Framer Carpenter

S.R. Freeman
Full-time$25-35/hour (USD)San Francisco, United States

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Framer Carpenter

Company: S.R. Freeman, Inc.

Location: San Francisco, California, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Construction & Trades

Date Posted: April 16, 2026

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

  • Execute high-end residential framing and finish carpentry to exacting standards, ensuring project success for discerning general contractors and homeowners.

  • Actively participate in team-based problem-solving and continuous improvement initiatives, contributing to a culture of mutual respect and professional development.

  • Uphold rigorous safety protocols and company policies, ensuring a secure and compliant work environment on all job sites.

  • Leverage a strong understanding of construction methodologies, including floor, wall, and roof system construction, to deliver quality craftsmanship.

  • Maintain and utilize a basic compliment of personal tools, alongside company-provided equipment, for efficient project execution.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Framer Carpenter," the description clearly indicates a need for both framing and finish carpentry skills, along with some exposure to other trades. The role also emphasizes a forward-thinking company culture focused on growth and employee input, suggesting it's more than just a traditional trade position.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

  • Construct and assemble floor, wall, and roof systems for custom residential projects, adhering to blueprint specifications and company standards.

  • Perform interior and exterior wall sheeting, ensuring proper installation and structural integrity.

  • Prepare concrete forms and assist with pouring concrete foundations, demonstrating foundational concrete work knowledge.

  • Execute layout and framing for walls, including the precise installation of headers and mudsills.

  • Conduct floor joist layout and installation, ensuring accurate measurements and structural support.

  • Frame doors and windows, demonstrating proficiency in creating openings and installing necessary components.

  • Install ceiling joists and build forms as required for various construction elements.

  • Assist in building stairs, working under the guidance of a Journeyman carpenter to develop advanced skills.

  • Perform basic roof framing tasks, contributing to the structural integrity of the building envelope.

  • Operate and maintain power tools such as Skilsaw and Sawzall safely and effectively.

  • Utilize leveling tools to ensure accuracy and precision in all framing and construction activities.

  • Learn and execute the installation of girders and floor joists, expanding knowledge of structural components.

  • Adhere strictly to all safety rules, regulations, and company policies to maintain a safe work environment.

  • Maintain positive working relationships with co-workers and supervisors, fostering a collaborative team atmosphere.

  • Perform other assigned duties and tasks as directed by the Carpenter Foreman, demonstrating flexibility and a willingness to contribute across various project needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities list is extensive and reflects a hands-on, skilled trade role. It highlights a blend of core framing duties with exposure to other construction tasks, suggesting a valuable opportunity for a carpenter looking to broaden their skill set within high-end residential construction.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

  • Minimum of 4 years of experience in residential framing and finish carpentry.

Required Skills:

  • Proficient in residential framing techniques for floor, wall, and roof systems.

  • Skilled in finish carpentry, contributing to the aesthetic and functional completion of residential projects.

  • Ability to read and accurately interpret basic blueprints for construction planning and execution.

  • Precise measurement skills using a tape measure and other measuring tools.

  • Competent in lumber handling, including cutting and managing raw lumber for framing purposes.

  • Experience with operating Skilsaw and Sawzall safely and efficiently.

  • Understanding and ability to use leveling tools accurately.

  • Knowledge of framing doors, windows, headers, and mudsills.

  • Ability to build forms for concrete work.

  • Basic understanding of roof framing principles.

  • Familiarity with safety rules and regulations in a construction environment.

  • Ability to maintain a good working relationship with co-workers and supervisors.

  • Strong English communication skills for receiving instructions and collaborating with team members.

Preferred Skills:

  • Experience in assisting with concrete foundation work, including form preparation and pouring.

  • Aptitude for performing minor electrical or plumbing tasks as needed.

  • Ability to learn and execute advanced stair building techniques.

  • Experience with sheeting interior and exterior walls.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize practical, hands-on skills crucial for residential carpentry. The inclusion of basic blueprint reading and tool proficiency is standard, but the explicit mention of specific tools like Skilsaw and Sawzall, along with the necessity of a personal toolset, provides a clear picture of the expected technical readiness. The emphasis on communication in English is also a critical, practical requirement for on-site collaboration.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

  • Demonstrations of completed residential framing projects, showcasing structural integrity and adherence to architectural plans.

