Carpenter / Joiner jobs in the United Kingdom
Fit-out and finishing with UK site standards: accurate setting-out, tidy installs, safe delivery.
CV required: candidates without a CV are not considered.
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Role snapshot (what clients typically need)
- Work types
- 1st fix, 2nd fix, fit-out, finishing, bench/workshop joinery (project dependent)
- Sites
- Residential, commercial, refurb, retail fit-outs; safety rules are non-negotiable
- Contract modes
- PAYE, CIS subcontracting, or agency assignments (depends on employer)
- Quality focus
- Setting out, clean installs, snagging discipline, protection of finished surfaces
A realistic “candidate portrait”
- Has 2–5+ years of site experience and can work from drawings without constant supervision.
- Shows up site-ready: PPE, basic hand tools, tidy work habits, respects site rules.
- Can explain past scope clearly (1st fix/2nd fix/fit-out) and provide references.
- Understands that UK sites measure quality: alignment, gaps, fixings, finish, protection.
How MaViAl handles applications
- You submit a CV (English). No CV = no screening.
- We validate your scope. Tools, tasks, photos (optional), certificates, references.
- We match to demand. Client needs vary by week and region.
- You get clear next steps. Interview, site rules, start logistics (if applicable).
Next step: Submit your CV via the CV page. We can then screen your profile against current UK demand and client requirements.
Gross pay in the UK (guide) — shown as brutto
UK carpentry rates move with region, specialization, and contract model. The bands below are a practical guide for planning; exact offers depend on the employer and site.
| Contract model | Typical gross structure | What to expect on site |
|---|---|---|
| PAYE (employed) | Usually hourly gross pay (often within the £17–£26/h band for skilled carpentry) | Payslips, employer payroll; overtime rules vary; pension/holiday entitlement depends on terms |
| CIS (subcontractor) | Gross day/hour rates may look higher, but deductions/administration apply; tools are often “your responsibility” | More independence expected; consistent output; strong attention to quality & pace |
| Agency / project hires | Shorter assignments; pay depends on urgency and specialization (fit-out, fire doors, shopfitting) | Fast onboarding; you must adapt quickly to local site rules and reporting |
Minimum wage benchmark (context)
The UK National Living Wage for age 21+ is updated annually (April). Skilled trade roles are typically above this benchmark, but it is a useful floor reference for entry-level checks.
Visa/sponsorship salary reality (context)
If a role is sponsored, salary must meet Skilled Worker rules (standard salary or going rate, whichever is higher). Some carpentry/joinery roles fall under SOC 5316 on the Immigration Salary List.
How to maximize your offer
Show a clean scope (1st fix/2nd fix/fit-out), provide references, show tools readiness, and document completed work (photos + brief captions).
A typical workday (UK site rhythm)
- Start: safety brief / toolbox talk, confirm drawings and the day’s targets.
- Setting-out: measure twice, mark clearly, protect finished surfaces from damage.
- Install: frames, studs, linings, doors, skirting, architraves, kitchens (scope dependent).
- Quality control: levels, reveals, fixings, gaps; snag early to avoid rework.
- Close-out: tidy area, store materials, report progress and constraints to supervisor.
Clients value predictable quality: accuracy, finish, and safe work methods.
Requirements (detailed)
- CV in English (mandatory). Include scope, tools, and references.
- Trade competence: reading drawings, setting out, clean installs, snagging discipline.
- Site access: many projects request CSCS (level/card depends on qualification).
- Safety: PPE, risk awareness, reporting hazards immediately.
- Tools readiness: core hand tools; some sites require specific power tools (project rules).
- Quality mindset: protect finished work, keep work area tidy, follow supervisor standards.
- Work eligibility: you must have the right to work in the UK, or apply for roles where sponsorship is explicitly available.
UK work conditions (practical points)
- Hours: commonly ~40 hours/week; overtime depends on site and deadlines.
- Holiday: statutory paid holiday exists for workers; exact handling depends on contract type.
- 48-hour rule: the weekly maximum is averaged; opt-out is possible (voluntary, written).
- CIS vs PAYE: different deductions/administration; keep records and understand pay structure.
- Pay clarity: always confirm whether the rate is hourly/day, and whether it is PAYE or CIS.
This page provides role guidance. Final terms depend on employer, site policy and contract.
Practical tip: A “UK-ready” CV wins. Add 6–10 bullet points of tasks you can do independently (e.g., doors/linings, skirting/architraves, stud walls, kitchen fit, setting out).
Related roles in Construction & Trades
- General Labourer (Construction) (Entry, Low sponsorship)
- Dryliner / Drywall Installer (Mid, Medium sponsorship)
- Formwork Carpenter (Mid, Medium sponsorship)
- Steel Fixer (Rebar) (Mid, Medium sponsorship)
- Bricklayer (Mid, Medium sponsorship)
- Concrete Finisher (Mid, Medium sponsorship)
- Scaffolder (Mid, Medium sponsorship)
- Roofer (Mid, Medium sponsorship)
FAQ (Carpenter / Joiner — UK)
What gross pay is realistic for carpenters/joiners in the UK?
A practical planning band for skilled carpentry is often around £17–£26/hour gross, depending on region, specialization (fit-out, 1st fix/2nd fix, bench joinery), and contract type (PAYE vs CIS). Specialist roles can be higher.
Do I need a CSCS card?
Many UK sites request CSCS as proof of relevant training/qualifications. The “right” card level depends on your qualification and role level. Always confirm site entry requirements before travelling.
Can I apply without UK experience?
Yes, but your CV must prove site-readiness: drawings, setting out, finish quality, and safe work habits. Strong references and photos help.
Can this role be sponsored for a visa?
Sponsorship depends on an employer with a sponsor licence and the role meeting Skilled Worker rules (including salary thresholds and occupation code conditions). It is not guaranteed for every project.
What tools should I bring?
Bring core hand tools and be ready to confirm your tool list per site. Many employers expect trade basics as standard; some projects provide specific equipment.
What English level is required?
You need functional site English: follow safety briefings, read signs, understand task instructions, and report hazards/issues clearly.