you been a carpenter? What brought you to the field? 
• What is your experience as a residential/commercial/industrial carpenter?
• Do you test tools before use? What is your process? 
• Explain NTS on a blueprint.
• Are you first-aid/CPR certified? If not, are you willing to get certified? 
• What do you think makes a good carpenter? How do you keep your skills polished? 
  

Behavioral interview questions

• How do you handle instructions you don’t agree with?
• Tell me about a time you had to deal with a safety issue in your job. What was the problem and how did you deal with it? 
• Have you mentored an apprentice before? What did you do to help them improve their skills? 
• Have you ever had a problem completing a project? How did you communicate with your supervisor?