  • Examples of finish carpentry work, highlighting precision, detailing, and aesthetic quality.

  • Case studies or photographic evidence of complex framing elements constructed, such as custom rooflines or intricate wall systems.

Process Documentation:

  • Visual documentation (photos/videos) of framing processes, from initial layout to final sheeting.

  • Examples of how blueprints were interpreted and translated into physical construction elements.

  • Documentation of lumber utilization and waste reduction strategies on projects.

  • Evidence of collaboration with foremen or supervisors on problem-solving and task execution.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a carpentry role, a traditional "portfolio" may differ from office-based roles. The emphasis here is on showcasing practical skills through visual evidence of completed work and demonstrated process understanding. Candidates should be prepared to visually represent their capabilities and problem-solving approaches on-site.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

  • 401(k) retirement savings plan.

  • Dental insurance coverage.

  • Comprehensive health insurance.

Working Hours:

  • Standard full-time hours, typically 40 hours per week, with potential for overtime based on project demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: The estimated salary range of $25-$35 per hour for a skilled Framer Carpenter in San Francisco reflects the high cost of living and the demand for experienced tradespeople in the region. This range is benchmarked against local industry data for similar roles requiring 4+ years of experience and specific trade skills. The benefits package is standard for a full-time position in the US construction industry.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: High-end Residential Construction. S.R. Freeman, Inc. specializes in delivering premium construction services, indicating a focus on quality, craftsmanship, and client satisfaction within the competitive San Francisco Bay Area market.

Company Size: Small to medium-sized enterprise, likely allowing for closer team interaction and a more direct impact from individual contributions. This size often fosters a collaborative environment where employees can influence processes.

Founded: Information not explicitly provided, but the company's established presence suggests a stable operational history and a developed understanding of the residential construction market.

Team Structure:

  • The role reports to a Carpenter Foreman, indicating a clear line of supervision and project management.

  • Team members are expected to collaborate closely with co-workers and supervisors, fostering a supportive and communicative work environment.

Methodology:

  • Emphasis on mutual respect, continuous improvement, and teamwork as core operational tenets.

  • A commitment to teaching and coaching team members, providing opportunities for skill development and career growth.

  • Encouragement of employee input, suggesting a culture that values innovative ideas and employee-driven process enhancements.

Company Website: https://srfreemaninc.bamboohr.com/careers

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is described as a significant differentiator, emphasizing not just skilled execution but also personal growth, teamwork, and employee input. This suggests S.R. Freeman is looking for individuals who are not only technically proficient but also culturally aligned with a forward-thinking, collaborative workplace.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a skilled tradesperson (Journeyman Carpenter level, with potential for advancement to Foreman). It requires a solid foundation of practical experience and the ability to work independently on assigned tasks while contributing to team objectives.

Reporting Structure: Reports directly to a Carpenter Foreman, who provides direction, oversight, and feedback. This structure ensures clear accountability and support for day-to-day operations.

Operations Impact: Directly impacts project quality, efficiency, and timelines through skilled execution of framing and carpentry tasks. The carpenter's work forms the structural and aesthetic foundation of high-end residential projects, contributing significantly to client satisfaction and the company's reputation.

Growth Opportunities:

  • Skill Development: Opportunities to learn and master advanced framing techniques, finish carpentry details, and potentially other construction trades (e.g., concrete, minor electrical/plumbing) through hands-on experience and coaching from foremen.

  • Leadership Potential: With demonstrated proficiency, reliability, and leadership qualities, there is potential to advance into a Carpenter Foreman position, leading teams and managing projects.

  • Project Variety: Exposure to a range of custom residential projects, allowing for diverse experience and the development of adaptability in different construction scenarios.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth trajectory for a carpenter in this role is clearly defined: from a skilled individual contributor to potentially leading teams. The company's stated commitment to teaching and coaching is a key indicator of genuine development opportunities beyond just the daily tasks.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a field-based role, primarily working on active construction job sites. The "office" is dynamic and varies based on the ongoing residential projects.

Office Location(s): Primarily in San Francisco, California, with work performed at various residential construction sites within the city and potentially surrounding areas.

Workspace Context:

  • Work environments are active construction sites, which can involve varying weather conditions, noise levels, and physical demands.

