{{ propApi.searchIcon }}

Welcome, {{ fullName }} {{ firstName }}

$vuetify.icon.faTimes
Logout $vuetify.icons.faArrowRight
{{ propApi.closeIcon }}
$vuetify.icons.faTimes
$vuetify.icons.faMapMarker Set my location Use the field below to update your location
Address
Change location
{{propApi.title}}
{{propApi.text}} {{region}} Change location
{{propApi.title}}
{{propApi.successMessage}} {{region}} Change location

$vuetify.icons.faPhone1300 650 620

The Truss Detailer

The Truss Detailer

A truss detailer designs timber roof trusses and frames for residential building projects. They translate architectural plans into detailed drawings and instructions for factory fabrication.

A good truss detailer has a high level of accuracy and attention to detail, an excellent ability to troubleshoot and solve problems, as well as an aptitude for working well under pressure.

Meet the truss detailer: Amy Wood

Amy Wood – Truss Detailer, Redland Bay Roof Trusses

Amy Wood didn’t start out in construction—her journey began in science. But when she realised her passion lay in numbers and problem-solving rather than scientific reports, she took a leap into the building industry, landing an entry-level role as an estimator. With determination and a willingness to learn, she worked her way up to truss detailing, a role she has thrived in for over six years. ‘I had no knowledge of construction when I started, so it was a heavy learning curve, but I tried my hardest to learn as much as possible and eventually worked my way up to detailing. I’m still really enjoying it!’ she says.

As a Truss Detailer at RBRT, Amy designs roof trusses that are manufactured and delivered to job sites. Her work starts with reading construction plans and translating them into precise CAD designs. She collaborates closely with builders, engineers and factory staff to ensure every truss system is not only structurally sound but also easy to install. ‘I answer questions from builders if they need any extra assistance or design advice, and I also work closely with sales reps, factory staff and engineers,’ Amy says.

For Amy, the best part of her job is knowing she’s making a builder’s work easier—delivering high-quality designs and receiving positive feedback keeps her motivated. The strong, supportive culture at RBRT has also made her career even more rewarding. ‘I love completing a job knowing that I’ve done my absolute best to design a great quality product. Nothing beats the feeling of receiving great feedback from customers,’ Amy adds.

Amy’s top 7 tips

Expand your knowledge.
Attend career expos and industry events to connect with professionals. Enrol in short courses to discover emerging trends and explore new areas.

Build a strong support network.
Surround yourself with peers, mentors, and professionals who can offer guidance, encouragement, and real-world insights. 

Explore graduate and internship programs.
These programs offer hands-on experience across different roles, helping you discover your strengths and interests. 

Stay curious and open-minded. 
You don’t need a perfect plan from day one. Be open to trying new things, asking questions, and learning from every experience.

Find what you love .
When you enjoy and love your work, it’s easier to stay motivated and keep learning.

Gain an understanding of the later stages of construction.
Having knowledge of the installation of air conditioning units, cladding, bricks and firewalls means you can design the frames and trusses to work correctly for all trades, not just the carpenters.

Don't be scared to ask for help or get a second opinion on your designs.
Every detailer has different strengths, so collaborating with your team will allow you to come up with the best designs and solutions.

Truss detailers in Australia: key statistics

Employed

1,600

Median age

41

Female share

43%

What a truss detailer does

Produces accurate truss designs and drawings.

Interprets architectural and engineering drawings to develop detailed workshop drawings.

Works closely with clients, engineers, and production teams to ensure design accuracy.

Identifies potential issues and provide solutions to ensure structural integrity.

Identifies cost reduction opportunities through design changes.

Ensures compliance with codes and standards.

Prepares accurate cost estimates.

How to get qualified

A training pathway to become a Truss Detailer could begin with a Certificate III in Timber Systems Design, a Certificate III in Timber Frame or Truss Manufacture, or the higher-level Certificate IV in Timber Systems Design. Essentially, house frames and trusses are now commonly built in factory production lines, then the manufactured house frame is assembled on-site.

Within an off-site frame and truss manufacturing operation, the Truss Detailer interprets architectural and engineering plans and produce frames and trusses that meet Australian standards and comply with the NCC.

