Deck Framer (currently looking for Crew Lead)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Deck Framer (Crew Lead)

Company: Burton Lumber

Location: Salt Lake City, Utah, US

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Construction & Trades / Management & Leadership

Date Posted: 2026-09-28

Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is centered around the physical construction and assembly of decks, requiring hands-on carpentry skills and a strong understanding of framing techniques.

• The position involves a dual work environment, encompassing both shop-based preparation and on-site installation at customer residences.

• A key aspect of this role is the leadership component, where the chosen candidate will function as a Crew Lead, guiding and overseeing a team in deck construction projects.

• Reliable transportation is essential for this position, as daily work will occur at various customer locations across the valley.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Deck Framer," the explicit mention of "currently looking for Crew Lead" indicates a strong emphasis on leadership responsibilities. This suggests the role is not purely an individual contributor framing role but one that involves team supervision and project management on-site. The "2-5 years" experience level aligns with a mid-level position capable of leading a small crew.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a crew of deck builders, ensuring efficient workflow and adherence to project timelines.

• Perform all aspects of deck framing and assembly, including structural components, decking, and railings, adhering to building codes and company standards.

• Execute preparatory work in the company shop, which may include cutting materials, pre-assembling components, and organizing tools and supplies.

• Travel to residential job sites daily via reliable transportation to conduct on-site deck construction and installation.

• Ensure job site safety protocols are followed by the crew and maintain a clean and organized work environment.

• Communicate effectively with customers regarding project progress, addressing any concerns or questions that may arise.

• Maintain inventory of materials and tools on-site and in the shop, reporting any shortages or needs to management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities are inferred from the job description, emphasizing both the hands-on "deck framing" and "deck assembly" aspects, as well as the "Crew Lead" function. The need for "reliable transportation" and "shop work" is directly extracted. The leadership component is further defined by managing a crew and ensuring project efficiency.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred. Vocational training or certifications in carpentry or construction trades are a plus. Experience:

• 2-5 years of demonstrated experience in construction, with a strong focus on deck building and framing.

• Proven experience in a leadership or supervisory role within a construction crew is highly desirable for the Crew Lead aspect of the position. Required Skills:

• Deck Framing & Assembly: Expertise in all phases of deck construction, from foundation to finishing.

• Carpentry Skills: Proficient use of hand and power tools common in carpentry and construction.

• Leadership & Team Management: Ability to direct, motivate, and oversee a small construction crew effectively.

• Reliable Transportation: Possess a dependable vehicle capable of transporting tools and materials to various job sites.

• Safety Consciousness: Strong understanding and adherence to construction site safety regulations.

• Problem-Solving: Ability to identify and resolve construction challenges on-site.

Preferred Skills:

• Blueprint Reading: Ability to interpret construction plans and drawings.

• Material Estimation: Basic understanding of material needs for deck projects.

• Customer Service: Experience interacting with clients and managing expectations.

• Shop Fabrication: Familiarity with pre-assembly and fabrication processes in a workshop setting.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "2-5 years" experience level, combined with the "Crew Lead" designation, suggests a need for both practical trade skills and some level of supervisory capability. Required skills are directly derived from the responsibilities, while preferred skills are inferred to enhance the candidate's suitability for a leadership role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Project Showcase: A portfolio demonstrating completed deck projects, highlighting various styles, materials, and complexities. Visual documentation (photos/videos) of finished decks is crucial.

• Process Documentation: Examples of how you approach a deck construction project from start to finish, including planning, material sourcing, framing techniques, and finishing.

• Leadership Examples: If possible, include examples or descriptions of how you have led teams, managed tasks, and ensured project completion within a construction context.

• Problem/Solution Case Studies: Brief descriptions of construction challenges encountered on deck projects and how they were successfully resolved through practical application of skills or leadership.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design: Ability to outline a logical sequence of operations for deck construction, from initial site assessment to final inspection.

• Quality Control: Examples of how you ensure quality and adherence to standards throughout the construction process, particularly in framing and assembly.

• Team Coordination: Descriptions of how you coordinate tasks among crew members to maximize efficiency and minimize downtime.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated, a Crew Lead role in construction typically benefits from candidates who can visually demonstrate their work and articulate their process. This section is built on the assumption that a portfolio showcasing completed projects and the candidate's approach to work would be highly valued, especially for leadership positions.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $20 - $28 per hour (estimated)

• Methodology: Based on the "2-5 years" experience level, the "Crew Lead" designation, and the Salt Lake City, UT location for skilled trade roles. This range reflects typical hourly wages for experienced carpenters and construction leads in the region. The upper end of the range accounts for leadership responsibilities and potential for higher productivity.

• Note: Actual compensation will be determined by experience, skills, and specific leadership responsibilities.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical coverage for employees.

• Dental Insurance: Dental care benefits.

• 401k: Retirement savings plan with potential company match.

• Paid Time Off: (Inferred) Standard PTO accrual for full-time employees.

• Paid Holidays: (Inferred) Company-recognized holidays.

Working Hours:

• Approximately 40 hours per week.

