Cabinetmaking

What they do:

Cabinetmakers design, plan, and build furniture, built-in units, and architectural elements of all kinds, combining aesthetic appeal, functionality, and customer requirements. They manufacture furniture and interior fittings according to plans, install them professionally, and ensure sound insulation, fire safety, and thermal and moisture protection. They also carry out repairs, maintenance, and restoration work, including drywall and finishing tasks.

Cabinetmakers mainly work with wood and wood-based materials, but they can also process stone, marble, metal, plastics, and glass. They use and maintain machines, tools, and production equipment, operate them safely, and take care of their upkeep. They plan, coordinate, and document all stages of the work process, recording time, materials, and costs, often using digital tools and information systems. Cabinetmakers work independently or in teams, based on customer orders or project specifications. When in a supervisory role, they organise human and material resources, monitor and evaluate the completed work, and ensure quality, safety, and environmental standards are met.

Key skills:

• Design and production of custom-made furniture and interior fittings
• Working with wood, wood-based and composite materials
• Installation, restoration, and drywall construction
• Use and maintenance of woodworking tools and machinery
• Precision, creativity, teamwork, and customer focus