CABINET MAKER JOB DESCRIPTION

A Cabinet Maker fabricates, assembles, and installs finished wood and composite structures to exact specification. Straightforward to define, the role is harder to perform well: reading engineering drawings accurately, selecting the right material for each joint, and holding dimensional tolerance across a full production run all demand a trained eye and practiced hands. In production shop environments, OSHA-regulated safety standards and 5S housekeeping protocols govern every shift. The role sits within a fabrication team and reports to a shop supervisor or lead technician.

As the Cabinet Maker, you fabricate wood-surfaced structures, assemblies, and custom components that meet production schedules, dimensional standards, and quality requirements set by the shop. You work within a manufacturing environment alongside lead technicians and fellow tradespeople, contributing directly to output volume, rework rates, and on-floor safety compliance.

Career Impact: Hands-on mastery of CNC machining, laminate application, and solid surface fabrication positions Cabinet Makers to advance toward lead technician or shop supervisor roles within production manufacturing.

Business Impact: Finished cabinet assemblies, countertops, and casework produced by this role flow directly to commercial clients and end-users, meaning dimensional errors or missed deadlines have immediate, measurable downstream consequences.

Growth Opportunity: Exposure to CNC programming, architectural millwork, and multi-material fabrication expands a Cabinet Maker's market value across commercial construction, aerospace interiors, and custom furniture sectors.

• Fabricate cabinet shells, panels, and subassemblies from engineering drawings and shop specifications to meet dimensional and finish standards.
• Operate production woodworking machinery including drill presses, planers, routers, and sanders with adherence to OSHA safety protocols.
• Cut, shape, and smooth wood and composite materials to specified dimensions using both powered and hand tools.
• Assemble components using fasteners, adhesives, clamps, and hardware including drawer slides, hinges, and latches.
• Inspect finished units for warping, dimensional accuracy, and surface defects before sign-off or packing for delivery.
• Monitor and track material usage and production progress using shop management or material tracking systems.
• Maintain a clean, organized work area in compliance with 5S standards and Hazardous Waste Communication requirements.
• Assist in training junior cabinet makers and support process improvement efforts coordinated by the lead technician.

• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent work experience required.
• 2 or more years of cabinet making or production woodworking experience, with demonstrated ability to fabricate to drawing specification.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, shop drawings, and blueprints accurately.
• Working knowledge of OSHA safety standards, personal protective equipment requirements, and 5S housekeeping practices.
• Competency in basic mathematics including measurement, proportion, and geometric calculation for layout and material estimation.
• Physical capability to lift up to 40 to 100 pounds, climb ladders, and work in restricted or confined spaces as required.
• Ability to operate pneumatic and power tools including table saws, routers, band saws, and screw guns safely and accurately.

• 1 or more years of CNC machine operation or programming experience within a production woodworking environment.
• Experience with laminate application, solid surface fabrication, or wood veneer matching and installation.
• Completion of a formal cabinetmaking apprenticeship, vocational certificate, or trade training program.
• Prior experience contributing to Lean Six Sigma or structured process improvement initiatives in a shop setting.

• On-time completion rate of assigned fabrication units against the production schedule.
• Rework rate per batch, reflecting dimensional accuracy and adherence to drawing specification.
• Number of safety incidents or near-misses per quarter, measuring compliance with OSHA and PPE protocols.
• 5S audit score for the assigned work area, tracking housekeeping and tool organization standards.
• Material waste percentage per production run, indicating efficiency in cutting and layout decisions.
• Typical tools: CNC routers and machining centers (commonly used across the majority of sourced JDs), panel saws, edge banders, and planers.

• Base Salary Range: $42,000 to $62,000 per year depending on seniority and industry segment.
• Bonus: Occasional production or attendance bonuses in manufacturing settings.
• Equity: Not typical for this role and level.
• Health Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision coverage standard at most employers.
• PTO: 10 to 15 days per year, with some employers offering additional shift flexibility.
• Common Perks: Tool allowances, safety gear provided, overtime availability, and apprenticeship or skills training support

Figures are estimates based on general US market benchmarks and may be outdated. Adjust based on location, company size, and seniority level.

