Carpenter Spotlight

If there is a structure being built or repaired in the oil and gas industry, then a Carpenter is needed. They can be found constructing and erecting facilities and plants, assisting with ongoing maintenance activities and building construction supports such as scaffolds or braces for pipeline projects.

What a typical day looks like:

After looking at the proposed blueprints and sketches, a Carpenter will begin to bring the paper to life. They cut materials to specified measurements, assemble and fasten components and install windows, frames and flooring. Carpenters will often work in groups and tackle a project together, so meeting and coordinating with co-workers can be a large part of their day-to-day job. It’s important that they know what else is being done and by whom.

As Carpenters gain experience, imagination and an ability to see the bigger picture is what puts them in a leadership role on construction projects. They may choose to specialize as well – cribbing and framing appeals to those who can handle heavy lifting, or finishing is a great path for those who prefer details and precision work.

The kinds of problems Carpenters solve at work:

Adaptability is key for a Carpenter, especially when things don’t happen as planned. Carpenters need to be able to make things work with the available materials and tools. Their job is just as much about having foresight, planning and coordinating, as it is about building and creating. They may also find themselves helping other trades to keep the project on schedule.

Skills used most on the job:

“Measure twice, cut once” is a Carpenter’s motto. Carpenters have a logical mind that can follow specifications and perform calculations and measurements. They also have the creativity to think beyond the blueprint when needed. This job appeals to those with good multi-tasking and observation skills.

Consider a career in LNG

In the liquefied natural gas (LNG) sector, Carpenters will play a role in:

Plant construction, mainly required in site development and civil phases.

Pipeline construction, mainly required in civil and electrical phases.

Exploration and production construction, mainly required in site and civil phases.

Plant turnarounds, shutdowns and maintenance.