Carpenter resume example
This guide gives a practical carpenter resume template with examples and formatting tips you can adapt.
You will learn what to include in each section, how to write concise accomplishment statements, and which format works best for on-site and shop roles.
View and download this professional resume template
Loading resume example...
💡 Pro tip: Use this template as a starting point. Customize it with your own experience, skills, and achievements.
What a strong carpenter resume example includes
A clear header, a short professional summary, a skills list, work history with accomplishments, education and relevant certifications.
Each part should show the tools you use, the types of projects you build, and the safety or quality standards you follow.
Organize information so a hiring manager or foreman can scan your resume in 10 to 20 seconds.
Use consistent formatting and put the most relevant work or certifications near the top of the page.
carpenter resume example: Header and professional summary
Your header should include your name, city and state, phone number, and email.
If you work seasonally or travel, add a line for availability or ability to travel, and a link to a portfolio or photos of finished work when possible.
Write a professional summary of two to three sentences that highlights experience type, trade specialties, and what you bring to a crew or project.
Use active language and focus on outcomes, for example woodworking specialties, finish carpentry, framing, or cabinet installation.
carpenter resume example: Sample header and summary
Sample header: Jane Doe, Portland OR; (555) 555-5555; jane@email.
com; portfolio link.
This line is followed by a short summary that sets the tone for the resume.
Sample summary: Finish carpenter with eight years of commercial and residential experience focused on trim, cabinet installation, and custom millwork.
Reliable on-site team member with strong blueprint reading skills and a focus on meeting specs and schedules.
Experience section: how to write entries
List jobs in reverse chronological order and include job title, employer, city, and employment dates.
For each role write two to three accomplishment statements that describe what you did, the tools or materials used, and the outcome for the project or client.
Start statements with a past-tense action verb and avoid vague phrases about duties.
Prefer statements that show scope of work, e.
g.
, types of builds, team size, or kinds of materials, so a hiring manager understands your fit for their projects.
carpenter resume example: Experience entry samples
Experience sample 1: Lead Carpenter, Maple Construction, Portland OR, 2019 to Present.
Managed finish carpentry on multi-unit residential projects, installed custom trim and cabinetry, coordinated with subcontractors to keep schedules aligned and ensure work met specifications.
Experience sample 2: Carpenter, Oak Renovations, Portland OR, 2015 to 2019.
Performed framing, sheathing, and exterior trim on single-family homes, read blueprints and material lists to prepare job sites, and maintained tools and equipment for safe daily operations.
Skills, certifications, and tools
Include a concise skills list that mixes technical skills and on-site capabilities, such as blueprint reading, finish carpentry, framing, cabinet installation, and layout.
Add safety and credential items like OSHA 10 or NCCER credentials, plus any state licenses that apply to your trade.
List the tools and software you use if relevant, for example CNC or cabinet design software, hand and power tools, and layout instruments.
Keep the skills section scannable and avoid long sentences; use short phrases separated by commas.
Formatting tips for a clear carpenter resume example
Use a single font and a readable size between 10 and 12 points, and keep margins consistent.
Use bold for section headings and job titles only, and avoid graphics that ATS systems cannot read when you apply online.
Keep the resume to one page if you have under 10 years of relevant experience, and two pages only if the extra work history is directly relevant.
Save and submit your resume as a PDF unless the employer requests another format.
How to write accomplishment statements without numbers
If you do not have measurable numbers, focus on scope and quality details instead, such as the types of materials, the complexity of assemblies, or the standard you met.
Describe how you improved workflow, reduced rework, or supported safety practices to show impact without inventing data.
Example without numbers: Improved finishing quality on multi-unit builds by standardizing cut lists and coordinating dry-ins with the painting crew.
Example showing team role: Trained two apprentices in layout and trim techniques to maintain consistent workmanship across projects.
Additional resume sections you can include
Consider adding a projects or portfolio section if you do custom work or have photos that show your craftsmanship.
You can also add volunteer builds, trade association membership, or continuing education classes in carpentry and construction safety.
Only include hobbies if they are relevant to the job, such as woodworking competitions or community build days.
Keep every item on the resume relevant to the role you want to secure.
Final checklist before you submit your carpenter resume example
Proofread for spelling and consistency and have someone who understands carpentry read your resume for clarity.
Confirm your contact information and portfolio links work before you upload the file.
Tailor the resume for each job by matching your skills and experience to the posting, and remove older or irrelevant roles that do not support the application.
This makes it easier for the hiring manager to see your fit.
Best Practices
Use a clear header and a two to three sentence professional summary that highlights your specialties and availability.
List jobs in reverse chronological order and include two or three concise accomplishment statements per role that show the scope and outcome of your work.
Include trade certifications and safety training near the top if they are required or preferred for the job.
Keep formatting simple, avoid images, and submit a PDF unless another format is requested.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Final Thoughts
A strong carpenter resume example focuses on clear, scannable sections, work entries that show your craftsmanship, and relevant certifications.
You can adapt the sample lines and formatting above to create a one-page resume that presents your skills and readiness for on-site or shop roles.
Take time to tailor each application, and pair your resume with a short message that highlights the top two reasons you fit the job.