Lead Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Lead Framer

Company: D.R. Horton, Inc.

Location: Rochester Hills, Michigan, United States

Job Type: Part-time

Category: Construction & Trades / Management & Leadership

Date Posted: 2026-07-28

Experience Level: 4+ Years Residential Framing/Carpentry

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Serve as a technical lead for framing crews, guiding and instructing team members on advanced residential framing techniques and safe work practices.

• Execute high-quality residential framing tasks, including the precise layout and construction of walls, floors, roofs, and other structural components according to blueprints and specifications.

• Collaborate closely with the Framing Foreman to coordinate daily activities, sequence tasks efficiently, and communicate production priorities to ensure project timelines are met.

• Uphold rigorous safety standards and reinforce company policies on job sites, ensuring all team members adhere to proper personal protective equipment (PPE) usage and safe tool operation.

• Contribute to the overall project success by supporting quality inspections, assisting with punch-list corrections, and ensuring the completion of framing work to exacting standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is identified as "Part-time" but the responsibilities and the nature of construction work often require full-time dedication, including potential overtime. Candidates should clarify expected hours and flexibility. The experience level has been inferred from the "four or more years of residential framing or carpentry experience" requirement.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Execute advanced residential framing work, encompassing the layout, construction, and assembly of structural elements such as walls, floors, roofs, and openings with precision and adherence to building codes.

• Interpret complex construction drawings, blueprints, specifications, and framing layouts to accurately translate designs into physical structures, ensuring all dimensions and details are correctly implemented.

• Provide direct technical instruction, hands-on guidance, and mentorship to Framers and Apprentice Framers, focusing on best practices in framing methodology, efficient tool usage, quality expectations, and safety protocols.

• Proactively identify and communicate any framing discrepancies, material defects, or construction challenges to the Framing Foreman to facilitate timely problem-solving and prevent workflow disruptions.

• Conduct thorough verifications of measurements, alignment, plumb, level, fastening integrity, and the overall installation of framing components before subsequent construction phases proceed, ensuring a solid foundation for subsequent trades.

• Actively participate in material inventory, staging, and preparation activities, ensuring the right materials are available on-site when needed to maintain a continuous and efficient framing operation.

• Support and participate in quality control inspections and punch-list resolution processes, accurately addressing any identified defects or required corrections to ensure final framing quality meets D.R. Horton's standards.

• Uphold and enforce all company safety procedures, jobsite regulations, and the correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE), fostering a safety-conscious culture within the framing crew.

• Maintain all tools, equipment, materials, and work areas in a safe, organized, and productive condition, contributing to an efficient and hazard-free work environment.

• Perform other duties as assigned by the Framing Foreman, demonstrating flexibility and a willingness to support broader project needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a blend of hands-on skilled labor and leadership, aligning with a "Lead" role. The expectation of interpreting "DRH applications" suggests a potential use of company-specific software for tasks, which applicants should be prepared for.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High School Diploma or GED required. Experience:

• Minimum of four (4) years of progressive experience in residential framing or carpentry.

• Previous experience providing day-to-day direction or technical guidance to a residential framing crew is strongly preferred.

• Experience in production residential homebuilding is preferred, indicating familiarity with high-volume construction environments. Required Skills:

• Advanced knowledge of residential wood-frame construction methods and framing techniques.

• Proficient ability to read and interpret residential construction drawings, layouts, dimensions, and specifications accurately.

• Demonstrated skill in the safe and efficient operation of framing hand tools, power tools, and applicable construction equipment.

• Physical capability to perform the rigorous demands of residential framing, including standing, walking, climbing, bending, lifting (up to a specified weight, typically 50 lbs), carrying, reaching, and working at heights and in various weather conditions.

• Strong understanding of safety procedures and jobsite requirements, with a commitment to proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).

• Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written and oral form, and via DRH applications.

• Excellent attention to detail for verifying measurements, alignment, plumb, and level. Preferred Skills:

• OSHA 10 certification.

• Familiarity with D.R. Horton's specific construction standards and processes.

• Experience in material inventory management and staging for efficient workflow.

• Proven ability to troubleshoot and resolve framing discrepancies and construction concerns.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "4+ years" experience level is derived from the explicit requirement for "four or more years of residential framing or carpentry experience." The preferred qualifications highlight a desire for leadership experience and specific industry certifications.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Documentation of complex framing projects, showcasing the successful execution of structural components from layout to completion.

• Visual evidence (photos, videos) of framing quality, precision, and adherence to blueprints, demonstrating attention to detail in measurements, plumb, and level.