  • Access to a "basic compliment of tools" is required, indicating a need for personal organization and preparedness.

Work Schedule:

  • Full-time, likely Monday through Friday, with potential for weekend work or overtime depending on project deadlines and demands. The standard 40 hours per week is the baseline.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is typical for a skilled trade role within construction – dynamic, physically demanding, and on-site. The emphasis on safety and adherence to company policies is critical given the nature of construction sites.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

  • Initial Screening: Review of application and resume to assess experience, skills, and alignment with basic requirements.

  • Skills Assessment/Practical Test: Potentially a hands-on demonstration of carpentry skills on-site, or a detailed discussion about past projects and problem-solving scenarios. This may involve reading blueprints and performing basic measurements or cuts.

  • Foreman/Manager Interview: Discussion about experience, work ethic, safety practices, tool proficiency, and cultural fit with S.R. Freeman's team-oriented approach.

  • Reference Checks: Verification of previous employment and performance.

Portfolio Review Tips:

  • Visual Evidence: Prepare clear, high-quality photos or videos of completed framing and finish carpentry work. Focus on detail, precision, and structural elements.

  • Project Descriptions: For each project, briefly describe the scope, your role, challenges faced, and solutions implemented. Highlight specific techniques used.

  • Blueprint Interpretation: Be ready to discuss how you read and interpret blueprints, and how you apply that knowledge on-site.

  • Tool Proficiency: Be prepared to detail the tools you own and are proficient with, and how you maintain them.

  • Safety Focus: Include examples or discuss your approach to safety on job sites.

Challenge Preparation:

  • Blueprint Reading Exercise: Practice reading and interpreting common residential construction blueprints, identifying key dimensions, structural elements, and specifications.

  • Measurement Accuracy: Be prepared for a practical test involving accurate measurement and marking of lumber.

  • Problem-Solving Scenarios: Think about common challenges in framing and carpentry (e.g., site conditions, material issues, design discrepancies) and how you would address them constructively.

  • Safety Protocol Discussion: Be ready to discuss your understanding of OSHA regulations or general construction site safety best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a carpentry role, the "portfolio" is less about polished documents and more about demonstrating practical skill and knowledge. Candidates should be ready to show their work and discuss their process, safety consciousness, and problem-solving abilities in a tangible way.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

  • Personal Toolbelt & Hand Tools: Carpenters are required to have a basic compliment of their own tools, which typically include:

    • Various hammers (framing hammer, claw hammer)
    • Measuring tapes (e.g., 25ft, 35ft)
    • Speed squares, combination squares
    • Levels (e.g., torpedo level, 4ft level)
    • Pencils, marking knives
    • Utility knives
    • Chisels
    • Nail sets
    • Pry bars
  • Power Tools (Company Provided or Personal):

    • Circular Saw (e.g., Skilsaw)
    • Reciprocating Saw (e.g., Sawzall)
    • Jigsaw
    • Nail guns (framing, finishing)
    • Miter Saw (potentially provided by company or foreman)
  • Safety Equipment: Hard hat, safety glasses, work boots, gloves, potentially fall protection gear.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

  • Not applicable for this role.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack for this role is primarily focused on the physical tools of the trade. The explicit requirement for a "basic compliment of tools" means candidates must be self-sufficient with essential hand and power tools. Understanding the specific tools mentioned (Skilsaw, Sawzall) is key.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

  • Mutual Respect: Valuing the contributions and perspectives of all team members, fostering a positive and inclusive work environment.

  • Improvement: A commitment to continuous learning and skill enhancement, both individually and as a team, striving for higher quality and efficiency.

  • Teamwork: Emphasizing collaboration, shared responsibility, and collective problem-solving to achieve project goals.

  • Responsibility: Taking ownership of assigned tasks, adhering to safety standards, and delivering high-quality work consistently.

  • Ambition & Energy: Seeking individuals who are proactive, motivated, and eager to take on challenges and contribute actively to project success.

Collaboration Style:

  • Direct & Hands-on: Collaboration occurs primarily on the job site, involving direct communication and shared work on construction tasks.

  • Mentorship-Driven: Encourages learning from experienced foremen and colleagues, with a focus on skill transfer and best practice adoption.

  • Feedback-Oriented: Openness to feedback for continuous improvement, both in technical skills and teamwork.