• Typical construction hours, likely Monday through Friday, with potential for occasional Saturday work depending on project demands. Flexibility may be required to meet project deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on industry benchmarks for similar roles and locations. The provided benefits are explicitly mentioned in the job description. Working hours are inferred to be standard full-time for a construction role.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Building Materials & Construction Services

Company Size: 200-500 Employees (Estimated based on Burton Lumber's known presence and operations)

Founded: 1923 (Over 100 years in business)

Team Structure:

• Operations Team: This role is part of the field operations team responsible for direct customer service and construction delivery.

• Reporting Structure: The Deck Framer/Crew Lead will likely report to a Field Operations Manager or a Branch Manager responsible for construction services.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Will collaborate with shop personnel for material preparation, sales/estimating teams for project details, and potentially other trade crews within Burton Lumber's broader service offerings.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: Focus on delivering high-quality deck construction services that meet customer expectations.

• Efficiency & Productivity: Emphasis on completing projects within established timelines and budgets.

• Safety First: Commitment to maintaining a safe working environment for all employees.

• Teamwork: Encouraging collaboration and mutual support among crew members.

Company Website: https://www.burtonlumber.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Company culture is inferred from Burton Lumber's long history, suggesting a stable, established company with a focus on quality and customer satisfaction. The team structure is typical for a construction services division.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Mid-Level Field Operations / Skilled Trade Leadership

• This role represents a step up from a general deck hand or carpenter, requiring demonstrated proficiency in framing and the ability to lead others. It's a key position for ensuring the successful execution of deck projects on the ground. Reporting Structure:

• Reports to a Field Operations Manager or equivalent, receiving direction on project assignments, priorities, and performance expectations.

• Manages a small crew of deck framers, providing daily guidance and task delegation. Operations Impact:

• Directly impacts customer satisfaction and Burton Lumber's reputation for quality deck construction.

• Efficient project execution contributes to profitability and timely completion of revenue-generating services.

• Acts as a frontline representative of the company to homeowners. Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Deck Framer/Lead Carpenter: Continued progression in hands-on skills and project leadership.

• Foreman/Superintendent: Advancement into managing larger crews and multiple projects simultaneously.

• Operations Management: Potential to move into roles overseeing field operations, scheduling, or estimating.

• Specialization: Opportunity to specialize in complex deck designs, custom structures, or other carpentry specialties.

📝 Enhancement Note: Growth paths are outlined based on typical career progression within construction trades and operations management, leveraging the existing experience and leadership potential of the role.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid (Shop & Field)

• The role involves a blend of workshop-based activities and extensive on-site work at residential locations. Office Location(s):

• Shop: Burton Lumber facility in Salt Lake City, UT (specific address not provided).

• Field: Various residential customer sites throughout the Salt Lake Valley and surrounding areas.

Workspace Context:

• Shop Environment: Tasks may include material staging, cutting, and pre-assembly in a workshop setting, often sharing space with other trade professionals.

• On-Site Environment: Primarily outdoor work at residential properties, exposed to various weather conditions. Requires adaptability to different site layouts and homeowner interactions.

• Team Interaction: Close daily interaction with the assigned deck crew, fostering a collaborative and communicative work dynamic. Regular communication with management for project updates and support.

Work Schedule:

• Standard full-time construction hours, typically Monday to Friday, approximately 40 hours per week.

• Flexibility may be required to accommodate project timelines, weather delays, or customer availability, potentially including some weekend work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is described as a combination of indoor shop work and outdoor field work, reflecting the dual nature of the responsibilities.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of application and resume for relevant experience and qualifications.

• In-Person Interview: Discussion with hiring manager to assess experience, leadership potential, problem-solving skills, and cultural fit. This may include a practical demonstration or Q&A about deck construction methods.

• Portfolio Review: Candidates will be asked to present their portfolio, showcasing past deck projects and explaining their role and process.

• Reference Checks: Verification of employment history and performance with previous employers.

• On-Site Assessment (Potential): For Crew Lead candidates, a brief on-site assessment or trial period might be considered.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Visual Impact: Ensure high-quality photos or videos of completed decks that highlight your craftsmanship. Include before-and-after shots if available.

• Process Explanation: Be prepared to walk through the steps of a typical deck construction project, from initial measurements to final touches.

• Leadership Scenarios: For the Crew Lead aspect, be ready to discuss how you delegate tasks, motivate a team, and handle conflicts or performance issues.

• Problem-Solving Examples: Detail specific construction challenges you've faced and your solutions. Quantify results where possible (e.g., "reduced waste by X%," "completed project Y days ahead of schedule").

• Company Alignment: Research Burton Lumber's values and services to articulate how your skills and approach align with their mission.

Challenge Preparation:

• Practical Skills Test: Be prepared for a hands-on demonstration of basic carpentry and framing techniques, or a detailed discussion of them.

• Scenario-Based Questions: Expect questions related to managing a crew, handling difficult customers, or solving common deck construction problems.

