Cowdin Design + Build

Carpenter

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

Build spaces worth bragging about.

If you're a solid, well-rounded residential carpenter who takes pride in tight layouts, clean installs, and jobsite professionalism, you'll fit right in here. As a Carpenter with Cowdin Design + Build, you'll handle advanced carpentry tasks and keep projects moving, while mentoring junior teammates and collaborating with project leaders to deliver gorgeous, on-time remodels.

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

• Advanced carpentry: precise framing, finish carpentry, cabinetry installs, doors/windows, drywall/trim; accurate layouts for cabinetry, millwork, flooring, and stairs (including custom work under direction).
• Plan & problem-solve: read drawings, spot irregularities, and troubleshoot on-site while maintaining design intent.
• Materials & readiness: perform basic take-offs, coordinate with supervisors on orders, stage tools/materials, and flag variances in deliveries or plans.
• Lead & mentor: guide Carpenters and Laborers, lead small task groups, and uphold safety and quality standards.
• Documentation: upload progress photos/notes, assist with punch lists/closeout using Buildertrend.
• Tool care & safety: operate table saws, routers, planers, etc., safely; keep tools maintained and jobsites clean, protected, and compliant.

Qualifications

• 4+ years of residential carpentry or remodeling experience, with strong framing and finish skills.
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting construction drawings, blueprints, and specifications; familiarity with construction sequencing and codes.
• Ability to perform precise framing, trim, and finish carpentry, including cabinetry, millwork, doors, windows, and drywall installation/finishing.
• Skilled in accurate layout and measurement for flooring, cabinetry, framing, and built-in elements.
• Experience building custom stair components, built-ins, and detailed finishes under direction or independently.
• Capable of identifying and resolving irregularities in plans or on-site conditions while maintaining design intent and quality standards.
• Strong leadership and mentoring style with clear, professional communication with clients and team members.
• Familiarity with Buildertrend or similar construction management software; smartphone proficiency for site documentation.
• 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 both indoors and outdoors in variable conditions.

Pay, Schedule & Benefits

• Full-time W-2 position
• Pay: $25 to $35/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 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.

Ready to apply?

Send your resume (or work history), a quick note about where you'll be commuting from, and a few lines on recent projects you're proud of. Bonus points for photos or a short list of tools you own and use confidently.