Cowdin Design + Build

Lead Carpenter

Location: Plymouth, MI (projects along the I-275 corridor: Farmington Hills, Novi, Northville, Plymouth, parts of Canton)

Build with purpose and lead by example.

If you're a seasoned residential carpenter who thrives on precision, leadership, and craftsmanship, this role will feel like home. At Cowdin Design + Build, our Lead Carpenters are the field captains, balancing hands-on expertise with coordination, mentoring, and proactive problem-solving to keep projects moving smoothly and beautifully from start to finish.

We're a small, highly focused design-build firm delivering 10 to 13 major projects a year across Metro Detroit's west side. From whole-home remodels and additions to stunning kitchens and primary suites, we pair craftsmanship with clear communication and a smooth client experience. Our field team is the heartbeat of our quality, schedule, and reputation.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily field operations, coordinating with project managers, subcontractors, and clients.
• Perform and oversee all phases of residential carpentry -- framing, cabinetry, millwork, trim, stairs, windows, doors, and high-end finishes.
• Execute precise installations and custom details while maintaining design intent and resolving construction challenges proactively.
• Plan ahead for materials, labor, and sequencing to ensure project efficiency.
• Identify and submit change orders in partnership with project managers.
• Document progress daily in Buildertrend with accurate logs and photos.
• Track time, receipts, and materials for precise job costing.
• Uphold safety and cleanliness standards, ensuring OSHA and company compliance on every site.
• Mentor and train Carpenter I and II team members, providing hands-on guidance and constructive feedback.
• Perform light demolition or minor trades as needed (e.g., drywall, tile, flooring).
• Maintain consistently high craftsmanship and quality control across all tasks.

Qualifications

• 6 or more years of residential carpentry experience, including structural framing, cabinetry, trim, and finish work.
• Advanced skills in layout, blueprint reading, and installation of high-end finishes.
• Strong leadership, mentoring, and communication skills.
• Proficiency with Buildertrend or similar construction software.
• Valid driver's license, insurable driving record, and reliable transportation capable of hauling tools (vehicle allowance provided).
• OSHA-10 certification preferred.
• Ability to lift up to 90 lbs and work indoors/outdoors in variable conditions.

Pay, Schedule & Benefits

• Full-time W-2 position
• Pay: $33 to $40/hr (non-exempt, overtime eligible after 40 hrs/week)
• Schedule: Four 10-hour days, Monday-Thursday (overtime after 40 hours/week per MI/FLSA).
• Health Insurance: Company covers 80% of employee cost (up to $400/mo) after 90 days; buy-ups available; dependents are optional at employee cost.
• Paid Time Off: PTO accruals starting after 90 days; increases with tenure.
• Paid Holidays: 7 annually after 90 days (New Year's Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, Friday after Thanksgiving, Christmas Day).
• Sick Time: 3 days annually after 90 days.
• 401(k): After 1 year, 4% employer match (vested).
• Vehicle Allowance: Monthly allowance above the hourly rate for qualified carpenters using personal vehicles for work.
• Tools/Equipment: You provide trade-appropriate personal tools; the company provides project-specific supplies/consumables.

How We Hire

• Employment is at-will.
• Offers are contingent on a post-offer background check and driving record review. A past conviction does not automatically disqualify you; we consider the nature and gravity of the offense, its relevance to the job, and time elapsed, consistent with applicable law and business necessity.
• We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. Applicants are considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, national origin, disability, age, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other status protected by law.
• We provide reasonable accommodations throughout the hiring process and on the job. If you need an accommodation, please let us know.

How to Apply

If you're ready to lead by example and take pride in exceptional craftsmanship, send your resume (or work history), a note about where you'll be commuting from, and a few examples of work you're proud of.