Carpenter in Gillette, WY

The Salary Picture: Where Gillette Stands

Gillette’s carpentry market sits in an interesting middle ground. It’s not a powerhouse like Denver or Salt Lake City, but it’s far from a stagnant rural town. The median salary for a carpenter here is $56,407/year, which translates to an hourly rate of $27.12/hour. This places you slightly below the national average of $56,920/year, but the lower cost of living helps that salary stretch further than it would in a major coastal city.

The demand is steady, with roughly 66 carpentry jobs available in the metro area at any given time. The 10-year job growth is projected at 5%. This isn’t explosive growth, but it’s stable and consistent. In a region heavily influenced by the energy sector (coal, oil, and natural gas), construction trades are always in demand for both commercial projects and residential housing to support the workforce.

To break it down by experience, here’s how salaries typically align in the Gillette market:

Experience Level	Estimated Salary Range	Hourly Rate (Approx.)	Typical Roles
Entry-Level	$40,000 - $48,000	$19 - $23	Apprentice, Finish Carpenter Assistant, Residential Framer
Mid-Level	$50,000 - $62,000	$24 - $30	Journeyman Carpenter, Commercial Installer, Form Setter
Senior-Level	$60,000 - $75,000+	$29 - $36	Lead Carpenter, Project Foreman, Custom Millwork Specialist
Expert/Owner	$75,000 - $100,000+	$36 - $48+	Master Carpenter, Business Owner, Niche Contractor

How Gillette Compares to Other Wyoming Cities:

• Cheyenne & Casper: These larger cities have higher median salaries (often 5-10% more) due to more commercial and government projects, but the cost of living is also higher.
• Laramie: Home to the University of Wyoming, there’s steady work in institutional construction. Salaries are comparable to Gillette, but the town has a younger, more transient population.
• Sheridan & Cody: These towns have a stronger focus on tourism and historic renovations. Niche skills in log work or restoration can command a premium, but the overall job market is smaller.

Gillette’s median salary is a solid baseline for a carpenter who values stability over chasing the highest possible paycheck in a high-cost-of-living area.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

The median salary of $56,407/year looks different after real-world expenses. Let’s break down a monthly budget for a single carpenter living in Gillette. We’ll use an estimated 22% for federal/state taxes and FICA (a reasonable estimate for this income bracket in Wyoming).

• Gross Monthly Income: $56,407 / 12 = $4,700.58
• Estimated Taxes (22%): -$1,034.13
• Net Monthly Take-Home: $3,666.45

Now, subtract the average 1-bedroom rent of $921/month.

• Remaining After Rent: $3,666.45 - $921 = $2,745.45

This leaves you with a healthy cushion for utilities ($150-$250), groceries ($300-$400), transportation (car insurance, gas, maintenance $300), health insurance ($200-$400), and savings. A single carpenter earning the median wage can live comfortably here without being house-poor.

Can they afford to buy a home?
Absolutely. The median home price in Campbell County is around $350,000-$400,000. With a 20% down payment ($70,000-$80,000), a 30-year mortgage at current rates would have a monthly payment of roughly $1,800-$2,200, including taxes and insurance. This is a stretch on the $56,407 median salary alone, but perfectly manageable for a dual-income household or a senior-level carpenter earning closer to $70,000+. Many local tradespeople buy homes within 3-5 years of steady work.

Where the Jobs Are: Gillette's Major Employers

The carpentry job market here is tied directly to the energy and housing sectors. You’re not finding high-tech startups; you’re finding solid, blue-collar employers.

