Description
Fabricate, assemble, finish, and install custom cabinets and built-in casework. Read plans, cut and shape lumber, plywood, and laminates, and operate hand tools and woodworking machines to produce precise parts, fit hardware, and meet specifications.
- • Edge-band panels and apply veneers or laminates (HPL) to substrates.
- • Machine dados, rabbets, mortises, and tenons; line-bore shelf and hinge holes.
- • Fit and assemble components using glue, dowels, screws, nails, biscuits, or clamps.
- • Reinforce and square assemblies, ensuring plumb, level, and true joinery.
- • Verify dimensions, squareness, and fit of doors, drawers, and frames.
- • Match wood species, grain, color, and veneers for visible surfaces.
- • Sand, trim, and scrape surfaces and joints in preparation for finishing.
- • Build and assemble cabinet boxes, doors, drawers, face frames, and casework.
- • Read blueprints, shop drawings, and cut lists to plan layouts and methods.
- • Measure, mark, and cut parts to size to meet specifications and tolerances.
- • Set up and operate saws, jointers, planers, routers, shapers, mortisers, and sanders.
- • Operate or program CNC routers for cabinet components as needed.
- • Install cabinet hardware, including hinges, drawer slides, pulls, catches, and locks.
- • Apply stains, sealers, and protective finishes by spray, brush, or wipe.
- • Fabricate and install moldings, toe kicks, fillers, and end panels.
- • Install and scribe cabinets and built-ins at job sites for a tight fit.
- • Repair, modify, or refinish existing cabinetry and casework.
- • Estimate materials, hardware, and labor for cabinet projects.
- • Maintain tools, jigs, and machines; perform basic adjustments and troubleshooting.
- • Discuss requirements and specifications with clients or project managers.
Related specializations
Interview options
Interview options
Interviewee gender
Interviewee accent
Interview time
Source
Tasks & skills:
O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
Learn more
Sources & Standards:
This site includes information from O*NET by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license. Career Clutch has modified some of this information for student readability. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
Last reviewed: Jan 2026
