Repair carpenter

What does a repair carpenter do? – Tasks and work environment

A repair carpenter primarily works on performing repairs, maintenance, and improvements on existing buildings and interiors. Typical tasks include replacing damaged wood details, repairing doors, windows, and floors, as well as customizing furniture or interiors according to customer needs. The work is often carried out on-site at private homes, housing cooperatives, or companies and can involve both urgent repairs and planned maintenance. The work environment varies depending on the assignment, but it is common to work both indoors and outdoors, sometimes under time pressure and with a wide variety of tasks.

Salary development over time

Salaries for repair carpenters have shown some variation over recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 30,400 SEK, which increased to 33 000 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary has slightly decreased to 32 300 SEK, representing a decrease of approximately 2.1 % compared to the previous year. This trend may be influenced by several factors, including an increased supply of labor within the profession and a somewhat reduced demand nationally, confirmed by the Employment Service's forecast of a surplus. Overall, the salary level has strengthened in the long term, but economic fluctuations and shifts in the construction sector often impact the development for repair carpenters.

Repair carpenter salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 32 300 SEK/month
• Lowest/Highest salary: Data not available
• Hourly wage: 194 SEK
• Gender differences: Only data for men (32 300 SEK), data for women is missing
• Regional differences: No specific data available

Education and qualifications

To work as a repair carpenter, a high school vocational education in construction and civil engineering, with a focus on woodwork or fine carpentry, is usually required. Practical experience is highly valued, and many employers prefer candidates who have completed an apprenticeship or internship. Further training, certificates, and courses in specialized areas can increase employability, especially in modern technology or environmentally adapted methods.

• High school education: Construction and civil engineering program, specializing in woodwork (3 years)
• Apprenticeship period: Usually 1–2 years after high school
• Professional certificates: Possible via trade tests or industry exams
• Further education: Courses in specialized carpentry, environmental technology, or repair techniques
• Prerequisites: Good physical condition, meticulousness, and problem-solving skills

Common benefits and allowances

Repair carpenters are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, work clothing, tool allowances, and sometimes company cars for larger employers. Other common allowances include overtime pay, per diems for work at other locations, and pension contributions regulated by collective agreements. The possibility of flexible working hours may also exist depending on the workplace.

Competition and challenges

The competition within the profession of repair carpenters is currently considered relatively high, with a national surplus of labor according to the Employment Service's forecasts. This means there are more applicants than available positions, which requires broad competence and specialization to stand out. Digitalization and new materials can also pose challenges, making continuous skills development important to remain attractive in the job market. Physical strain and variation in work environments are other factors that can affect daily work. Despite this, opportunities still exist for those who are flexible and willing to develop within the profession.

Tips for those who want to become repair carpenters

To succeed as a repair carpenter, it is good to combine meticulousness with a high degree of problem-solving skills. Developing good communication skills is valuable, as the profession often involves customer contact and collaboration with other trades. A practical attitude and technical interest facilitate quickly learning different repair techniques and materials. Flexibility is an important trait, especially when work requires quick adjustments or creative solutions on-site. It is recommended to seek internships early to build experience and networks within the industry. Staying updated on new materials and tools is also wise to stay ahead. Finally, perseverance and initiative are rewarded, as employers often appreciate employees who take responsibility for both quality and efficiency.

Key facts about repair carpenters

• Education level: High school diploma (Construction and civil engineering program)
• Work environment: Variation between indoors and outdoors, often customer-facing
• Occupational group: Finishing, interior, and furniture carpenters
• Demand: Limited opportunities for work, surplus of labor nationwide
• Job vacancies: Approximately 341 advertised positions within the profession

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a repair carpenter can advance to more specialized roles such as supervisor, project manager, or self-employed within construction services. Some choose to pursue further education in areas like fine carpentry, historic building preservation, or occupational health and safety. According to the Employment Service's national forecast for finish carpenters, interior carpenters, and furniture carpenters, job opportunities are small, and the recruitment situation is characterized by a surplus. In five years, demand is expected to remain unchanged, meaning competition for positions will stay high. However, those willing to develop their skills and specialize in niche areas may find the labor market more favorable.

Frequently asked questions about repair carpenters

• What does a repair carpenter earn?
  - A repair carpenter has an average monthly salary of 32 300 SEK according to current statistics.
• What education is required to become a repair carpenter?
  - Typically, a high school diploma from the construction and civil engineering program with apprenticeship time is required.
• What is the job market like for repair carpenters?
  - The job market is characterized by a surplus of labor and limited opportunities for employment nationwide.
• What are the tasks of a repair carpenter?
  - Typical tasks include repairing wood details, maintaining buildings, and customizing interiors.
• Are there regional salary differences for repair carpenters?
  - Specific regional differences are not available, but variations can occur depending on demand.
• What personal qualities are important for the profession?
  - Meticulousness, problem-solving skills, flexibility, and good communication are key qualities.
• What benefits are common in the profession?
  - Wellness allowances, work clothing, tool allowances, and sometimes company cars are common benefits.