Day in the life
A Day in the Life of a Cabinetmaker
What cabinetmakers actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
What is a typical day like for a cabinetmaker?
Review drawings. From there, the day usually includes read shop drawings, cut parts, and machine joinery. Full time.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for a cabinetmaker working full time.
- Review drawings.
- Cut panels on the CNC.
- Edgeband parts.
- Assemble boxes.
- Build drawer boxes.
- Install hinges.
- Prep for finishing.
Where cabinetmakers work
Cabinetmakers work in shops and at install sites.
Hours and schedule
Full time.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Read shop drawings
- Cut parts
- Machine joinery
- Assemble cabinets
- Build doors and drawers
- Install hardware
- Install cabinets
Tools you’ll use every day
- Table saws
- CNC routers
- Edgebanders
- Jointers
- Clamps
- Hinge jigs
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Craft and creativity
- Can be self-employed
- CNC skills
- Lasting work
What’s hard
- Dust and noise
- Slight decline
- Tight deadlines
- Machine hazards
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I love woodworking
- I’m precise
- I like design
- I like machines
- I might open a shop
- I don’t need a degree
Not sure? Take the free Cabinetmaker fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Use blade guards
- Use push sticks
- Wear eye and ear protection
- Collect dust