Reasonable accommodations are available to qualified individuals with disabilities throughout the application and employment process, in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and applicable state law. All applicants are considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. Employment in this position is contingent on satisfactory completion of a background check. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States.

The Cabinet Maker owns the fabrication of furniture and wood-surfaced subassemblies for aircraft interiors, working from blueprints, aircraft specifications, and engineering drawings. Collaborating with lead technicians and supporting Lean Six Sigma process improvements, this role ensures aircraft interior quality, safety compliance, and parts tracking accuracy across production shifts.

Key Responsibilities

• Fabricate furniture and wood-surfaced subassemblies using blueprints, aircraft specifications, and engineering drawings.
• Assemble, pin, and glue cabinet shells and install drawer slides, hinges, latches, and other hardware.
• Apply exterior surface materials such as laminates, veneers, and cap strips.
• Operate stationary and handheld power tools to fabricate or disassemble furniture.
• Use material tracking systems to create parts demand, track squawks, and sign off work.
• Comply with all safety, 5S, and housekeeping policies and use personal protective equipment.
• Work with lead technicians to develop and implement process improvements using Lean Six Sigma techniques.

Required Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• 2 years of experience in cabinetmaking.
• Experience in the aerospace industry preferred.
• Basic knowledge of cabinetmaking processes, products, and tools.
• Knowledge of Gulfstream inspection and process specifications preferred.
• Ability to climb ladders, work in restricted areas, and lift up to 40 pounds.
• Computer literacy required.

Embedded within a workshop production team, the Cabinet Maker manages jobs from pre-manufacture through to completion, working across freestanding furniture, kitchen cabinets, and large custom items such as wardrobes and media units. Working closely with installation teams and suppliers, this role upholds the workshop's high standards of craftsmanship, scheduling, and client-facing professionalism.

Core Functions

• Plan and manage jobs from pre-manufacture through to completion, ensuring each is completed on schedule and to high standards.
• Operate woodworking machinery, power tools, and hand tools in line with health and safety regulations.
• Read and accurately follow manufacturing plans on CAD drawings.
• Work on freestanding furniture, kitchen cabinets, wardrobes, media units, and other large items.
• Keep the workshop safe, tidy, and visitor ready, and ensure tools are returned to the correct place daily.
• Sign for deliveries and verify contents are correct and fit for purpose.
• Complete timesheets and ensure they are signed off by the workshop manager.

Qualifications and Experience

• Experience working with solid wood and veneer, including techniques for bespoke furniture.
• Knowledge of manufacturing production and processes.
• Proven project and time management skills.
• Strong attention to detail and problem-solving ability.
• Ability to read and follow measurements accurately using competent math skills.
• Ability to work well with team members and interact with clients and suppliers professionally.

Reporting to shop leadership, the Cabinet Maker sets up and operates drill presses, lathes, routers, and related machinery to cut, shape, and assemble standard and custom cabinet components. Partnering with the production team to meet tight deadlines, this role ensures every finished unit meets dimensional accuracy, structural integrity, and workmanship standards.

Primary Duties

• Set up, operate, and tend drill presses, lathes, shapers, routers, sanders, planers, and wood-nailing machines.
• Cut, shape, and smooth wooden parts and cut resources to size as needed.
• Verify dimensions using calipers or rulers.
• Create standard and custom cabinet components and assemble them using fasteners and adhesives.
• Sand products and ensure wood is free of warping, cracking, or swelling.
• Select appropriate materials, fittings, and tools for each task.
• Assemble drawers squarely and meet tight deadlines without sacrificing workmanship.

Skills and Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED preferred, with completion of a training program or apprenticeship as an advantage.
• Prior experience as a Cabinet Maker with a portfolio of completed works.
• Experience with hand tools, table saws, and other woodworking machinery.
• 1 or more years of CNC experience and woodworking or manufacturing experience.
• Good math skills and ability to accurately measure materials.
• Physical fitness including ability to lift up to 100 pounds.
• Ability to take necessary safety precautions and work carefully with tools and equipment.