1. Rogers Petroleum: One of the largest local contractors servicing the Powder River Basin. They have a massive in-house construction and maintenance crew for building and repairing oil/gas infrastructure (pads, camps, offices). They hire journeyman and lead carpenters regularly.
2. Gillette College & Campbell County School District #1: Constant, reliable work. The college and school district have ongoing renovation and expansion projects. These are often union-affiliated or come with excellent benefits and pensions. Check their websites for "Facilities Maintenance" positions.
3. Local Home Builders (e.g., Campbell County Builders Association members): Companies like Schaffer Construction or Gillette Home & Land build the majority of new subdivisions (e.g., in neighborhoods like Fox Run and Prairie View). They need framers, finish carpenters, and remodelers. Hiring is often cyclical, peaking in spring through fall.
4. Mountain View Medical Center & Campbell County Health: Major healthcare employers with constant facility updates, clinic build-outs, and equipment installation. This work requires precision and often off-hours scheduling.
5. Federal & State Agencies: Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and U.S. Forest Service offices in Gillette have seasonal and permanent positions for trail construction, historic structure preservation, and facilities maintenance. These are gold-standard jobs with federal benefits.
6. Industrial Contractors (e.g., those servicing Black Thunder or North Antelope Rochelle Mines): While not always based in Gillette, many have local crews. Work is tied to mine maintenance and expansion. It’s physically demanding but pays at the higher end of the scale.

Hiring Trend: The trend is toward specialized skills. Carpenters who can also do basic plumbing, electrical, or have OSHA 10/30 certifications are more valuable. The market is less about general framing now and more about efficiency, quality finish work, and safety compliance.

Getting Licensed in WY

Wyoming does not have a state-level journeyman carpenter license. This is a significant advantage for entry, as it lowers the barrier to start working. However, there are critical steps to legitimize your career.

1. Apprenticeship (Recommended): The primary path is through an apprenticeship program, typically 3-4 years (around 6,000 hours of on-the-job training plus classroom instruction). The Wyoming Department of Workforce Services (DWS) lists approved programs. In Gillette, check with the local United Brotherhood of Carpenters (UBC) Local 1328. Their apprenticeship is the most direct route to becoming a journeyman.
2. Licensing Costs: There is no state license fee. Apprenticeship programs have modest tuition (often a few hundred dollars per year, sometimes waived by employers) and you pay for your own tools (a $500-$2,000 investment depending on quality).
3. Timeline: From apprentice to a fully recognized journeyman, you're looking at 3-5 years. A "master carpenter" designation is an industry respect earned through decades of experience, not a state-issued license.
4. Key Resource: The Wyoming Contractor Licensing Board is for contractors (business owners), not individual carpenters. If you plan to start your own business, you’ll need a Contractor’s License, which requires passing an exam, proving financial stability, and paying fees (around $300-$500).

Insider Tip: Even without a license, get your OSHA 10-Hour Construction card immediately. It costs about $60 online and is often a prerequisite for even basic laborer jobs on commercial sites.

Best Neighborhoods for Carpenters

Living in Gillette is straightforward. Traffic is minimal, and commutes are short. Your choice will depend on whether you want to be close to work sites or in a quieter residential area.

• Fox Run / Prairie View (West Side): This is the main residential area for families and newer construction. You’ll be a 5-10 minute drive from most home-building sites, the hospital, and the community college.

  • Commute: 5-15 minutes to anywhere in town.
  • Rent Estimate: $950 - $1,100 for a 1BR.
  • Vibe: Suburban, quiet, very safe. Good for families.

• Downtown / Historic District: The area around 2nd Street and Gillette Avenue. Mostly older homes and apartments. You’ll be close to local shops, bars, and the main drag.

  • Commute: Central, 2-10 minutes to most jobs.
  • Rent Estimate: $750 - $950 for a 1BR (older units).
  • Vibe: Urban feel (for Wyoming), walkable, more character.

• Sunrise / Twin Lakes (East Side): A mix of older homes and some new subdivisions. Closer to the industrial parks and the BLM/Forest Service offices.

  • Commute: 10-15 minutes to the west side, 5 minutes to the east side industrial area.
  • Rent Estimate: $850 - $1,000 for a 1BR.
  • Vibe: Established, quiet, with some of the best views of the buttes.

• Ranch at Eagle Butte / Western Hills (Southwest): Newer developments on the outskirts. More car-dependent but offer more space and modern amenities.

  • Commute: 10-20 minutes to downtown/industrial areas.
  • Rent Estimate: $1,000 - $1,200 for a 1BR.
  • Vibe: Sprawling, new, family-centric. Fewer rental options.

