Field notes • 82 posts
The blog
Licensing, pay, code updates, and career moves. Written by people who've pulled wire, for people who still do.
A Deep Dive into the Framing Carpenter Job Description
Master the Framing Carpenter job description with this expert guide. Explore essential structural duties, tools, and salary insights, plus access 4 ready-to-use templates for hiring apprentices, custom framers, and foremen in the U.S. and Canada.
How to Negotiate a Raise in the Trades: Strategies That Work
Stop waiting for your boss to notice your hard work. Learn how to calculate your true market value, time your request perfectly, and confidently negotiate the raise you deserve—whether it’s cash, tools, or perks.
Mastering the Trim: The Real Scope of a Finish Carpenter
Explore the complete job description for finish carpenters. Learn about core duties like trim and cabinet installation, required tools, salary expectations, and the difference between rough and finish work.
The Drug Test Guide: What Carpenters Need to Know in 2026
Worried about your next drug screen? Read the no-nonsense guide for carpenters covering 5-panel tests, marijuana laws, and practical steps to protect your trade career.
Carpenter Job Description: The Complete Trade Guide in 2026
The definitive carpenter job description guide. Discover the core duties, essential tools, and physical demands of the trade. We break down the key differences between framers, finish carpenters, and apprentices to help you hire skilled talent or land the right job.
Pricing Guide: How Much to Charge for Cabinetry Side Jobs
Learn how to price cabinetry side jobs using the linear foot, per-box, and cost-plus models. This guide covers industry-standard labor rates, material markups, and how to avoid the hidden costs that kill your profit on the weekend.