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What does a Cabinet Maker do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

A cabinet maker is a skilled woodworker who designs and builds cabinets and other wooden fixtures. Cabinet makers use a variety of tools and techniques to create custom or mass-produced products. They may work in a workshop, factory, or retail store.

Cabinet Maker job duties include:

  • Read and interpret blueprints, drawings, and sketches to determine specifications and calculate requirements
  • Measure, mark, and scribe dimensions and reference lines on materials or workpieces
  • Select and organize lumber, wood veneer, plywood, and laminate according to grain direction and size
  • Cut, plane, saw, carve, sand, shape, rout, or glue pieces to form parts or subassemblies
  • Join parts or subassemblies together to form complete units using clamps, dowels, screws, nails, or glue
  • Finish surfaces of parts or units using a variety of hand tools and power tools
  • Examine finished products for smoothness of surface and fit of joints
  • Make templates to ensure consistent sizing
  • Install hardware such as hinges, knobs, pulls, and drawer slides

Cabinet Maker Job Requirements

Cabinet Makers typically have a high school diploma or equivalent. Some may have completed a formal apprenticeship program. Many cabinet makers learn their trade through on-the-job training. Some states require Cabinet Makers to be licensed. Most employers prefer candidates with at least 2 years of experience working in the field.

Cabinet Maker Skills

  • Cabinetmaking
  • Woodworking
  • Joinery
  • Furniture making
  • Carpentry
  • Woodworking machinery operation
  • Power tool operation
  • Hand tool skills
  • Design skills
  • Math skills
  • Assembly

Related: Top Cabinet Maker Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Cabinet Maker

Cabinet making is a skilled trade that has been around for centuries. In order to become a cabinet maker, one must first complete an apprenticeship. Apprenticeships typically last 3-4 years and include on-the-job training as well as classroom instruction. After completing an apprenticeship, many cabinet makers choose to pursue certification through the Cabinet Makers Association.

The first step to becoming a cabinet maker is to find an apprenticeship. There are many ways to do this, but the best way is to contact your local chapter of the Cabinet Makers Association. They will be able to put you in touch with cabinet shops in your area that are looking for apprentices.

Once you have found an apprenticeship, the next step is to complete the program. During your apprenticeship, you will learn all the skills necessary to be a successful cabinet maker. This includes learning how to use various tools, how to read blueprints, and how to construct cabinets. You will also learn about different types of wood and how to finish them.

After you have completed your apprenticeship, you may choose to pursue certification through the Cabinet Makers Association. This process includes passing an exam and completing a portfolio. Once you are certified, you will have the skills and knowledge necessary to start your own cabinet making business or work for an existing shop.

Related: Cabinet Maker Resume Example

Related: Cabinet Maker Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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