📝 Enhancement Note: S.R. Freeman's culture is a significant emphasis. The values of mutual respect, improvement, and teamwork suggest a company that invests in its people and seeks individuals who are not only skilled but also good team players committed to growth.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

  • Physical Demands: The role requires significant physical stamina, including lifting heavy materials (up to 100 lbs), working at heights, and performing repetitive tasks in various weather conditions.

  • Precision and Accuracy: Maintaining high levels of accuracy in measurements and cuts is critical for structural integrity and aesthetic finish, demanding constant attention to detail.

  • Problem-Solving on Site: Addressing unexpected site conditions, material issues, or design discrepancies requires quick thinking and practical solutions.

  • Adapting to Different Projects: Each custom residential project may present unique challenges, requiring adaptability and a broad skill set.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

  • Advanced Carpentry Skills: Opportunity to master complex framing techniques, custom millwork, and intricate finish details.

  • Cross-Trade Exposure: Potential to gain experience in related construction trades, broadening overall construction knowledge.

  • Leadership Development: For high performers, there's a clear pathway to becoming a Carpenter Foreman, involving project oversight, team leadership, and client interaction.

  • Industry Best Practices: Learning and applying current best practices in residential construction through mentorship and hands-on experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges inherent in skilled trades roles are present, but S.R. Freeman frames them as opportunities for growth. The company's emphasis on teaching and coaching suggests a supportive environment for overcoming these challenges and developing professionally.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

  • "Describe a complex framing challenge you encountered on a residential project and how you overcame it." (Focus on problem-solving, technical skill, and resourcefulness.)

  • "How do you ensure accuracy when working with blueprints and measurements on a framing project?" (Highlight attention to detail, use of tools, and understanding of plans.)

  • "Walk me through your process for framing a standard residential wall, from layout to sheeting." (Demonstrate knowledge of sequence, materials, and techniques.)

Company & Culture Questions:

  • "What appeals to you about S.R. Freeman's company culture, particularly our focus on mutual respect and continuous improvement?" (Connect your values to theirs.)

  • "How do you contribute to a team environment on a construction site?" (Provide examples of collaboration and support for colleagues.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

  • Highlight Key Projects: Focus on 2-3 projects that best showcase your framing and finish carpentry skills, particularly those involving custom or high-end elements.

  • Visuals are Key: Use clear, well-lit photos or short video clips that highlight the quality of your work. Point out specific details, structural components, and finished aesthetics.

  • Explain Your Role: Clearly articulate your specific contributions to each project.

  • Quantify if Possible: Mention scale of projects (e.g., square footage, number of units) or any efficiency improvements you contributed.

  • Be Ready for On-Site Assessment: Understand that a practical demonstration of skills or a site visit might be part of the evaluation.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation for a carpentry role should focus on practical application, safety, and cultural fit. Candidates should be ready to discuss their hands-on experience, demonstrate problem-solving skills, and articulate how they align with the company's values of teamwork and continuous improvement.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Framer Carpenter position:

  • Submit your application and resume through the S.R. Freeman, Inc. careers portal at https://srfreemaninc.bamboohr.com/careers.

  • Portfolio Preparation: Gather high-quality photographs or videos of your best residential framing and finish carpentry work. Be ready to discuss specific projects, your role, challenges, and solutions.

  • Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly details your years of experience in residential framing and finish carpentry, lists specific skills (e.g., blueprint reading, tool proficiency), and highlights any relevant certifications or training.

  • Interview Preparation: Practice answering common carpentry interview questions, focusing on safety, technical skills, problem-solving, and teamwork. Prepare to discuss your understanding of blueprints and your personal tool inventory.

  • Company Research: Familiarize yourself with S.R. Freeman, Inc.'s focus on high-end residential construction and their stated company culture of mutual respect, improvement, and teamwork.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and industry-standard assumptions. While efforts have been made to provide comprehensive and relevant details for a Framer Carpenter role, all specific requirements, compensation details, and application procedures should be verified directly with S.R. Freeman, Inc. before making application decisions.

Application Requirements

Candidates must have at least 4 years of experience in residential carpentry and be physically capable of lifting 100 pounds. A valid California driver's license, the ability to read blueprints, and a basic set of tools are required.