The Carpenters' Guide to Williston, North Dakota

Welcome to Williston. If you're considering moving here as a carpenter, you're likely looking at the practical side of the trade: the paychecks, the projects, and the pace of life in western North Dakota. I'm a local career analyst, and I've broken down everything you need to know to make an informed decision. This isn't a sales pitch; it's a data-driven look at the reality of the carpentry trade in this specific market.

Williston sits at the heart of the Bakken oil region, a place built by roughnecks and tradespeople. The economy here is tied directly to energy, agriculture, and the infrastructure that supports both. As a carpenter, your skills are always in demand, but the nature of the work, the pay, and the lifestyle are unique to this part of the country. Let's get into the numbers and the neighborhoods.

The Salary Picture: Where Williston Stands

First, let's talk about what you can expect to earn. The carpentry trade here is solid, but it's important to understand the local context. The median salary for a carpenter in the Williston metropolitan area is $55,724/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $26.79/hour. This is slightly below the national average for carpenters, which sits at $56,920/year.

Why the difference? Williston's economy is dominated by industries with their own pay scales. While carpentry is essential for building homes, commercial spaces, and oilfield structures, the highest wages in the region often go directly to oil and gas operators. That said, for a skilled carpenter, the local market offers consistent work and a cost of living that makes that salary stretch further than it would in many other parts of the country.

Here’s how experience level typically breaks down in the Williston area:

Experience Level	Typical Range (Annual)	Notes
Entry-Level	$40,000 - $48,000	Mostly laborer/assistant roles on framing or commercial crews.
Mid-Career	$55,724 (Median)	Can lead crews, work independently on finish carpentry, remodels.
Senior/Expert	$65,000 - $80,000+	Specialized skills (e.g., heavy commercial, custom homebuilding), project management.

When you compare Williston to other North Dakota cities, the picture gets clearer. Fargo, with its more diversified economy and larger population, sees slightly higher median wages for trades. However, Bismarck and Grand Forks are often very close to Williston's figures. The key differentiator isn't the gross pay; it's the jobs available. The metro area has about 55 active carpentry jobs, which is a decent number for a city of its size, but competition can be stiff for the best positions with established firms.

Insider Tip: Don't just look at the median. In Williston, overtime is common on large commercial or energy-related projects. A $26.79/hour base can easily become a $30+/hour effective rate with consistent overtime. Always ask about overtime policies during interviews.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's get real about your budget. The median salary of $55,724 is a good starting point, but what does it mean for your daily life in Williston? The city's cost of living index is 93.0, meaning it's about 7% cheaper than the U.S. average. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $837/month. This is a significant advantage.

Here’s a monthly budget breakdown for a single carpenter earning the median salary, assuming a standard tax situation (federal, state, FICA):

• Gross Monthly Income: $4,644
• Estimated Taxes (25%): -$1,161
• Net Monthly Income: ~$3,483
• Rent (1BR): -$837
• Utilities (Est.): -$200
• Groceries/Gas: -$500
• Insurance/Phone: -$200
• Savings/Discretionary: ~$1,746

This budget leaves a healthy cushion for savings, tools, or a vehicle payment. Unlike major coastal cities, living on a carpenter's wage in Williston is not just possible; it can be comfortable.

Can you afford to buy a home? Absolutely. The housing market in Williston is more accessible than in many parts of the country. While the median home price fluctuates with the oil market, you can find modest homes in the $150,000 - $250,000 range. With a strong credit score and a 20% down payment, a monthly mortgage (including taxes and insurance) could be comparable to or even less than renting, especially for a family. Your stable income as a skilled carpenter makes you an attractive candidate for a local mortgage.

The Jobs Are: Williston's Major Employers

The job market here is tight-knit. You're not applying to massive national chains; you're looking at local and regional firms that know the soil, the weather, and the local building codes. The 10-year job growth for carpenters in the area is projected at 5%. This is modest growth, reflecting a stable but not booming expansion. It means jobs are there, but you need to be proactive.

