Cabinet Maker

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Craft a career that brings form and function together.

As a cabinet maker, you’ll be the architect of storage solutions and the artist behind bespoke furniture. Your skilled hands will transform raw wood into masterpieces of practicality and beauty, shaping the very essence of homes and offices.

Cabinet makers play a crucial role in the manufacturing, construction and interior design industries, specialising in the creation of custom cabinetry, furniture, and wooden fixtures. Their work enhances the functionality and aesthetics of residential, commercial, and industrial spaces, contributing significantly to the overall quality and value of buildings.

These skilled craftspeople combine traditional woodworking techniques with modern technology to design, construct, and install a wide range of products. From kitchen cabinets and built-in wardrobes to custom office furniture and retail displays, cabinet makers must possess a deep understanding of different wood types, joinery techniques, and finishing methods.

A typical day for a cabinet maker might involve interpreting design specifications, selecting appropriate materials, cutting and shaping wood components, assembling pieces, and applying finishes. The role requires precision, creativity, and problem-solving skills to meet client expectations and overcome challenges in design and installation.

Your role may include duties as follows:

  1. Create detailed designs and mock-ups using CAD software, translating client requirements into viable production plans.
  2. Choose and prepare appropriate timber and materials, ensuring quality and suitability for each project.
  3. Use tools and techniques to cut, shape, and assemble cabinet components with precision.
  4. Apply finishes, including sanding, staining, and weatherproofing, to enhance both aesthetics and durability.
  5. Fit and install completed cabinetry on-site, ensuring perfect integration with existing spaces.

Becoming a cabinet maker typically involves a combination of formal training and practical experience. Here’s a general pathway to enter this skilled profession:

  1. Complete Year 10 or equivalent, with a focus on mathematics, design, and technical subjects
  2. Consider undertaking a qualification like Certificate II in Furniture Making Pathways (MSF20522) to gain foundations level skills
  3. Research potential employers in your area via a search engine, social media or job site. Even if there are no jobs advertised with the employer you’re interested in, it can be a good idea to send a cover letter with your resume expressing your interest.
  4. Gain hands-on experience through an apprenticeship with an established cabinet maker or furniture company
  5. Consider specialising in specific areas such as kitchen design or custom furniture making
  6. Obtain any necessary licenses or certifications required in your state or territory
Also Known As:
  • Cabinetry Craftsman
  • Custom Furniture Maker
  • Woodworking Specialist
  • Joiner
  • Bespoke Furniture Designer
A Quick Look
Key Skills:

Skills which may benefit anyone considering a job as a cabinet maker include:

  • Design interpretation
  • Finishing techniques
  • Precision
  • Technical drawing and interpretation
  • Woodworking expertise
Values & Attributes:

Values and attributes of anyone considering a job as a cabinet maker include:

  • Attention to detail
  • Creativity
  • Patience
  • Quality-focused
  • Adaptable
  • Conventional – “Organiser”
Recommended School Subjects:
  • Building and Construction Skills
  • Engineering Skills
  • Industrial Graphics Skills
Core School Subjects:
  • General Mathematics
  • Essential English
  • Furnishing Skills
Related Industries

Salary Expectations

The expected salary for a Cabinet Maker can vary across different areas of manufacturing and may vary as you become more experienced.

Low
$60,000
Median
$70,000
High
$85,000

An apprenticeship with a manufacturer is the best pathway to gain employment as a cabinet maker. You can undertake the following certificate as an apprenticeship:

  • Certificate II in Cabinet Making and Timber Technology (MSF20322)
  • Certificate III in Cabinet Making and Timber Technology (MSF30322)

An apprenticeship is open to anyone aged 13 and older. As an apprentice you will combine work with formal training, allowing you to gain practical skills and knowledge in a specific trade while earning a salary.

Duration: Apprenticeships typically last between 3 to 4 years for full-time participants. Part-time apprenticeships may take longer, depending on the individual’s work schedule and training progress.

Work and study combination: As an apprentice you will work either full-time or part-time while receiving formal training from a Registered Training Organisation (RTO). School-based apprenticeships may be available.

Eligibility: Generally, apprenticeships do not require any formal qualifications to enter, making them accessible to a wide range of individuals, including if you are a school leaver or someone looking to change careers. There are minimum age requirements and there may be other eligibility criteria.

Completion: On completion you will receive a nationally recognised trade qualification, showcasing your skill and experience.

SKILLS, QUALIFICATIONS, ACCREDITATIONS AND LICENCES

Cabinet makers may choose to pursue other training or certifications, licences and tickets. Qualifications and skills may be required to progress to supervisor or team leader positions.

Advanced qualifications for this role include:

  • Certificate IV in Furniture Design and Manufacturing (MSF40222)
  • Certificate IV in Kitchen and Bathroom Design (MSF40318)

University education is not typically required for cabinet makers, as the profession is primarily skills-based and learned through vocational training and on-the-job experience. However, for those looking to advance into design-focused roles or management positions, relevant degree programs might include:

  • Bachelor of Design (Industrial Design)
  • Bachelor of Applied Science (Architectural Science)

While these degrees are not necessary for most cabinet making positions, they can provide valuable knowledge in advanced design principles, project management, and business operations. This broader understanding can be beneficial for those aiming to take on senior roles in large manufacturing firms, start their own custom furniture businesses, or transition into related fields such as interior design or product development.

Career progression

In this role, you may have the opportunity to progress to other positions. Career progression opportunities include:

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