Cabinet Installer

Working Schedule

Cabinet Installers typically work full-time, and must frequently travel to job sites. They may work overtime when collaborating with construction teams on larger projects.

Typical Duties

• Meet with clients as needed to go over the project scope, details, timeframes, and budget
• Prepare quotes based on costs for materials, labor, etc. Respond to questions or offer clarification
• Share formal contracts for client review, approval, and signature
• Read and interpret installation blueprints, plans, and hardware needed
• Thoroughly measure and prepare installation sites. Verify the dimensions of installation areas to ensure cabinets will fit as designed
• Take into consideration plumbing fixtures, lighting, doors, appliances, etc.
• Install cabinets, ensuring they are level, secure, and properly aligned. Adjust or modify cabinets on-site for a perfect fit
• Use a variety of tools for measuring, cutting, and fastening during installation
• Install hardware (such as hinges, handles, catches, or drawer pulls) using hand tools
• Apply touch-ups to installed cabinets, if needed and qualified
• Coordinate with clients, designers, and construction teams throughout the installation process
• Clean worksite after installation; return vehicle with equipment and tools back to place of employment
• Submit invoices to clients for payment; respond to any disputes or discrepancies

Additional Responsibilities

• Account for all equipment and tools. Perform routine maintenance or repairs as needed
• Order new equipment, tools, hardware, or other supplies when necessary
• Keep accurate records of installations and materials used
• Maintain a safe working environment, adhering to safety standards
• Continuously update skills to include the latest installation techniques and tools

Soft Skills

• Accuracy
• Analytical
• Business oriented (if self-employed)
• Customer service
• Detailed-oriented
• Excellent hand-eye coordination
• Manual dexterity
• No severe dust allergies or breathing issues
• Patience
• Perseverance
• Problem-solving
• Project management
• Quality assurance
• Safety-minded
• Sound judgment and reasoning
• Strong communication skills

Technical Skills

• Assembly techniques
• Basic math calculations
• Blueprint reading
• Estimating materials and costs
• Installation and fitting techniques, such as scribing and using shims
• Installation of hardware (e.g., hinges, handles)
• Knowledge of adhesive application
• Knowledge of drawer slide installation and adjustments
• Layout and marking techniques
• Proper use of hand tools (e.g., chisels, planes, saws) and power tools (e.g., table saw, band saw, router)
• Safety procedures

• Construction firms
• Homebuilding companies
• Independent contractors
• Renovation and remodeling companies
• Retail outlets offering installation services
• Self-employed

Installing cabinets is precision work. Installers need to take their time to plan meticulously and get the job done right the first time. There are a ton of things to consider, such as taking accurate measurements, calculating ceiling height, bringing the right hardware, building around existing plumbing, considering how doors may interfere, and planning for how cabinets may impact lighting.

In addition to all the tasks to keep track of, the work can be physically demanding, too—especially when the day is running long. But there’s little margin for error, which means installers can’t take shortcuts.

If the finished project isn’t perfect, they could have to come back to fix things. Otherwise, they might have to issue a refund, risk damaging their business reputation, or even get taken to small claims court.

The integration of technology in cabinet design is a growing trend, transforming the way cabinets are installed and used.

Modern installations often include built-in charging stations, sensor-activated lighting, and advanced soft-closing mechanisms. These additions require installers to stay up-to-date on working with such components and tech features.

Another trend is the demand for eco-friendly and sustainable materials in cabinet construction. Cabinet Installers increasingly work with recycled materials, bamboo, and low-VOC finishes. While the installers don’t create the cabinets, they do need to know how to properly handle these materials.

There’s also a trend towards customized cabinetry, which calls for installers to be a bit more creative in their installation approaches due to non-standard sizes. 

In their younger years, Cabinet Installers may show an affinity for hands-on activities. They might have enjoyed woodworking, crafting, or building models. In addition, they could have been very handy around the house, repairing household items or doing some light carpentry work. They’re also usually very organized and great planners!