SHOP / LEAD CARPENTER Scenic, Tradeshow & Experiential Fabrication

Job Description

Job Description

Cadence is seeking a working Shop / Lead Carpenter to support high-profile scenic, tradeshow, and experiential builds for national brands.

This is a hands-on leadership role. You’ll be on tools most days while also coordinating people, materials, and workflow so projects move efficiently from drawings to shipment.

What you’ll do

• Build custom scenic, exhibit, and architectural elements
• Lead shop builds when projects scale
• Assign and sequence work on larger builds
• Coordinate material ordering and shop supplies
• Own pack-out and shipping accuracy (parts, hardware, tools)
• Maintain and improve shop organization, cleanliness, and safety
• Collaborate with design and PM on build approach and timing

Expect roughly 80% building / 20% leadership and organization , with room to grow the role based on strengths.

The shop

• CNC routing
• Dedicated bench and assembly space
• Moderate metalworking capability
• Extensive stock of hardware, fasteners, laminates, and adhesives
• High-quality tools and equipment to support clean, efficient builds

The shop is actively evolving, and this role has real influence in improving layout, workflow, and organization.

Required experience

• Strong bench carpentry background (cabinets, fixtures, millwork)
• Proven lamination and cabinet assembly experience
• Ability to read and execute shop drawings accurately
• Comfortable making decisions and owning outcomes
• Experience working under tight, non-negotiable deadlines

Strong pluses: light welding/metalwork, scenic or spray finishing, acrylics, CNC operation (not programming)

Compensation & Benefits

• $40–$50/hr , based on experience
• Overtime paid when applicable
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off and holidays
• Full-time position; contract considered for the right experience

This is a non-bargaining unit position .

Why you’ll like working here

This is a place for builders who like responsibility. The shop has strong capabilities and has received numerous awards for large and difficult projects.  For someone seeking growth, there’s still room to improve things, and the right people are trusted to help shape how work gets done. There’s very little bureaucracy — structure comes from professionals owning their role. People who bring ideas, take initiative, and care about outcomes tend to do well here.

About Cadence

Cadence designs and builds custom scenic, tradeshow, and experiential environments for national and global brands across automotive, CPG, beer, wine & spirits, and professional and collegiate sports. Our work comes to life in live environments where accuracy, finish, and deadlines matter.