• Leadership Scenarios: Prepare to answer questions about your leadership style, how you ensure safety, and your methods for motivating a team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview and portfolio process is structured based on common practices for skilled trade roles with leadership components, emphasizing practical skills, problem-solving, and team management.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Hand Tools: Hammers, tape measures, levels, chisels, handsaws, utility knives.

• Power Tools: Circular saws, miter saws, reciprocating saws, drills, impact drivers, nail guns (framing, finishing).

• Measuring & Layout Tools: Speed squares, framing squares, chalk lines, laser levels.

• Safety Equipment: Hard hats, safety glasses, work gloves, safety vests, fall protection (if applicable).

• Fasteners & Adhesives: Various nails, screws, construction adhesives.

Analytics & Reporting: (Limited application for this role)

• While not a tech-heavy role, basic record-keeping might involve:
  • Time Tracking Software: For logging hours on job sites.
  • Basic Mobile Apps: For communication or site notes.

CRM & Automation: (Not directly applicable for this role)

• This role is primarily field-based and does not typically involve direct use of CRM or advanced automation systems. However, understanding how their work feeds into the company's broader operational systems is beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: The tools and technology are specific to the construction and carpentry trade, reflecting the hands-on nature of the job. CRM and advanced analytics are noted as not typically being part of this specific role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Quality Craftsmanship: A deep commitment to building durable, aesthetically pleasing decks that meet high standards.

• Reliability: Being dependable for both job site attendance and project completion.

• Teamwork & Support: Working collaboratively with crew members, offering assistance, and sharing knowledge.

• Customer Satisfaction: Prioritizing homeowner needs and ensuring a positive experience.

• Efficiency: Striving to complete tasks effectively and on schedule.

Collaboration Style:

• Hands-On Leadership: The Crew Lead will be actively involved in the work alongside the team, not just supervising from a distance.

• Direct Communication: Open and clear communication among crew members regarding tasks, safety, and progress.

• Problem-Solving Together: Encouraging team input to solve construction challenges.

• Respectful Environment: Fostering a workplace where all team members feel valued and respected.

📝 Enhancement Note: Team culture and values are inferred from the nature of a long-standing construction company and the responsibilities of a field crew lead, emphasizing practical skills, reliability, and teamwork.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Weather Variability: Working outdoors means adapting to diverse and sometimes challenging weather conditions (heat, cold, rain, snow).

• Site Accessibility & Constraints: Dealing with varying property layouts, access limitations, and homeowner restrictions.

• Material Management: Ensuring timely availability of correct materials and managing waste efficiently.

• Team Dynamics: Effectively managing different personalities and skill levels within a crew to maintain productivity and morale.

• Balancing Speed and Quality: Meeting project deadlines while maintaining the highest standards of craftsmanship.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Framing Techniques: Learning specialized or complex framing methods for custom decks.

• Material Knowledge: Expanding understanding of different decking materials (wood types, composites, hardwoods) and their installation requirements.

• Leadership Development: Gaining experience in team management, conflict resolution, and project planning.

• Safety Certifications: Opportunities to obtain or renew safety training and certifications.

• Cross-Training: Potential exposure to other carpentry or construction aspects within Burton Lumber.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges are typical for field construction roles, and growth opportunities are tailored to advancing within the carpentry and construction trades, with a focus on leadership and specialized skills.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your experience leading a construction crew. What is your approach to delegating tasks and ensuring everyone is on track?"

• "Walk me through your process for framing a standard deck, from site prep to final railing installation."

• "Tell me about a time you encountered a significant construction challenge on a deck project. How did you solve it, and what was the outcome?"

• "How do you ensure safety on a job site, especially when working with a team in varied conditions?"

• "What are your strategies for communicating with homeowners throughout a project?" Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working for Burton Lumber, a company with over 100 years of history?"

• "How do you align with our company values of quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction?"

• "Describe your ideal work environment and team dynamic." Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or chronologically. Start with your strongest examples.

• Storytelling: For each project, briefly explain the client's needs, your role, the challenges faced, the solutions implemented, and the final result.

• Quantify Impact: If possible, mention project timelines, material savings, or customer feedback to demonstrate impact.

• Crew Lead Focus: Highlight instances where you demonstrated leadership, problem-solving, or effective team coordination.

• Be Prepared for Q&A: Anticipate questions about your techniques, decision-making, and experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview questions are designed to assess practical skills, leadership capabilities, problem-solving abilities, and cultural fit, with a direct link to the role's responsibilities and company context.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Deck Framer (Crew Lead) position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Burton Lumber applicant portal.

• Portfolio Preparation: Curate a portfolio that clearly showcases your deck framing and assembly projects. Include high-resolution photos or videos of completed work, highlighting your craftsmanship and any complex designs.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume details your construction experience, specifically mentioning deck building, framing, and any leadership or supervisory roles. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Interview Practice: Prepare to discuss your hands-on skills, leadership approach, and problem-solving strategies. Practice articulating your process for deck construction and team management.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Burton Lumber's history, services, and reputation to demonstrate your interest and alignment with their values during the interview.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with Burton Lumber before making application decisions.