Apprentice

S and L McPhee Cabinetmakers; Cairns Regional; On-site; AUD 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Mentorship

Job summary

S & L McPhee Cabinetmakers in Cairns, QLD is seeking a dedicated Apprentice to join our team. This full-time position offers hands-on learning under experienced tradespeople, covering all aspects of cabinet making and woodworking to help you become a qualified tradesperson.

You will gain practical experience, mentoring, and support to complete apprenticeship qualifications in a supportive workshop environment.

Qualifications

• Interest in cabinetmaking or woodworking
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality
• Manual dexterity with hand tools and machinery
• Reliability, punctuality and cooperative attitude
• Willingness to undertake apprenticeship training and gain certifications

Responsibilities

• Learn fundamental cabinetmaking techniques under guidance
• Assist design, measurement and fabrication of cabinets and furniture
• Operate tools and machinery safely to cut and shape timber
• Prepare workpieces, apply finishes and perform quality checks
• Maintain clean, safe workspace and comply with health and safety rules
• Support senior cabinet makers with project setup and tasks
• Attend training and coursework as part of apprenticeship
• Develop knowledge of timber types, joinery, finishes and hardware

Skills

Cabinetmaking interest

Attention to detail

Manual dexterity

Reliability

Communication skills

Education

Year 10 or equivalent

Job description

S & L McPhee Cabinetmakers is seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic Apprentice to join our team in Cairns, QLD. This is a full-time position offering an exciting opportunity to learn the craft of cabinetmaking from experienced tradespeople. As an apprentice, you will gain hands‑on experience in all aspects of cabinet making and woodworking, developing the skills and knowledge necessary to become a qualified tradesperson. This role is essential to our business as it ensures the continuation of quality craftsmanship and allows us to invest in the next generation of skilled tradespeople.

Key responsibilities

• Learning and practising fundamental cabinetmaking techniques under the guidance of experienced craftspeople
• Assisting in the design, measurement and fabrication of custom cabinets and wooden furniture
• Operating hand tools and machinery safely and accurately to cut, shape and join timber materials
• Preparing workpieces, applying finishes and performing quality checks on completed items
• Maintaining a clean, organised and safe work environment, adhering to all health and safety regulations
• Supporting senior cabinet makers with project setup, material handling and workshop tasks
• Attending training sessions and completing required coursework as part of your apprenticeship qualification
• Developing knowledge of timber types, joinery techniques, wood finishes and cabinet hardware

What we’re looking for

• A genuine interest in cabinetmaking, woodworking or the building trades
• Strong attention to detail and a commitment to producing high‑quality work
• Manual dexterity and the ability to work accurately with hand tools and machinery
• Reliability, punctuality and a positive, cooperative attitude towards learning
• Physical fitness and the ability to lift and move materials safely
• Good communication skills and the ability to take direction and feedback
• Completion of Year 10 or equivalent, or equivalent life experience
• A current driver’s licence would be advantageous
• Willingness to undertake formal apprenticeship training and gain relevant certifications

What we offer

• Comprehensive on‑the‑job training in cabinetmaking and woodworking techniques
• Mentorship from skilled and experienced tradespeople
• Support in completing your apprenticeship qualifications and formal training
• A supportive team environment where craftsmanship is valued
• Full‑time employment with competitive apprenticeship wages
• A safe and well‑equipped workshop with modern tools and machinery
• The opportunity to develop a rewarding career in a skilled trade

About us

S & L McPhee Cabinetmakers is an established cabinetmaking business based in Cairns, QLD. We specialize in designing and manufacture cabinets and for clients. With a commitment to quality craftsmanship and attention to detail, we take pride in delivering exceptional work that meets our clients' needs. Our team values skill development and creating a workplace where traditional craftsmanship is respected and modern techniques are embraced. We are dedicated to producing fine cabinetry whilst fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional growth.