Insider Tip: For a carpenter, living in Fox Run or Sunrise makes the most sense. You’re never more than a 15-minute drive from any job site, and the rent is reasonable. Avoid the very far southwest developments unless you value space over commute time.

The Long Game: Career Growth

The 5% 10-year job growth won’t make you rich overnight, but it provides a stable foundation for strategic advancement. Here’s how to increase your earning power in Gillette:

• Specialty Premiums:
  • Custom Millwork & Finish Carpentry: In a town with high-income energy workers, demand for high-end kitchens, built-ins, and trim work is strong. This skill can push you into the $30-$35/hour range.
  • Formwork & Concrete: Specializing in complex concrete forms for commercial/industrial projects is a niche that commands top pay.
  • Historic Restoration: Working on the few historic structures in the area (like the Campbell County Courthouse) requires patience and skill, but it's a resume booster.
  • Leadership: Moving from a journeyman to a foreman or project superintendent is the most direct path to a six-figure income. This requires strong communication and organizational skills, not just carpentry talent.

10-Year Outlook: The outlook remains tied to coal and natural gas. While the long-term future of fossil fuels is debated, the current administration and local economy are heavily invested. This means steady work for the next decade. The push for rural broadband and infrastructure might also create new opportunities. The carpenter who stays adaptable—learning basic digital skills for quotes or using CAD for design—will have the most options.

The Verdict: Is Gillette Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Low Cost of Living (97.0 Index): Your median salary of $56,407 goes much further here.	Economic Dependence: Heavily tied to the energy sector, which can be volatile.
Short Commutes: You can live anywhere and get to work in under 15 minutes.	Limited Cultural Scene: Few museums, concerts, or niche dining options.
Strong, Consistent Demand: The 66 available jobs and 5% growth provide stability.	Harsh Winters: Snow, ice, and wind can make outdoor work challenging 5-6 months a year.
No State License Required: Easy to start working and gain experience.	Isolation: It’s a 3-hour drive to Cheyenne or Rapid City, SD; far from major metros.
Outdoor Recreation: World-class hunting, fishing, and camping right outside your door.	Limited Housing Inventory: Rent can be high for the quality/availability.

Final Recommendation: Gillette is an excellent choice for a journeyman or mid-level carpenter looking for a stable, high quality of life, affordable living, and easy access to outdoor hobbies. It’s not the place for someone seeking a fast-paced, cut-throat career in high-end custom building or for those who crave a bustling urban atmosphere. For the pragmatic tradesperson who values home, community, and steady work, Gillette is a hidden gem.

FAQs

Q: Do I need my own tools to get a job in Gillette?
A: For entry-level laborer positions, sometimes the employer provides basic tools. However, to be hired as an apprentice or journeyman, you are expected to have your own hand tools (hammer, tape measure, square, etc.) and a reliable vehicle with a good set of power tools. Budget at least $1,000-$2,000 for a starter kit.

Q: Is there a union presence?
A: Yes. United Brotherhood of Carpenters Local 1328 is active in the region, particularly for larger commercial and industrial projects. Union jobs often pay at the higher end of the scale ($30+/hour) and offer better benefits (pension, health insurance). Non-union work is also plentiful in residential construction.

Q: What’s the winter work situation?
A: Indoor work continues year-round (framing, interior trim, remodels). Outdoor work (siding, roofing, concrete) slows or stops from November through March. Many carpenters use this time for equipment maintenance, continuing education, or taking short-term indoor projects. Some may leave for warmer states for a few months, but it’s not uncommon to stay and work.

Q: Are there opportunities for someone with no experience?
A: Yes, but they’re competitive. Look for "General Laborer" or "Construction Helper" positions with local home builders or the major contractors (Rogers Petroleum, school district). Express a willingness to learn and get your OSHA 10 card. The key is getting your foot in the door to start logging hours toward an apprenticeship.

Q: How does the cost of living affect my salary?
A: The Cost of Living Index of 97.0 means everything is about 3% cheaper than the national average. While your salary of $56,407 is just below the $56,920 national average, your purchasing power is effectively higher. You can save more or afford a nicer home than you could in a city where salaries are 10% higher but the cost of living is 30% higher.