Bench Joiner

What does a bench joiner do?

As a bench joiner, you’ll cut timber into required shapes and lengths. You’ll be based inside a workshop and could use wood to assemble structures that are transported onsite to be installed in new buildings, such as window frames or beams. 

Day-to-day responsibilities of a bench joiner may include: 

• Working to production schedules  
• Interpreting technical plans and diagrams  
• Estimating the materials needed for a job and producing cutting lists  
• Selecting wood that’s suitable for a particular job 
• Measuring timber and marking it up ahead of cutting 
• Cutting timber to required dimensions  
• Programming computerised cutting equipment 
• Using hand and power tools safely and efficiently  
• Assembling timber structures in a workshop, such as window and door frames
• Conducting quality checks and reporting to senior staff.

How to become a bench joiner

There are several routes to becoming a bench joiner. You could complete a college course, an apprenticeship, on-the-job training, or apply to an employer directly. 

You should explore these routes to becoming a bench joiner to find out which is right for you. Although some of these options have certain qualification requirements, many employers are more interested in people who are enthusiastic, willing to learn and can follow instructions. 

You may need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card to work on a construction site.  

College/training provider 

You could complete a training course to help you become a bench joiner, such as a Level 2 or 3 Diploma in Bench Joinery, Carpentry and Joinery, or Wood Machining.  

• Equivalent entry requirements explained 
• Find a course near you 
• Funding advice 

Apprenticeship 

You could train as a carpentry and joinery apprentice, or wood manufacturing apprentice to work towards becoming a bench joiner. Depending on your previous experience, you could enrol onto an intermediate or advanced apprenticeship. 

Apprenticeships are open to anyone over the age of 16. As an apprentice you’ll be fully employed by your company and expected to work a minimum of 30 hours a week. Your time will be split between on-the-job experience and a college or training provider. 

• Guide to apprenticeships 

Work 

If you have some previous experience in woodworking, you could apply directly to a construction company or builders’ merchant to gain experience as a bench joiner. You might start out as an assistant to a more experienced bench joiner and progress as your abilities improve. 

Work experience 

Work experience is essential to gaining employment within the construction industry. You could gain this at school, or by working weekends and holidays with a company or relative who works as a bench joiner. Potential employers will always be pleased to see work experience listed on your CV. 

• Find out more about work experience 

Skills  

Additional skills which may benefit anyone considering a job as a bench joiner include:  

• Understanding of building and construction 
• Good coordination skills 
• Excellent attention to details 
• Ability to interpret plans and diagrams 
• Good maths skills 
• Confidence to use, repair and maintain machines and tools. 

How much could you earn as a bench joiner?

The expected salary for a bench joiner varies as you become more experienced. 

• Newly trained bench joiners can earn in the region of £24,000 
• Experienced bench joiners can earn up to £48,000* 
• Self-employed bench joiners set their own pay rates. 

Salaries depend on location, employer, level of responsibility, any overtime you may do, and whether you have completed and industry recognised training route.