Sitting at the intersection of technical cabinetmaking expertise and adult learning, the Technical Learning Advisor - Cabinet Maker delivers training sessions, develops workshop content, and coaches learners through complex operational problems. Operating across manufacturing operations and learning development teams, this role strengthens workforce capability and promotes continuous improvement across the woodshop environment.

Duties

• Participate in the proactive analysis of training needs and validate approaches, tools, and training content.
• Deliver training sessions and lead coaching sessions to provide feedback to learners.
• Develop and update technical training content, practical activities, and workshops.
• Act as a resource person providing technical expertise for complex operational problems.
• Develop and manage networks of operations task coaches.
• Recognize and seize opportunities for continuous improvement and promote operational excellence.

Experience and Qualifications

• 3 years of experience as a woodshop, upholstery, or cabinet polisher.
• Experience in learning, adult education, project management, business management, engineering, or coaching.
• Computer skills including Microsoft Office Suite.
• Bilingual ability is an asset.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to influence people.
• Strong team spirit with ease of adaptation and tolerance to change.
• Strong sense of organization and planning.

A key member of the manufacturing shop team, the Cabinet Maker operates production machinery to accurately fabricate custom closets, organization systems, and accessories while maintaining a safe and clean shop environment. Collaborating across warehouse and production functions, this role ensures products are correctly inspected, packed, and delivered to standard.

Functions

• Operate all machinery used in the manufacturing process.
• Perform accurate fabrication of products including custom closets, organization systems, and accessories.
• Inspect and pack products for safe delivery.
• Operate a forklift and maintain a safe shop environment.
• Maintain shop cleanliness and perform other duties as assigned.

Position Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED required, with some college preferred.
• Ability to obtain forklift certification.
• 1 or more years of CNC experience and wood manufacturing experience, with CNC programming a plus.
• Competency with Microsoft Office applications including Word and Outlook.
• Goal-oriented with high-quality standards and strong problem-solving skills.
• Organized and professional with the ability to work independently and collaboratively.

Consistent quality in custom architectural millwork depends on the Cabinet Maker, who interprets fabrication drawings and bills of materials to complete cabinetry projects on time and within budget. Based within a team-oriented shop environment, this role maintains woodworking machinery, resolves design and process concerns, and mentors apprentices to sustain workmanship standards.

Accountabilities

• Interpret fabrication drawings, bills of materials, and work manuals.
• Utilize woodworking tools to complete custom architectural millwork and cabinetry projects.
• Maintain woodworking machinery including routers, shapers, and hand tools.
• Identify concerns or problems with current design or manufacturing processes.
• Complete all quality checks including checklists and quality manuals.
• Train apprentices and work effectively in a team environment.

Background and Experience

• 3 to 5 years of experience fabricating custom architectural millwork or cabinetry.
• Working knowledge of woodworking tools including table saws, routers, planers, and hand tools.
• Ability to read and understand shop drawings.
• Ability to meet deadlines, budgets, and provide quality workmanship.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work in a team environment.

As the Cabinet Maker, this role manages production schedules and completes both factory fabrication and onsite installations, using equipment ranging from traditional hand tools to computerized cutting and design systems. The manufacturing team relies on this work to maintain project timelines, sustain supplier coordination, and deliver finished cabinetry that meets technical drawing specifications.

Role Responsibilities

• Complete onsite installations as well as factory-based manufacturing work.
• Manage production schedules to ensure the best quality of service.
• Read and interpret technical drawings to understand how work fits within the site.
• Use equipment ranging from traditional hand tools to computerized cutting equipment and design software.
• Liaise with clients and key suppliers to ensure all materials are available and ready for each project.

Minimum Qualifications

• Trade qualification in Cabinetmaking, Factory Joinery, or Shop Fitting required.
• Minimum 2 years of experience in cabinetmaking, preferably within a factory setting.
• OH and S White Card required.
• Current First Aid and CPR Certification, or willingness to obtain.
• Full legal working rights in Australia required.
• Strong attention to detail in design delivery.