Here are the major local employers and what they look for:

1. Bridger Construction: A major player in commercial and industrial construction throughout western ND. They handle everything from oilfield support facilities to large retail centers. They value experience with commercial framing and metal studs. Hiring Trend: Consistent, often seeking foremen and lead carpenters.
2. Williston Builders Supply: More than a supplier, they have a strong in-house construction and remodeling division. A great place for finish carpenters and those interested in custom work. Hiring Trend: Steady, often hiring for their remodeling crews.
3. Parker Hannifin (Manufacturing Plant): While not a construction firm, their massive manufacturing facility requires in-house maintenance carpenters for building repairs, office build-outs, and specialized structures. This is a stable, industrial setting. Hiring Trend: Occasional openings, often filled internally or by word-of-mouth.
4. Williston State College: The college's facilities department employs carpenters for campus maintenance and small projects. It's a government-adjacent job with good benefits and a predictable schedule. Hiring Trend: Low turnover, so openings are rare but worth checking.
5. Regional Home Builders (e.g., Custom Homes Inc.): Several local custom home builders cater to the growing residential market. This is the path for high-end finish work, cabinetry, and trim. Hiring Trend: Tied directly to the local housing market and oil prices.
6. City of Williston Public Works: The city employs carpenters for maintaining public buildings, park structures, and infrastructure projects. It’s a union or civil service role with excellent job security. Hiring Trend: Stable, with openings as people retire.

Insider Tip: The best jobs in Williston are often not advertised on national job boards. They're found on Indeed (Williston, ND), Facebook groups like "Williston, ND Jobs," and most importantly, through word-of-mouth. Once you're in the local trade circle, opportunities open up.

Getting Licensed in ND

North Dakota does not have a statewide mandatory license for journeyman carpenters, which is common in many states. However, to work on public projects, for municipalities, or on many commercial jobs, you will need to be a Registered Apprentice or a Journeyman through the North Dakota Department of Labor and Human Rights.

The path typically involves:

1. Apprenticeship: A 4-year program combining on-the-job training (2,000 hours per year) with classroom instruction. You learn from a master carpenter while earning a wage.
2. Journeyman Status: After completing your apprenticeship and passing the required exams, you become a journeyman. This credential opens doors to higher-paying jobs and leadership roles.
3. Costs: Apprenticeship programs often have minimal tuition (sometimes covered by employers or through union dues). You will invest in your own basic hand tools and a reliable vehicle.
4. Timeline: From starting as an apprentice to becoming a journeyman takes about 4 years. If you come with experience, you may test out faster.

Note: For electrical or plumbing work, you do need specific licenses. As a carpenter, your focus is structural and finish. Always check with the Williston City Building Department for local permit requirements on jobs you might lead.

Best Neighborhoods for Carpenters

Where you live affects your commute, your lifestyle, and your access to job sites. Williston is a sprawling city, and job sites can be anywhere—from downtown to the oil fields on the outskirts.

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Typical 1BR Rent
Downtown / Historic District	Walkable, older charm, near city hall and some commercial projects. Short commute to central job sites.	$750 - $950
South Williston	Family-friendly, newer developments, close to schools and shopping. A central commute to most residential jobs.	$800 - $1,000
Williston Heights / East End	Quiet, established neighborhoods with older homes. Good for finish carpenters working on remodels.	$700 - $900
West Williston (near 2nd Ave)	More industrial, closer to manufacturing plants and commercial corridors. Ideal for commercial carpenters.	$650 - $850
New Developments (e.g., near 32nd Ave W)	Modern apartments and townhomes, slightly farther from downtown but with easy highway access for out-of-town jobs.	$850 - $1,100

Insider Tip: If you work for a company like Bridger Construction, you might be on a job site 30 minutes outside of town. Living in central Williston (like South or Downtown) gives you the best access. If you're in commercial maintenance (like at Parker Hannifin), living in West Williston might cut your commute significantly.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Where does a carpenter go from the median salary of $55,724? The 10-year outlook shows a 5% growth rate, meaning the field is stable. To grow your income, you need to specialize or move into management.

