Cabinet Maker

The skills required are wide and varied and include working with wood, metals, plastics and other manufactured materials. Using woodworking machines and tools.  
Automation: the use of woodworking machines and CNC is an integral part of manufacturing. Computer skills and CAD/CAM software for CNC programming is an essential part of the trade.

Most commonly reported Work Tasks

• Produce or assemble components of articles, such as store fixtures, office equipment, cabinets, or high-grade furniture.
• Verify dimensions or check the quality or fit of pieces to ensure adherence to specifications.
• Set up or operate machines, including power saws, jointers, mortisers, tenoners, molders, or shapers, to cut, mold, or shape woodstock or wood substitutes.
• Measure and mark dimensions of parts on paper or lumber stock prior to cutting, following blueprints, to ensure a tight fit and quality product.
• Reinforce joints with nails or other fasteners to prepare articles for finishing.
• Attach parts or subassemblies together to form completed units, using glue, dowels, nails, screws, or clamps.
• Establish the specifications of articles to be constructed or repaired or plan the methods or operations for shaping or assembling parts, based on blueprints, drawings, diagrams, or oral or written instructions.
• Cut timber to the right size and shape and trim parts of joints to ensure a snug fit, using hand tools, such as planes, chisels, or wood files.
• Match materials for color, grain, or texture, giving attention to knots or other features of the wood.
• Trim, sand, or scrape surfaces or joints to prepare articles for finishing.

Most commonly reported Work Activities

• Getting Information Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
• Controlling Machines and Processes Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
• Handling and Moving Objects Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
• Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Material Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
• Monitor Processes, Materials, or Surroundings Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
• Performing General Physical Activities Performing physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling of materials.
• Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.
• Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
• Judging the Qualities of Things, Services, or People Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
• Making Decisions and Solving Problems Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.

This occupation is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests:

Realist

Realists are usually interested in 'things' - such as buildings, mechanics, equipment, tools, electronics etc. Their primary focus is dealing with these - as in building, fixing, operating or designing them. Involvement in these areas leads to high manual skills, or a fine aptitude for practical design - as found in the various forms of engineering.

Realists like to find practical solutions to problems using tools, technology and skilled work. Realists usually prefer to be active in their work environment, often do most of their work alone, and enjoy taking decisive action with a minimum amount of discussion and paperwork.

Administrative

Administrative people are interested in work that offers security and a sense of being part of a larger process. They may be at their most productive under supervisors who give clear guidelines and while performing routine tasks in a methodical and reliable way.

They tend to enjoy clerical and most forms of office work, where they perform essential administrative duties. They often form the backbone of large and small organisations alike. They may enjoy being in charge of office filing systems, and using computers and other office equipment to keep things running smoothly. They usually like routine work hours and prefer comfortable indoor workplaces.

Qualities

You will need a good awareness of space and size, good hand skills and a sense of design. A reasonable level of mathematics is required for measuring and calculating, and for dealing with automated and hi-tech equipment. You should be creative, yet able to work from plans and drawings with minimum supervision.  
 
Patience and high levels of concentration are necessary, combined with the ability to carry out tasks accurately and precisely. It is important that you take pride in your work and make sure that each operation is properly finished.

Salary Range (thousands per year)* €15k - €32k

Data Source(s):
Payscale.com

Last Updated: March, 2017

* The lower figures typically reflect starting salaries. Higher salaries are awarded to those with greater experience and responsibility. Positions in Dublin sometimes command higher salaries.

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