• Examples of problem-solving scenarios encountered in framing projects and the implemented solutions, highlighting technical leadership and decision-making capabilities.

• Documentation of safety protocols followed on projects, including any contributions to safety improvements or adherence to specific safety guidelines. Process Documentation:

• Ability to describe the standard workflow for residential framing, from initial site preparation and layout to final structural assembly.

• Experience in sequencing framing activities to optimize efficiency and coordinate with other trades.

• Understanding of how to verify work against construction drawings and specifications, ensuring accuracy at each stage.

• Familiarity with the process of identifying, documenting, and resolving framing discrepancies or material issues.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal portfolio might not be explicitly requested for this trade role, candidates are strongly advised to prepare examples of their work and problem-solving skills, especially concerning technical leadership and quality execution, as this will be crucial during interviews and potential practical assessments.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Based on typical industry standards for a Lead Framer in the Rochester Hills, Michigan area with 4+ years of experience, a part-time role, and considering the "Part-time" designation, the estimated hourly wage range is likely between $25 - $35 per hour. This estimate is derived from researching prevailing wages for skilled trades in construction in Michigan, factoring in leadership responsibilities and the specific employer's likely compensation structure for specialized roles.

Benefits:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance.

• 401(K) retirement savings plan.

• Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP).

• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) for healthcare and dependent care.

• Life & Disability Insurance coverage.

• Paid Time Off: Vacation, Sick Time, and Personal Time.

• Company Holidays.

• Multiple Voluntary and Company-provided additional benefits. Working Hours:

• The job is listed as "Part-time." However, construction roles, particularly those involving crew leadership and project timelines, often require flexibility and may involve overtime to meet production schedules. Candidates should confirm the expected weekly hours and potential for overtime.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on common industry benchmarks for skilled trades in Michigan and the explicit mention of "Part-time" employment. Actual compensation will depend on experience, specific hours worked, and D.R. Horton's internal pay scales. The benefits package is comprehensive and typical for a large, established company.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Homebuilding & Construction. D.R. Horton operates in a highly competitive and dynamic sector, focusing on the entry-level and first-time move-up markets. The company's scale as the largest homebuilder in the U.S. implies a structured, process-driven environment aimed at efficiency and volume.

Company Size: Large (over 10,000 employees). This indicates a well-established corporate structure with defined departments, HR processes, and a significant operational footprint.

Founded: 1978. With over four decades of operation, D.R. Horton has a long history of market presence and adaptation within the homebuilding industry.

Team Structure:

• The Lead Framer will be part of a larger construction team, likely reporting to a Framing Foreman.

• This role involves direct supervision and technical guidance of a crew of Framers and Apprentice Framers.

• Close collaboration with other site supervisors, project managers, and potentially inspectors will be necessary to ensure project continuity and quality. Methodology:

• D.R. Horton emphasizes systematic construction processes to ensure quality and efficiency across numerous projects.

• A data-driven approach to production planning and resource management is implied by their scale and market position.

• The company culture likely values teamwork, accountability, and a commitment to meeting production targets.

Company Website: www.drhorton.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's status as the largest homebuilder in the U.S. suggests a focus on standardized processes, efficiency, and volume production. This translates to a work environment where adherence to established protocols and quality standards is paramount.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a skilled trade leadership position. It is a step above an individual contributor Framer, requiring technical expertise combined with the ability to guide and mentor others. It serves as a crucial link between hands-on labor and site management.

Reporting Structure:

• Typically reports to a Framing Foreman or Site Superintendent.

• Directly supervises a crew of Framers and Apprentice Framers, providing technical direction and oversight. Operations Impact:

• The framing crew's efficiency and quality directly impact project timelines, material costs, and the structural integrity of homes.

• As a Lead Framer, you contribute to the overall success of D.R. Horton's homebuilding operations by ensuring the framing phase is executed safely, efficiently, and to high-quality standards, which ultimately affects customer satisfaction and profitability. Growth Opportunities:

• Advancement to Framing Foreman or Site Superintendent positions within D.R. Horton.

• Specialization in specific framing techniques or construction methods.

• Potential for cross-training in other construction trades.

• Opportunities to mentor and develop junior team members, enhancing leadership skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Part-time" designation may limit direct advancement into full-time management roles without a shift in employment status. However, the leadership responsibilities provide a clear pathway for career progression within the construction trades if full-time employment is sought.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Primarily on active construction sites. This is a field-based role.

Office Location(s): Rochester Hills, Michigan, and surrounding project areas.

Workspace Context:

• Work is performed outdoors on residential construction sites, subject to varying weather conditions (heat, cold, rain, snow).