• Specialty Premiums: Carpenters with specialized skills can command a premium.

  • Commercial/Industrial Framing: Experience with metal studs, concrete formwork, and large-scale projects can push you toward the $70,000+ range.
  • Custom Finish & Cabinetry: In the high-end residential market, expert finish carpenters are in demand. This requires precision and an eye for detail.
  • Heavy Equipment/Modular Building: Some carpenters work on building modular housing units or specialized structures for the oil field, which often pays more due to the remote or industrial nature of the work.

• Advancement Paths:

  • Lead Carpenter / Foreman: Move from doing the work to managing a crew. This requires leadership skills and knowledge of scheduling and materials.
  • Project Manager: For those with strong organizational skills, you can move into an office role, coordinating entire projects.
  • Business Owner: The ultimate goal for many. Starting your own small contracting business in Williston can be lucrative if you build a reputation for quality and reliability.

10-Year Outlook: The base need for carpenters will remain steady, driven by housing maintenance, commercial updates, and the cyclical nature of the energy sector. The carpenters who will thrive are those who adapt—learning new materials, taking on project management training, and building a strong local network.

The Verdict: Is Williston Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Affordable Cost of Living: A median salary of $55,724 goes far with rent at $837/month.	Weather: Harsh, long winters with extreme cold and wind. Construction can slow down.
Stable Job Market: 55 jobs and 5% growth indicate consistent demand for skilled trades.	Isolation: It's a remote city. You're far from major metropolitan services, entertainment, and family.
Strong Local Network: Easy to build professional connections in a tight-knit community.	Economic Volatility: The job market is heavily influenced by oil prices. Downturns can affect hiring.
Overtime Potential: Many projects, especially in energy and commercial sectors, offer significant overtime.	Limited Housing Variety: The rental market is decent, but the selection of homes for sale can be limited.
Path to Homeownership: A realistic goal on a carpenter's salary here.	Cultural Scene: Limited compared to larger cities. You need to enjoy outdoor activities.

Final Recommendation: Williston is an excellent choice for a carpenter who is practical, financially motivated, and adaptable. If you're looking to build a career, save money, and buy a home without the pressure of a high-cost-of-living area, it's a strong contender. It's less ideal for someone who thrives on a bustling urban scene, mild winters, or a highly specialized arts scene. The trade-off is clear: lower pay than the national average is offset by a dramatically lower cost of living and a steady demand for your skills.

FAQs

Q: Do I need my own tools to get a job in Williston?
A: Yes, absolutely. At a minimum, you should have a comprehensive set of hand tools (hammer, tape measure, speed square, etc.). For larger jobs, employers typically provide power tools, but having your own basic kit shows professionalism and readiness.

Q: What's the best way to find a carpentry job in Williston?
A: Start with online searches on Indeed and LinkedIn, but don't stop there. Visit local contractors in person with your resume. Join the Williston Builders Association or local trade groups on Facebook. In this town, who you know is often as important as what you know.

Q: Are there unions for carpenters in Williston?
A: The United Brotherhood of Carpenters (UBC) has a presence in North Dakota, primarily in larger cities like Fargo. In Williston, the market is mostly open-shop. It's essential to ask any potential employer about their labor model during the interview.

Q: How does the oil boom affect carpentry work?
A: During an oil boom, demand for housing, commercial buildings, and oilfield support structures skyrockets, leading to more jobs and higher overtime. When the boom slows, there's often a shift to maintenance, remodeling, and public works projects. The best carpenters here are those who can pivot between residential, commercial, and industrial work.

Q: Is it worth moving to Williston without a job lined up?
A: It's risky. While there are jobs, the market is smaller than in a major city. It's better to start applying remotely, use any contacts you have, and secure a job offer before making the move, especially given the harsh winter climate.