Chief Carpenter

Job Description

Job Description

Great Northern Builders, Inc.

Chief Carpenter

Location: South Berwick, ME | Full-Time |

Build with Purpose. Lead with Integrity.

At Great Northern Builders, Inc., you'll find steady, meaningful work, a supportive team, and leaders who value craftsmanship, integrity, and balance. We're a woman-owned, award-winning residential construction company specializing in high-quality remodeling, additions, and custom homes throughout the Seacoast of New Hampshire and Southern Maine.

We pride ourselves on being ethical, authentic, and deeply knowledgeable -- a team that communicates openly, follows through on commitments, and delivers beautiful, lasting results. Our company operates using the Entrepreneurial Operating (EOS) System, providing structure, accountability, and growth opportunities at every level.

We're looking for a Chief Carpenter who brings advanced technical carpentry skill, strong field judgment, and pride in exceptional craftsmanship. This person will serve as a trusted craft leader on residential remodeling and custom home projects, helping guide work in the field, mentor other carpenters, and ensure every detail meets Great Northern Builders' standards.

This is a hands-on role for someone who can work independently on complex carpentry tasks, solve problems in the field, and represent the company professionally with clients, trade partners, and team members.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform advanced carpentry work from framing through high-end finish on residential remodeling, additions, and custom home projects.
• Lead by example in craftsmanship, job site safety, organization, and professionalism.
• Read and interpret blueprints, specifications, drawings, and plans accurately.
• Complete layout, framing, trim, cabinetry, millwork, doors, windows, and finish details with precision.
• Coordinate daily work with Project Managers, trade partners, and other team members to support schedule and budget goals.
• Mentor and guide carpenters or apprentices assigned to your projects.
• Identify and resolve field challenges efficiently while protecting quality and safety.
• Assist with material take-offs, ordering, job site setup, and planning as needed.
• Maintain clean, organized, and safe job sites.
• Communicate clearly and professionally with clients, trades, and the GNB team.
• Ensure all work meets company standards for quality, detail, and long-term durability.
• Represent Great Northern Builders' values in every client and team interaction.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of hands-on residential carpentry experience preferred, including remodeling and finish work.
• Advanced skill in framing, trim, cabinetry, millwork, doors, windows, stairs, and building systems.
• Experience leading small crews, mentoring others, or serving as a senior craftsperson in the field.
• Strong ability to read plans, problem-solve, and execute complex carpentry work with minimal oversight.
• High attention to detail and pride in clean, precise, well-built work.
• Professional, respectful communication skills with clients, coworkers, and trade partners.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation required.
• OSHA certification or safety training a plus.
• Must be able to lift 50 lbs and work in varying conditions.

Personal Qualities

• Dependable, proactive, and takes ownership of every task.
• Calm, positive, and adaptable when plans change.
• A natural mentor who enjoys helping others improve.
• Team-oriented and committed to collaboration and accountability.
• Proud of well-built, clean, and organized work.
• Committed to ongoing learning, craftsmanship, and professional growth.

Salary & Benefits

• Full-time, W-2 position
• $85,000 - $105,000 per year (salary plus production incentive plan combined)
• Paid Time Off: 2 weeks to start; additional PTO after 2 years
• Paid Holidays: New Year's Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving + Friday after, Christmas Day, and half-day Christmas Eve
• Retirement: SIMPLE IRA with 3% company match after 90 days
• Health Insurance: Up to $500/month toward employee premium
• Life, Short- & Long-Term Disability Insurance: Company-paid
• Dental & Vision Insurance: Company-paid
• $500 Annual Tool Allowance
• Company tools provided if required, or bring your own tools. Candidate should own their own hand tools.
• Continuing education and advancement opportunities

Why Work With Us

At Great Northern Builders, we build homes and careers with care. You'll join a team that values professionalism, quality, and continuous growth. If you take pride in your craft and enjoy working with others who hold themselves to the same standard, you'll thrive here.

Great Northern Builders, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

At Great Northern Builders, we build homes and careers with care. You'll join a team that values professionalism, quality, and continuous growth. If you take pride in your craft and enjoy working with others who hold themselves to the same standard, you'll thrive here.

Company Description

At Great Northern Builders, we build homes and careers with care. You'll join a team that values professionalism, quality, and continuous growth. If you take pride in your craft and enjoy working with others who hold themselves to the same standard, you'll thrive here.