Bonsai builders
Carpenter Apprentice
Posted · Last seen
About this job
Benefits:
Company parties
Competitive salary
Dental insurance
Free uniforms
Health insurance
Training & development
Vision insurance
Purpose
The Apprentice Carpenter supports the field team while developing the technical skills, craftsmanship, professionalism, and leadership qualities required to become an exceptional carpenter. Working alongside the Working Project Manager, Lead Carpenter, and Carpenters, this position combines hands-on experience with structured learning to build a long-term career in residential remodeling.
Mission: Develop exceptional craftsmen through mentorship, continuous learning, hard work, and a commitment to excellence.
Apprentice Philosophy
At Bonsai, we are not simply hiring laborers—we are developing future craftsmen, Lead Carpenters, and Working Project Managers. An Apprentice is not expected to know everything, but is expected to show up on time, work hard, ask questions, accept coaching, maintain a positive attitude, and improve every day. Skill can be taught. Character cannot.
Position Summary
Reporting to the Lead Carpenter, the Apprentice Carpenter assists with residential remodeling projects while learning Bonsai's systems, quality standards, safety expectations, and construction techniques. Responsibilities include jobsite preparation, material handling, demolition, cleanup, tool organization, and progressively more advanced carpentry tasks as skills develop.
Core Responsibilities
Learning & Development
Learn residential construction methods and Bonsai standards.
Learn proper tool use, blueprint reading, and safety procedures.
Seek feedback and ask questions.
Practice new skills daily.
Jobsite Support
Prepare work areas.
Load and unload materials.
Organize tools and equipment.
Maintain clean and safe jobsites.
Protect homeowner property.
Basic Carpentry
Assist with demolition, framing, blocking, insulation, drywall repairs, trim, cabinet installation, flooring, and painting preparation as skills develop.
Safety
Follow all company safety policies.
Wear required PPE.
Report hazards immediately.
Help maintain a safe work environment.
Professionalism
Arrive on time and prepared.
Communicate respectfully.
Maintain a positive attitude.
Represent Bonsai professionally.
Decision-Making Authority
Stop unsafe work and report hazards.
Ask questions whenever uncertain.
Recommend improvements.
Report quality concerns.
Request additional training.
Key Performance Indicators
Attendance
Punctuality
Dependability
Preparedness
Learning
Skill progression
Coachability
Initiative
Willingness to learn
Productivity
Task completion
Efficiency
Tool organization
Material management
Teamwork
Communication
Respect
Attitude
Cooperation
Safety
PPE compliance
Housekeeping
Safety awareness
Required Competencies
Strong work ethic
Positive attitude
Desire to learn
Mechanical aptitude
Reliability
Teamwork
Communication skills
Attention to detail
Ability to perform physical work
Preferred Qualifications
Basic construction or shop experience
Basic hand tool knowledge
High school diploma or equivalent
Valid driver's license
OSHA 10 certification (preferred but not required)
Department Relationships
Reports to: Lead Carpenter
Works closely with the Working Project Manager, Lead Carpenter, Carpenters, subcontractors, and other Apprentices.
Daily / Weekly / Monthly Responsibilities
Daily
Arrive prepared and on time.
Assist the crew.
Organize materials and tools.
Maintain jobsite cleanliness.
Learn new skills.
Ask questions.
Weekly
Review progress with the Lead Carpenter.
Practice new skills.
Improve efficiency.
Organize equipment.
Monthly
Review development goals.
Complete training assignments.
Meet with supervisor to discuss progress.
30 / 60 / 90 / 180 Day Expectations
First 30 Days
Learn safety procedures.
Learn company expectations.
Learn tool names.
Demonstrate reliability.
First 60 Days
Assist with demolition.
Perform basic layout.
Assist with framing.
Read simple plans.
First 90 Days
Complete basic framing tasks.
Install simple trim.
Assist cabinet installation.
Understand project sequencing.
First 180 Days
Complete many tasks independently.
Demonstrate Bonsai quality standards.
Performance Standards
Shows continuous improvement.
Works safely.
Maintains professionalism.
Supports teammates.
Protects client property.
Demonstrates initiative and dependability.
Definition of Success
The Apprentice Carpenter succeeds by steadily developing the knowledge, skills, habits, and professionalism required to become a skilled Carpenter at Bonsai. Through hard work, curiosity, coachability, and pride in craftsmanship, the Apprentice contributes positively to every project while building a rewarding long-term career.
Craftsman's Commitment
I will arrive prepared. I will work safely. I will respect my teammates and our clients. I will take pride in my work. I will continue learning every day. I will accept coaching with humility. I will leave every project better than I found it. Above all, I will protect the reputation of Bonsai through my actions, my attitude, and my commitment to excellence.