Lead Carpenter

Position Title: Lead Carpenter

Department: Housing
Location: We'koqma'q First Nation
Position Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Reports To: Director, Housing

Build More Than Homes. Build Community.

We'koqma'q First Nation is seeking an experienced and motivated Lead Carpenter to oversee and participate in construction, renovation, repair, and maintenance projects within the community.

The Lead Carpenter will provide leadership to housing staff, apprentices, labourers, and contractors while helping ensure community housing and infrastructure are safe, functional, and well maintained. This position is ideal for an experienced tradesperson who is committed to quality workmanship, mentoring others, and supporting the long-term sustainability of community housing.

Key Responsibilities

Construction and Carpentry

• Lead and participate in residential and community construction projects.
• Perform skilled carpentry work, including framing, roofing, siding, flooring, drywall, finishing, cabinetry, and general repairs.
• Read and interpret blueprints, drawings, and project specifications.
• Coordinate construction activities to meet project schedules and deadlines.
• Estimate material requirements and assist with procurement planning.
• Ensure all work is completed in accordance with applicable building codes and quality standards.

Leadership and Supervision

• Provide direction and oversight to carpenters, apprentices, labourers, and contractors.
• Assign work, monitor progress, and ensure quality standards are maintained.
• Mentor and train staff and community members interested in developing construction and trades skills.
• Foster a safe, respectful, and productive work environment.
• Support workforce planning and project scheduling.

Maintenance and Repairs

• Conduct inspections of housing units and community facilities.
• Identify maintenance and repair needs and develop plans to address them.
• Perform preventative maintenance and repairs to community assets.
• Respond to urgent and emergency repair situations as required.
• Maintain accurate records of completed work and materials used.

Safety and Compliance

• Ensure compliance with Occupational Health and Safety legislation and safe work practices.
• Conduct job-site safety inspections and address hazards promptly.
• Ensure proper use of tools, equipment, and personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Promote a culture of safety among staff and contractors.

Administration

• Assist with project planning, budgeting, and scheduling.
• Track inventory, materials, and equipment.
• Prepare reports and project documentation.
• Obtain quotes and coordinate work with suppliers and contractors as required.

Qualifications

Required

• Minimum five (5) years of progressively responsible carpentry experience.
• Previous supervisory or leadership experience.
• Strong knowledge of residential and commercial construction practices.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, plans, and specifications.
• Thorough understanding of building codes, construction standards, and safety requirements.
• Strong problem-solving, organizational, and decision-making skills.
• Valid Nova Scotia Driver's Licence.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Preferred

• Journeyperson Carpenter Certification.
• Experience mentoring apprentices or trades workers.
• Knowledge of Mi'kmaw culture and community values.
• Experience working in Indigenous communities.

What We're Looking For

The successful candidate will demonstrate:

• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Commitment to quality workmanship and community service.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities.
• Sound judgment and attention to detail.
• Professionalism, reliability, and accountability.
• A commitment to supporting the development of local trades capacity.

Working Conditions

This position involves working in residential, commercial, and outdoor construction environments. Duties require lifting, carrying, climbing, bending, and operating hand and power tools. The successful candidate must be comfortable working in varying weather conditions and responding to urgent maintenance and repair needs.

What We Offer

• Competitive compensation based on qualifications, experience, and demonstrated competencies.
• Comprehensive employee benefits package.
• Paid time off.

Why Join Us?

This is an opportunity to make a lasting impact on the quality of housing and infrastructure within We'koqma'q First Nation. The Lead Carpenter plays an important role in improving community assets, developing local skills, and helping create safe and sustainable homes for community members.

How to Apply

Interested candidates are invited to submit a cover letter and resume by 5:00 PM on November 16, 2026.

We'koqma'q First Nation is committed to employment equity and encourages applications from qualified candidates of all backgrounds. Preference may be given to qualified We'koqma'q community members and Indigenous applicants.