• The environment involves inherent risks associated with construction, including noise, dust, uneven terrain, heights, and the operation of heavy machinery and power tools.

• Requires the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as hard hats, safety glasses, steel-toed boots, and potentially fall protection.

• The workspace is dynamic, changing as the construction progresses from foundation to framing completion. Work Schedule:

• Listed as "Part-time," but construction schedules are often dictated by project timelines and weather.

• May require early morning starts.

• Potential for overtime, especially during peak construction seasons or to meet deadlines.

• Flexibility to work varying hours based on project needs is essential.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "On-site" nature of this role is critical. Candidates should be comfortable with the physical demands and environmental conditions typical of a construction site. The "Part-time" status needs clarification regarding expected hours and consistency.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and application to assess experience and qualifications against job requirements.

• On-site Interview: Likely conducted by the Hiring Manager (Framing Foreman or Site Superintendent). This may involve a site visit to assess your understanding of current project conditions and your practical approach.

• Skills Assessment/Practical Demonstration: You may be asked to demonstrate specific framing techniques, interpret blueprints on the spot, or discuss problem-solving scenarios related to framing challenges.

• Team/Culture Fit: Discussion to assess your ability to work effectively with a crew, communicate clearly, and uphold company values and safety standards.

• Final Decision: Based on overall assessment of skills, experience, and fit.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• While a formal portfolio may not be standard for trades, be prepared to discuss specific projects you've worked on as a lead or senior framer.

• Bring photos of your work if available, especially examples of complex framing, precise layouts, or challenging builds.

• Be ready to articulate your process for interpreting blueprints, ensuring accuracy (plumb, level, measurements), and managing a crew.

• Highlight instances where you demonstrated technical leadership, problem-solved framing issues, or improved efficiency or safety on a job site.

• Discuss your experience with safety protocols and any specific certifications like OSHA 10. Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for scenario-based questions: "How would you handle X situation on a framing job?" or "What are the critical steps to ensure a wall is plumb and level?"

• Think about how you would sequence framing tasks for a typical house.

• Consider how you would communicate instructions to your crew and ensure they understand.

• Review common framing challenges (e.g., dealing with site variations, ensuring structural integrity around openings) and how you've addressed them.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a trade role, the "portfolio" is less about formal documents and more about demonstrating practical experience and leadership through detailed discussion and potentially visual aids. Emphasize concrete examples of your skills and problem-solving abilities.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Framing Hand Tools: Hammers, measuring tapes, chalk lines, speed squares, levels, pry bars, utility knives.

• Framing Power Tools: Nail guns (framing, finishing), circular saws, miter saws, reciprocating saws, routers, drills, impact drivers.

• Construction Equipment: Ladders, scaffolding, possibly scissor lifts or boom lifts (requiring certification), generators.

• Safety Equipment: Hard hats, safety glasses, work gloves, steel-toed boots, fall protection harnesses.

• Measuring & Layout Tools: Laser levels, rotary lasers, transit levels, plumb bobs, batter boards.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not directly involved in formal "analytics," the Lead Framer is responsible for interpreting construction drawings and specifications, which are forms of technical data.

• May use basic reporting tools for material requests or daily progress logs, potentially via company-specific applications. CRM & Automation:

• D.R. Horton may utilize project management software or mobile applications for task management, progress tracking, and communication. Familiarity with such systems is beneficial.

• Understanding of how efficient framing impacts downstream processes (e.g., drywall, roofing, window installation) is crucial.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with standard construction tools and equipment is paramount. While advanced software isn't typically required for this role, adaptability to company-specific applications for job management and communication is a plus.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Quality Craftsmanship: Commitment to building homes that meet D.R. Horton's high standards for durability and aesthetics.

• Safety First: Prioritizing the well-being of all crew members and adhering strictly to safety regulations.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working effectively with the framing crew and other trades to achieve project goals.

• Efficiency & Productivity: Striving to complete work on time and within budget through effective planning and execution.

• Integrity & Professionalism: Conducting all business interactions ethically and professionally.

Collaboration Style:

• Direct, clear, and concise communication is essential on a construction site.

• Leading by example, demonstrating strong work ethic and technical proficiency.

• Providing constructive feedback and guidance to crew members.

• Proactively communicating with supervisors and other trades to ensure smooth project flow.

• Fostering a supportive environment where team members feel empowered to ask questions and contribute.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture likely emphasizes results, efficiency, and adherence to process, as is common in large-scale construction operations. The "We Build People Too" slogan suggests a focus on employee development and team cohesion.