Restoration Crew Lead

Job Description

Job Description

This isn't an entry-level post. If you've been doing this work for years and you're ready to own a crew, set the standard, and build something — read on.

About Us

Independent Restoration Services (IRS) is a property restoration company serving homeowners and insurance carriers throughout the greater Cleveland area. We respond when families need help most — after water damage, fire, and other property losses — and we take pride in doing the job right, every time.

We're a small, local team. You'll have direct access to ownership, decisions get made fast, and the work you do here will actually matter. We're not a franchise. We're not a call center with a crew. We're building something, and we want the right person leading our field operations.

The Opportunity

We're looking for an experienced restoration professional to step in as our Lead Technician — the person who sets the bar for quality, safety, and professionalism on every job site. You'll run field operations, train incoming subcontractors and new hires, and be the face of IRS inside every home we work in.

This is a real leadership role with real accountability. If you're looking to clock in and clock out, this isn't the right fit. If you want to build a career, grow into a Project Manager role, and be recognized for the standard you hold — we want to talk.

What You'll Do

• Lead field operations on water and fire damage restoration jobs from start to finish
• Set up, monitor, and document drying equipment (dehumidifiers, air movers, air scrubbers) on water-loss jobs
• Perform and oversee demolition on residential properties — flooring, drywall, and other affected materials
• Train and orient all incoming subcontractors and new team members on tools, demo procedures, job site safety, and IRS standards
• Hold yourself and your crew to the IRS standard: straight cuts every time, shoe covers upon arrival, leave the home cleaner than when we got there
• Serve as the primary point of contact for homeowners on-site — calm, professional, and representing IRS well under pressure
• Collaborate with Project Managers on day-to-day coordination and job completion
• Document work progress through photos and field notes

What We're Looking For

• 3+ years of hands-on experience in home restoration, construction, demolition, or a closely related trade — this is required, not preferred
• You've led people before and know how to hold a crew accountable without losing their respect
• You take pride in the details — the kind of person who notices a bad cut or a dirty job site and fixes it without being asked
• Professional in every sense: on time, prepared, composed in front of homeowners
• Valid driver's license with a clean record
• IICRC certification is a plus — if you don't have it yet, we'll get you there

Compensation & Benefits

• $55,000 – $65,000 per year, depending on experience
• 10% referral fee for any jobs sourced outside of company lead gen
• Full-time, year-round work — restoration doesn't slow down the way construction does
• Take-home company vehicle after 6 months
• Company-paid IICRC WRT certification after 6 months
• Clear growth path to Project Manager as IRS expands — we promote from within

To Apply

If this sounds like the role you've been waiting for, we'd like to hear from you. Tell us about your experience and why this is the right next step for you.