Carpenter Jobs Ottawa 2026: Salary, Apprenticeship & Career Guide
Carpentry is one of Ottawa's most visible and in-demand skilled trades. From framing new homes in Barrhaven to finishing high-end custom builds in the Glebe, carpenters are essential to the city's construction industry. In 2026, strong housing demand and commercial development continue to drive excellent opportunities for skilled carpenters.
Carpentry Market in Ottawa 2026
Ottawa's carpentry sector benefits from multiple growth drivers:
- Residential construction boom — Thousands of new homes planned across the region
- Renovation market — Aging housing stock requiring updates and additions
- Commercial development — New offices, retail, and institutional buildings
- Government infrastructure — Federal building projects and maintenance
- Custom woodworking — Growing demand for artisanal and custom carpentry
Carpenter Salary in Ottawa
| Experience Level | Hourly Rate (CAD) | Annual Salary (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| Apprentice (Year 1-2) | $20 – $28 | $41,600 – $58,240 |
| Apprentice (Year 3-4) | $28 – $38 | $58,240 – $79,040 |
| Journeyman | $38 – $52 | $79,040 – $108,160 |
| Master / Specialist | $52 – $65+ | $108,160 – $135,200+ |
Source: Job Bank Canada, Skilled Trades Ontario, 2026. Union rates through UBCJA Local 2486 may be higher.
Ontario Carpentry Apprenticeship
Ontario's carpentry apprenticeship is structured as follows:
- Duration: 4 years (approximately 7,200 hours)
- Technical training: 8 weeks per year at an approved college (Algonquin College offers the program in Ottawa)
- On-the-job training: Working under a journeyperson carpenter
- Exam: Certificate of Qualification (C of Q) exam through Skilled Trades Ontario
Types of Carpentry Work
- Rough carpentry / Framing — Structural wood framing for homes and buildings
- Finish carpentry — Trim, moulding, doors, windows, and cabinetry
- Formwork carpentry — Concrete forms for foundations and structures
- Industrial carpentry — Scaffolding, shoring, and temporary structures
- Cabinet making — Custom furniture and built-in cabinetry
- Restoration carpentry — Heritage building restoration and repair
Top Carpentry Employers in Ottawa
Major employers include Minto Group, Richcraft Homes, Urbandale Construction, Broccolini, PCL Construction, and numerous smaller residential builders. Union carpenters work through the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners (UBCJA) Local 2486.
Related Resources
Carpenter Jobs Ottawa Guide | Top Paying Trades in Ontario 2026 | Red Seal Certification Guide | Ontario Trades Apprenticeship Programs | Ottawa Construction Boom & Trades Demand