Cabinet Maker apprenticeship

What does a cabinet maker do?

Cabinet makers build and assemble furniture, cabinets, and fittings for kitchens, bathrooms, offices and more. Working with timber, veneers, and various woods, cabinetmakers combine technical design skills with building ability.

Cabinet makers usually work for companies that renovate kitchens, bathrooms, and other rooms in homes, as well as in woodworking workshops and furniture design studios. They may specialise in areas like wood machining, refurbishing antiques or maritime work.

On any given day you could be:

Looking at drawings, work orders and sample parts to calculate specs  
Marking, cutting, and shaping wood  
Assembling parts to create sections of furniture and finished pieces  
Fitting hinges, locks, catches, drawers, and shelves  
Building frames for chairs and couches  
Repairing furniture and antiques

Average salary

$63,230

Career perks

Hands-on but also requires brain power; Work during business hours

Where you’ll work

Woodworking and furniture workshops; city or regional areas 

This career would suit someone who is: 

Organised
Communicative
Reasonably fit
Practical
Meticulous

FAQs

What will I learn from a cabinet maker apprenticeship?

A cabinet maker apprenticeship teaches all the skills required for cabinet making and furniture assembly and how to handle tools the right way.

Qualified tradespeople supervise apprentices to:

Produce both manual and computer-aided drawings for making furniture
Use hand tools and drilling machines, saws, and computer-controlled sizing equipment
Pick and prepare timber and manufactured boards for making furniture
Install finished or repaired fitted cabinets and components

How do I apply for a cabinet maker apprenticeship?

It's easy to apply for a cabinet maker apprenticeship through MEGT’s Job Board.

Check out the MEGT Job Board in the top right-hand corner of our website.
Search for ‘cabinet maker apprenticeship’ on the Job Board.
Apply online – send your resume and cover letter directly to employers.
Polish up the interview skills and land a job as an apprentice!

What are my career options after completing my apprenticeship?

After finishing your four-year apprenticeship, including your Certificate III in Cabinet Making and Timber Technology, you will be qualified to work as a cabinet maker.

Once you’ve gained some experience, you can specialise in different areas of cabinetry.

What is a Certificate II?

Certificate II refers to a nationally recognised qualification that prepares you for the workplace or academic studies. While it’s not required, it may help you to prepare for a Certificate III.