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Carpenter vs journeyman

The differences between carpenters and journeymen can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. While it typically takes 6-12 months to become a carpenter, becoming a journeyman takes usually requires 2-4 years. Additionally, a journeyman has an average salary of $57,682, which is higher than the $41,748 average annual salary of a carpenter.

The top three skills for a carpenter include hand tools, ladders and install windows. The most important skills for a journeyman are hand tools, work ethic, and HVAC.

Carpenter vs journeyman overview

CarpenterJourneyman
Yearly salary$41,748$57,682
Hourly rate$20.07$27.73
Growth rate2%2%
Number of jobs5,86213,953
Job satisfaction4.86-
Most common degreeHigh School Diploma, 42%Associate Degree, 31%
Average age4242
Years of experience124

What does a carpenter do?

A carpenter is a skilled worker responsible for different areas of construction. Carpenters perform fabrication from raw materials. They use tools to create a successful finished product on their client's request. Carpenters must be able to multi-task, resolve any possible complications, strictly follow safety standards, and ensure that the project adheres to protocols without compromising quality and accuracy of work. Since carpentry is physical labor, carpenters are expected to be physically fit to accomplish various maintenance and production tasks.

What does a journeyman do?

A journeyman is an experienced worker whose role will vary on the line of industry where one is involved. They work without supervision from a master craftsman. Most of the responsibilities will revolve around performing manual work such as carpentry, plumbing, electrical and mechanical tasks, and other forms of trade. Furthermore, a journeyman can choose whether to work independently or to be part of a business entity. They can also recruit and train an apprentice, or even pursue to become a master in their preferred field.

Carpenter vs journeyman salary

Carpenters and journeymen have different pay scales, as shown below.

CarpenterJourneyman
Average salary$41,748$57,682
Salary rangeBetween $31,000 And $54,000Between $39,000 And $83,000
Highest paying CityNew York, NYSan Francisco, CA
Highest paying stateNew JerseyWashington
Best paying companyArgonne National LaboratoryCVR Energy
Best paying industryConstructionConstruction

Differences between carpenter and journeyman education

There are a few differences between a carpenter and a journeyman in terms of educational background:

CarpenterJourneyman
Most common degreeHigh School Diploma, 42%Associate Degree, 31%
Most common majorBusinessBusiness
Most common college--

Carpenter vs journeyman demographics

Here are the differences between carpenters' and journeymen' demographics:

CarpenterJourneyman
Average age4242
Gender ratioMale, 95.7% Female, 4.3%Male, 87.2% Female, 12.8%
Race ratioBlack or African American, 7.1% Unknown, 4.7% Hispanic or Latino, 23.3% Asian, 1.6% White, 62.2% American Indian and Alaska Native, 1.1%Black or African American, 7.3% Unknown, 4.7% Hispanic or Latino, 23.2% Asian, 1.6% White, 62.0% American Indian and Alaska Native, 1.1%
LGBT Percentage2%2%

Differences between carpenter and journeyman duties and responsibilities

Carpenter example responsibilities.

  • Remodel homes, roofing, electric, plumbing, framework, Sheetrock, finishing work.
  • Hoist tar and roofing materials to roofs, using ropes and pulleys, or carry materials up ladders.
  • Follow establish safety rules and regulations as specified by OSHA and maintain a safe and clean work environment.
  • Perform new construction, concrete foundations, layout framing, formwork, roofing, site preparation through fine finish.
  • Perform work including, fiberglass framing, concrete form, scaffolding, erecting metal stud walls, drywall and general carpentry
  • General labor practices, carpentry, masonry, cement pouring, hardwood floors, cleanup, and other duties as assigned.
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Journeyman example responsibilities.

  • Manage 22 active duty hydraulic technicians in support of 32 of USAF's 59 KC-10A aircraft.
  • Serve as the hoisting specialist for critical glass lifts in order to achieve proper install while mitigating any risk for loss.
  • Implement and manage training program for incoming and/or replacement facility managers enhancing overall knowledge of CE maintenance and repair operations.
  • Install EMT to rigid including PVC.
  • Perform arc welding of steel clips for curtain wall installation.
  • Repair the electrical systems of various engineering equipment utilizing soldering irons, resistors, relays, switches, and hand tools.
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Carpenter vs journeyman skills

Common carpenter skills
  • Hand Tools, 17%
  • Ladders, 8%
  • Install Windows, 7%
  • Roofing, 7%
  • Safety Rules, 6%
  • Scaffolding, 6%
Common journeyman skills
  • Hand Tools, 21%
  • Work Ethic, 13%
  • HVAC, 12%
  • Safety Procedures, 6%
  • Plumbing, 5%
  • OSHA, 5%

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