Demo

Lead Carpenter

JTS Construction
Bakersfield, CA Full Time
POSTED ON 7/12/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 11/8/2026

Lead Carpenter

Position Summary

The Lead Carpenter is a skilled craftsman and field leader responsible for performing advanced carpentry work with the potential to lead a small crew or specific project scope from start to finish. This position requires the ability to read and interpret construction plans, coordinate daily activities, maintain high quality standards, and ensure work is completed safely, efficiently, and in accordance with project specifications.

The Lead Carpenter serves as the primary point of contact for carpentry activities within their assigned area and works closely with Superintendents, Project Managers, subcontractors, and other trades to keep projects moving forward.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Technical Carpentry

  • Read, interpret, and work from architectural, structural, and shop drawings, specifications, and project details.
  • Perform accurate material takeoffs and estimate labor requirements for assigned work.
  • Layout work from plans, including walls, doors, ceilings, embeds, framing, elevations, blocking, backing, and miscellaneous carpentry components.
  • Construct, install, and repair wood, metal, and composite framing systems.
  • Perform rough and finish carpentry in accordance with project specifications.
  • Verify dimensions, elevations, and layouts using appropriate measuring and layout equipment.
  • Identify discrepancies within construction documents and communicate concerns before work begins.
  • Understand and apply applicable building codes including ADA, CBC, DSA, OSHA requirements, and project-specific standards.
  • Troubleshoot field conditions and develop practical solutions to maintain productivity and quality.
  • Coordinate work with other trades to minimize conflicts and maintain project flow.

Leadership & Crew Management

  • Lead, supervise, and work alongside carpentry crews while promoting a positive team environment.
  • Assign daily work activities based on project priorities and manpower availability.
  • Monitor crew productivity and ensure efficient use of labor, materials, and equipment.
  • Train, coach, and mentor apprentice and journeyman carpenters.
  • Hold team members accountable for quality workmanship, attendance, and safe work practices.
  • Foster teamwork, professionalism, and continuous improvement.
  • Communicate daily progress, challenges, and resource needs with the Superintendent or Project Manager.

Project Planning & Coordination

  • Assist in developing short-term work plans and look-ahead schedules.
  • Ensure materials, tools, equipment, and manpower are available before work begins.
  • Anticipate potential schedule impacts and communicate issues proactively.
  • Coordinate inspections and prepare work areas for upcoming activities.
  • Assist with sequencing work to improve efficiency and minimize downtime.
  • Participate in project meetings as requested.

Safety & Quality

  • Lead by example in maintaining a safe work environment.
  • Ensure compliance with all company safety policies, OSHA regulations, and site-specific safety requirements.
  • Conduct daily safety observations and correct unsafe conditions immediately.
  • Maintain clean, organized, and hazard-free work areas.
  • Inspect completed work to verify compliance with plans, specifications, and company quality standards.
  • Ensure deficiencies are corrected promptly.

Technology & Documentation

  • Utilize Procore or similar construction management software as required.
  • Review Requests for Information (RFIs), Architect Supplemental Instructions (ASIs), bulletins, sketches, and revised drawings affecting assigned work.
  • Document completed work, field conditions, and progress as directed.
  • Assist with tracking installed quantities and production when requested.

Leadership Expectations

A successful Lead Carpenter consistently demonstrates the ability to:

  • Work independently with minimal supervision.
  • Manage a defined scope of work from beginning to completion.
  • Anticipate problems before they impact project schedules.
  • Develop practical field solutions while maintaining quality and safety.
  • Build positive working relationships with fellow employees and trade partners.
  • Communicate professionally with Superintendents, Project Managers, and subcontractors.
  • Represent the company with professionalism, integrity, and respect at all times.
  • Promote accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

Education

  • High School Diploma or equivalent.

Experience

· Five (5) or more years of commercial construction carpentry experience required.

· DSA (Department of State Architecture) experience preferred.

· Minimum two (2) years of experience leading crews or supervising field operations preferred.

· Extensive knowledge of commercial framing, finish carpentry, concrete formwork, layout, and construction methods.

· Ability to accurately read and interpret construction drawings and specifications.

· Strong understanding of commercial construction sequencing.

· Knowledge of applicable building codes and industry standards.

· Experience using construction management software such as Procore is preferred.

· Ability to operate common carpentry tools and construction equipment safely.

· Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record may be required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

· Strong leadership and organizational skills.

· Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

· Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.

· Ability to prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced construction environment.

· Ability to mentor and develop less experienced carpenters.

· Strong attention to detail.

· Commitment to safety, craftsmanship, and customer satisfaction.

Physical Requirements

This position requires frequent standing, walking, climbing, kneeling, bending, crouching, lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling throughout the workday. Employees must be able to lift and carry up to 75 pounds regularly and occasionally more with assistance. Work is performed indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions and may require working at heights, on ladders, scaffolding, aerial lifts, or uneven terrain. Personal protective equipment (PPE) must be worn as required.

Work Environment

The Lead Carpenter works primarily on active construction sites where exposure to noise, dust, vibration, moving equipment, changing weather conditions, and other construction-related hazards is common. Compliance with all company safety policies and procedures is required.

This will mostly be working a prevailing wage jobs.

Pay: $25.00 - $30.00 per hour

Benefits:

  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Salary : $25 - $30

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