Cabinet Maker delivers precision manufacturing to detailed technical drawings, operating woodworking machinery and hand and power tools to produce finished pieces on schedule and to exacting quality standards. The work directly supports a well-equipped workshop team that includes a dedicated design and programming department, CNC capabilities, and experienced tradespeople focused on craftsmanship and skill development.

Day-to-Day Responsibilities

• Read and work to detailed technical drawings.
• Operate woodworking machinery confidently and safely.
• Use hand and power tools with proficiency.
• Manufacture products to schedules and deadlines with close attention to detail.
• Maintain a clean, organized workspace and follow all applicable OSHA and corporate safety protocols.

Technical Qualifications

• 5 or more years of experience in a similar cabinet making role preferred.
• Full UK Driving License and ability to reliably commute required.
• Experience operating CNC machines, panel saws, edge banders, planers, and spindle moulders.
• Willingness to learn new skills alongside an experienced team.
• Own selection of hand and power tools is ideal but not essential.

The Cabinet Maker produces high-quality custom exhibits and displays by constructing and assembling cabinet components from shop drawings, working with specialty materials including wood, plastics, high-pressure laminates, and metal. Collaborating across the fabrication and project team, this role operates CNC flatbed routers and heavy woodworking machinery to meet tight deadlines while upholding structural integrity and safety compliance.

Key Deliverables

• Construct and assemble cabinet components into quality exhibits and displays using shop drawings and verbal instructions.
• Display proficiency with specialty materials including wood, plastics, high-pressure laminates, and metal.
• Operate woodworking machinery including sliding table saws, compound miter saws, band saws, jointers, and planers.
• Load and operate a CNC flatbed router and perform basic metal fabrication and finishing.
• Verify and double-check all calculations to ensure alignment of components using blueprints and design plans.
• Reinforce joints and structural attachments to maximize stability and durability without compromising aesthetics.

Professional Experience

• 5 to 10 years of experience in cabinetmaking, architectural millwork, production casework, laminates, and solid surface fabrication.
• Working knowledge of CNC machining, basic metal fabrication, and finishing methods required.
• Experience with scenic construction methods including wall panels, platforming, and decorative scenic items.
• Ability to read and interpret architectural drawings, CAD detailed drawings, and design renderings.
• Ability to operate a forklift with company-provided training.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills including use of computers, apps, and relevant software.
• Experience working in a collaborative team environment.

Reporting to the Cabinet Shop Supervisor, the Cabinet Maker fabricates, installs, and maintains cabinet components and hardware with minimal supervision while meeting production goals, QA and QC standards, and 5S requirements. Partnering with colleagues at all skill levels through training and cooperative working relationships, this role upholds OSHA, EPA, and Hazardous Waste Communication compliance across all shop operations.

Operational Focus

• Fabricate, install, and maintain cabinet components and hardware with minimal supervision.
• Set work priorities to meet production goals as scheduled.
• Read and understand engineering drawings and layout instructions in English.
• Use linear and other measuring devices accurately and apply basic mathematics.
• Assist in training cabinet makers at all skill levels.
• Comply with safety standards, 5S requirements, QA and QC standards, and company rules of conduct.
• Follow Hazardous Waste Communication protocols, spill response procedures, and evacuation routes.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities

• Ability to laminate cabinets and panels as needed.
• Experience with pneumatic and power tools including drills, screw guns, table saws, band saws, and routers.
• General knowledge of OSHA and EPA standards.
• Training in Hazardous Materials Handling Operations with annual refresher as required.
• Ability to read simple instructions and communicate effectively in one-on-one and small group situations.
• Ability to perform all operations within acceptable quality and time standards.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to establish cooperative working relationships.

The Cabinet Maker develops countertops, complex assemblies, and solid surface fabrications using CNC machines, panel saws, edge banders, and a full range of woodworking machinery, delivering commercial woodwork that meets university facility standards. Collaborating with project supervisors and facility operations teams, this role tracks material and labor usage, repairs existing casework, and ensures every fabricated structure is finished and installed to specification.

