Carpenter
Carpenters build roofs and ceilings for energy-efficient buildings, and formwork, the temporary moulds that hold concrete in shape while it sets, for foundations such as the bases of wind turbines. The link is indirect, because South Africa's energy transition skills studies don't name carpenters, although construction is the stage of solar and wind projects that employs the most people.
Jobs in the energy transition
Formwork carpenter
You'd build formwork for concrete foundations, such as the large bases that wind turbines stand on, and take it down once the concrete has set.
Roof and ceiling carpenter
You'd build and repair roofs and ceilings in new homes and buildings, which national rules say must help the building use energy efficiently.
How to get there
The qualifications
You'd work towards the Occupational Certificate: Carpenter, which is at NQF Level 4, the same level as Matric.
What you need to start
The official minimum is a qualification at NQF Level 3, one level below Matric, such as Level 3 of the National Certificate (Vocational) at a TVET college.
These are the official minimum requirements, and colleges can set higher ones.
Where you can study
Data verified June–July 2026 from official college publications and the DHET occupational qualifications register. Spot an error? Suggest a correction.
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