Cabinetmaker

Summary

Set-up and operate a variety of woodworking machines (such as power saws, jointers, and mortisers) and use various hand tools to fabricate (cut, shape, and assemble) and repair wooden benches, cabinets, and other articles.  Surface, cut, or shape lumber.  Fabricate parts for wood products.  Familiar with standard concepts, practices, and procedures within the field.  Rely on limited experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals.  Perform a variety of tasks.  Work under general supervision.  Exercise a certain degree of creativity and latitude.  Typically report to a Maintenance Supervisor or Maintenance Manager.

Examples of Work

Job functions are specific duties that would be included in the essential functions of the job description.  These functions are not all-inclusive nor do they cover the full extent of the duties performed.

• Verify dimensions or check the quality or fit of pieces to ensure adherence to specifications
• Produce or assemble components of articles, such as store fixtures, office equipment, cabinets, or high-grade furniture
• Measure and mark dimensions of parts on paper or lumber stock prior to cutting, following blueprints, to ensure a tight fit and quality product
• Set up or operate machines, including power saws, jointers, mortisers, tenoners, molders, or shapers, to cut, mold, or shape woodstock or wood substitutes
• 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
• Attach parts or subassemblies together to form completed units, using glue, dowels, nails, screws, or clamps
• Reinforce joints with nails or other fasteners to prepare articles for finishing
• Estimate the amounts, types, or costs of needed materials
• Install hardware, such as hinges, handles, catches, or drawer pulls, using hand tools
• Trim, sand, or scrape surfaces or joints to prepare articles for finishing
• Match materials for color, grain, or texture, giving attention to knots or other features of the wood
• 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
• Perform final touch-ups with sandpaper or steel wool
• Bore holes for insertion of screws or dowels, by hand or using boring machines
• Repair or alter wooden furniture, cabinetry, fixtures, paneling, or other pieces
• Dip, brush, or spray assembled articles with protective or decorative finishes, such as stain, varnish, paint, or lacquer
• Draw up detailed specifications and discuss projects with customers
• Design furniture, using computer-aided drawing programs
• Apply Masonite, Formica, or vinyl surfacing materials
• Program computers to operate machinery
• May operate University of Florida (UF) vehicles
• Perform other duties, as assigned

Education and Experience

• Completion of an approved apprenticeship program in cabinet making, or a high school diploma (or equivalent) and three (3) years of appropriate experience
• Appropriate vocational/technical training may substitute for the required experience

Licensure and Certification

Florida Class E operator (driver) license (if required to work at remote locations)

Supervision

• Typically report to a Maintenance Supervisor or Maintenance Manager
• Work under general supervision
• Does not directly supervise
• May lead and direct the work of others

To see common career pathways for each position at the University of Florida please visit the Career Paths section of the UFHR website.