Careers in construction

View all careers $vuetify.icons.faArrowRight
SBTF
The Urban Planner
Urban planners help shape the future of our cities, suburbs and communities. They influence how places grow and change, ensuring communities are functional, sustainable and designed to support the people who live in them.
Jun 26
2 mins
Read full article $vuetify.icons.faArrowRight
SBTF
The Construction Supervisor
Construction supervisors are responsible for managing on-site operations, coordinating workers, handling paperwork and ensuring buildings adhere to the National Construction Code.
May 26
2 mins
Read full article $vuetify.icons.faArrowRight
SBTF
The Plumber
Plumbers design, plan and install plumbing systems. Meet plumber Jasmine Turnball and learn more about what her job involves with She Builds The Future.
May 26
2 mins
Read full article $vuetify.icons.faArrowRight
SBTF
The Land Developer
Land developers turn open land into communities where people live, work and connect, managing projects from early ideas through planning, approvals and construction.
May 26
2 mins
Read full article $vuetify.icons.faArrowRight
SBTF
The Interior Designer
Interior designers plan, design and supervise the construction of building interiors. Meet interior designer Megan Nastrom and learn more about what her job involves with She Builds The Future.
May 26
2 mins
Read full article $vuetify.icons.faArrowRight
SBTF
The Painter
Painters paint interiors and exteriors of residential homes. Meet painter and HIA apprentice Sophie Gardner and learn more about what her job involves with She Builds The Future.
May 26
2 mins
Read full article $vuetify.icons.faArrowRight
SBTF
The Air Conditioning Technician
Air-conditioning technicians install and repair air conditioning units. Meet air-conditioning technician Tia Fantasia and learn more about what her job involves with She Builds The Future.
May 26
2 mins
Read full article $vuetify.icons.faArrowRight
SBTF
The Truss Detailer
A Truss Detailer designs timber roof trusses and frames for residential building projects. Meet Truss Detailer Amy Wood and learn more about what her job involves with She Builds The Future.
May 26
2 mins
Read full article $vuetify.icons.faArrowRight
SBTF
The Glazier
Glaziers measure and install windows and flat glass. Meet glazier Emily Hessell and learn more about what her job involves with She Builds The Future.
May 26
2 mins
Read full article $vuetify.icons.faArrowRight
SBTF
The Small Business Owner
Small business owners are the backbone of the residential building industry. Discover what it takes to run a building or trade business, from managing projects and leading teams to building strong client relationships and growing ...
May 26
2 mins
Read full article $vuetify.icons.faArrowRight
SBTF
The Building Surveyor
Building surveyors keep projects safe, compliant and moving forward. They work across design and construction, applying building regulations in practical ways that support quality outcomes.
May 26
2 mins
Read full article $vuetify.icons.faArrowRight
SBTF
The Bricklayer
Bricklayers lay bricks, pre-cut stone and other types of building blocks. Meet bricklayer Hannah Bramble and learn more about what her job involves with She Builds The Future.
May 26
2 mins
Read full article $vuetify.icons.faArrowRight
SBTF
The Architect
Architects plan and design residential / multi-residential buildings. Meet architect Mary Ong and learn more about what her job involves with She Builds The Future.
May 26
2 mins
Read full article $vuetify.icons.faArrowRight
SBTF
The Estimator
Estimators develop budgets and project plans and support construction managers and architects with planning. Meet Kadeen, a Production Estimator.
May 26
2 mins
Read full article $vuetify.icons.faArrowRight
SBTF
The Cabinet Maker
A Cabinet Maker fabricates, assembles and installs kitchen and bathroom cabinetry. Meet Cabinet Maker turned Project Manager Kristy Francis and learn more about what her job involves with She Builds The Future.
May 26
2 mins
Read full article $vuetify.icons.faArrowRight
SBTF
The Contract Administrator
Contract administrators prepare and manage home building contracts. Meet contracts administrator Hayley Ashton and learn more about what her job involves with She Builds The Future.
May 26
2 mins
Read full article $vuetify.icons.faArrowRight
SBTF
The Building Designer
Building designers apply their design and construction skills to building projects. Meet building designer Debbie Johnson and learn more about what her job involves with She Builds The Future.
May 26
2 mins
Read full article $vuetify.icons.faArrowRight
SBTF
The Engineer
Engineers are responsible for managing construction projects and guiding teams. Meet National Engineering Manager Jane Arnolda and learn more about what her job involves with She Builds The Future.
May 26
2 mins
Read full article $vuetify.icons.faArrowRight
SBTF
The Electrician
Electricians install, connect, modify and maintain electrical systems, equipment and wiring. It’s a hands-on role with a lot of variety day-to-day.
May 26
2 mins
Read full article $vuetify.icons.faArrowRight
SBTF
The Concreter
Concreters are responsible for giving a new home its solid foundations and creating spaces around the home to enjoy.
May 26
2 mins
Read full article $vuetify.icons.faArrowRight
SBTF
The Builder
Builders manage the construction and renovation of houses and other buildings. Meet builder / general manager Colleen May and learn more about what her job involves with She Builds The Future.
May 26
2 mins
Read full article $vuetify.icons.faArrowRight
SBTF
The Software Engineer
Software Engineer (Product Managers) manage cross-functional teams to bring software to life; managing the process from concept to reality.
May 26
2 mins
Read full article $vuetify.icons.faArrowRight
HIA | MiTek

Follow us on social media