Formwork carpenters build the molds that retain wet concrete in the construction of foundations and other concrete structures. This position will manufacture forms made from steel, wood or heavy plastic. The work is physically demanding and messy, consisting of carrying the heavy forms, spraying them with oil that keeps the concrete from sticking, securing them with iron rods and inserting steel reinforcement that will give the concrete tensile strength. Once the concrete sets, form workers strip the forms, clean them and prep them for the next project. Formwork carpenters should be in top physical condition and be able to read blueprints. They must be proficient in measuring and cutting, because the premade form sizes don’t always match the exact structure dimensions, and the form worker must construct fillers to bridge the gaps. Basic knowledge of carpenter tools and the ability to figure angles, level and square the forms is essential. Form workers should have a working knowledge of the various methods used to assemble all major types of forms. And because a high percentage of commercial construction involves multilevel structures, form workers should also be comfortable working at heights.
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Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
No Education Listed