Strategic Responsibilities

• Lay out, cut, shape, and assemble components for wood, plastic laminate, and composition structures using powered and hand tools.
• Fabricate countertops and complex items using plastic laminates, wood veneers, metals, glass, and solid surface materials.
• Mill rough lumber to final dimensions using straight-line rip saws, profimat milling machines, and planers.
• Operate CNC machines, panel saws, edge banders, power saws, and joinery machines.
• Install hardware including hinges, lock units, pulls, drawer slides, and custom casework hardware.
• Repair and rework existing casework, woodwork, and solid surface applications.
• Track all material and production labor used throughout the fabrication process.

Education and Experience

• High school graduation required.
• 5 years of experience in cabinet making and commercial woodwork applications, with 6 to 10 years preferred.
• 5 years of experience with CNC programming and machining, including maintaining CNC equipment, digital saws, and edge banding equipment preferred.
• Experience with solid surface fabrications including countertops, integral back splashes, and integral sink applications.
• Experience with wood veneer fabrication methods including matching, installing, and repairing veneer.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, diagrams, sketches, and job-related specifications.
• Knowledge of Google software and smart phone, tablet, and computer technology.

As the Cabinet Maker, this role sets up and operates CNC routers, edge banders, and bore and dowel machines to build, maintain, and install all cabinetry across a resort and casino facility, working under the direction of the Cabinet Shop Supervisor. The cabinet shop team relies on this work to complete assigned Furniture Fixtures and Equipment projects on time, maintain OSHA compliance, and uphold confidentiality and asset protection across all work areas.

Job Functions

• Set up, operate, maintain, and tend CNC routers, CNC bore and dowel machines, CNC edge banders, case clamps, and various hand tools.
• Fit parts together using glue and clamps, reinforce joints using nails or screws, and trim and sand wooden surfaces.
• Build, maintain, and install all cabinetry using skills of the trade.
• Apply veneer or polish to finished products and repair or restyle wooden furniture or fixtures.
• Complete assigned projects to accepted standards on time using provided tools and materials.
• Supervise and coordinate staff assigned to the manufacture and repair of Furniture Fixtures and Equipment.
• Adhere to safety policies, OSHA regulations, and best practices, and protect company assets and maintain confidentiality.

Required Qualifications

• One-year certificate from college or technical school required.
• 3 years of experience with cabinet shop equipment and associated systems.
• Ability to read blueprints required.
• Knowledge of and ability to operate and repair all cabinet shop-specific tools and equipment.
• Ability to calculate figures including discounts, proportions, percentages, area, and volume using basic algebra and geometry.
• Good organization and communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Must be a self-starter, highly motivated, flexible, and willing to work nights, weekends, and holidays.

Cabinet Maker refines the construction of custom exhibits by reading blueprints and sketches, selecting appropriate tools, and following established fabrication standards to ensure each piece meets specification and safety requirements. Success in the position means completing preventive maintenance, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and contributing to a clean, organized shop that supports both independent work and team collaboration.

What You'll Do

• Read and interpret blueprints, drawings, and sketches to determine specifications and material requirements.
• Use appropriate measuring tools to prepare layout.
• Follow standards and procedures for constructing exhibits and make repair adjustments as necessary.
• Use appropriate tools for measuring, cutting, shaping, and assembling materials.
• Ensure safe and efficient operation of equipment by completing preventive maintenance and troubleshooting malfunctions.
• Maintain a safe and clean working environment and assist with warehousing as needed.

Experience and Qualifications

• 3 to 5 years of experience in exhibit or event fabrication, scenic set building, or carpentry and woodworking.
• Laminating experience required.
• Working knowledge of safe operation of hand and power tools and standard fabrication equipment.
• Ability to work independently or as part of a team with a positive attitude.
• Ability to follow directions and stay productive without constant supervision.
• Knowledge of or ability to learn safety requirements of a shop environment.
• Ability to work long hours as needed.