Rough Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Rough Framer

Company: Vaughan Buckley Construction (VBC)

Location: Berwick, Pennsylvania, US

Job Type: Full Time

Category: Construction & Trades

Date Posted: September 15, 2026

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is critical in the initial structural development of construction projects, focusing on the precise execution of framing tasks.

• The Rough Framer will be responsible for interpreting architectural blueprints and CAD drawings to ensure accurate construction of building skeletons.

• This position requires extensive hands-on experience with both power and hand tools essential for carpentry and framing.

• A strong understanding of safety protocols, including OSHA standards and local building codes, is paramount for this role.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Rough Framer," the company description for Volumetric Building Companies (VBC) suggests a potential for involvement in modular construction processes, which may involve pre-fabrication or assembly line work alongside traditional on-site framing. This could indicate a blend of traditional construction and manufacturing operations.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Structural Framing: Erect the essential skeleton of residential or commercial buildings, accurately constructing walls, floor joists, ceiling joists, and roof trusses according to project specifications.

• Blueprint Interpretation: Read, comprehend, and analyze architectural blueprints and CAD drawings to accurately determine precise dimensions, angles, and material requirements for framing.

• Formwork & Foundations: Construct and assemble wooden or metal forms (molds) for pouring concrete foundations, footings, and retaining walls, ensuring precise alignment and structural integrity.

• Material Preparation & Cutting: Accurately measure, mark, and cut lumber, plywood, and other framing materials using a variety of power tools (e.g., circular saws, nail guns) and hand tools.

• Component Installation: Install rough window and door frames, subflooring, and sheathing, ensuring proper fit and preparation for subsequent trades.

• Support Structure Construction: Build and install temporary supports, including scaffolding, ramps, and platforms, to ensure on-site safety and accessibility for all personnel.

• Quality Assurance & Repair: Regularly inspect existing framework for defects, rot, or decay and perform necessary structural repairs to maintain quality and safety standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities suggest a hands-on role with a strong emphasis on precision and adherence to technical specifications, typical of skilled trades within a construction operations context. The mention of CAD drawings indicates a potential for interaction with digital design and planning tools.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High School Diploma or GED required.

Experience: 2-5 years of proven experience in rough carpentry or framing. Completion of a carpentry apprenticeship or vocational training program is highly preferred. Experience in warehouse or manufacturing environments is a plus.

Required Skills:

• Structural Framing Expertise: Demonstrated ability to construct the core framework of buildings with precision.

• Blueprint Reading: Proficient in interpreting architectural blueprints and CAD drawings.

• Tool Proficiency: Expertise in operating and maintaining various power tools (circular saws, nail guns, drills) and hand tools (levels, plumb bobs, squares).

• Mathematical Aptitude: Strong ability to perform geometric and algebraic calculations for angles, measurements, and material quantities.

• Physical Stamina: Ability to lift up to 100 lbs, work at heights on scaffolding, and maintain physical activity (standing, bending) for extended periods in diverse weather conditions.

• Safety Compliance: Thorough understanding and adherence to OSHA safety standards and local building codes.

• Teamwork & Communication: Ability to collaborate effectively with team members and communicate clearly on project progress and potential issues.

• Reliability & Work Ethic: Punctual, dependable, and committed to completing tasks efficiently and to a high standard.

• Organizational Skills: Strong attention to detail in measuring, cutting, and assembling materials.

Preferred Skills:

• Formal apprenticeship or vocational training in carpentry.

• Experience in modular construction or pre-fabrication environments.

• Familiarity with construction project management software or digital design tools.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience level is estimated based on the typical progression for a skilled trade role requiring both theoretical knowledge (blueprints, math) and practical application (tool proficiency, physical demands). The inclusion of CAD drawings suggests a move towards more technologically integrated construction processes.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Framing Projects: Showcase 2-3 detailed examples of structural framing projects, clearly illustrating your role and contributions from initial layout to final structure.

• Blueprint Interpretation Examples: Include annotated blueprints or drawings where you've identified critical dimensions or potential challenges, demonstrating your understanding.

• Material Calculation Documentation: Provide samples of how you calculate material needs for framing tasks, highlighting accuracy and waste reduction.

• Safety Protocol Adherence: Briefly describe your approach to on-site safety, including specific measures taken on past projects to comply with OSHA or company standards.

Process Documentation:

• Measurement & Cutting Workflows: Document your standard operating procedure for accurately measuring and cutting lumber and other framing materials, emphasizing efficiency and precision.

• Assembly & Installation Procedures: Outline the steps you follow for assembling and installing framing components, ensuring structural integrity and adherence to specifications.

• Quality Check Protocols: Detail your process for inspecting finished framing work for level, plumb, and dimensional accuracy, including any corrective actions taken.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Rough Framer role, a traditional "portfolio" might be less about glossy presentations and more about demonstrating practical skills and a systematic approach. The emphasis is on tangible evidence of work quality, safety consciousness, and efficient process execution.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $20.00 - $31.50 per hour.

Benefits:

• Highly competitive pay.

• Comprehensive benefits program.

• Flexible time-off programs.

• 401(k) program with employer matching.

• Employee referral programs with charitable donations.

• "Day of Giving" program for volunteering at community charities.

Working Hours: 5:00 AM - 1:30 PM (40 hours per week).

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range of $20-$31.50/hour for Berwick, PA, aligns with skilled trade positions. Berwick, PA, has a moderate cost of living. Based on the US Bureau of Labor Statistics and industry salary aggregators for Carpenters (which Rough Framers fall under), this range is competitive for an experienced individual in this region. The lower end reflects entry-level experienced candidates, while the higher end reflects seasoned professionals with extensive framing and potentially modular construction experience. The fixed shift schedule indicates a structured operational environment.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction & Manufacturing (Volumetric Modular Building). VBC is a leader in integrating advanced manufacturing techniques with traditional construction to deliver modular buildings. This industry focus implies a blend of on-site execution and factory-like precision.

Company Size: Volumetric Building Companies (VBC) operates globally with a significant presence across the U.S., UK, Ireland, Poland, and Serbia, indicating a large, established organization with diverse operational capabilities.

Founded: Volumetric Building Companies was founded with a mission to redefine construction through technology and innovation, emphasizing speed, quality, and sustainability. This founding principle suggests a forward-thinking operational approach.

Team Structure:

• Operations Focus: The team likely consists of skilled tradespeople, including framers, carpenters, and potentially manufacturing specialists, working under site supervisors or foremen.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: As a modular builder, collaboration is essential between on-site construction teams, manufacturing/fabrication departments, design, and project management.

• Reporting Hierarchy: Expect a clear hierarchy with Rough Framers reporting to a lead carpenter or construction supervisor, who in turn reports to a site manager or project manager.

Methodology:

• Precision Manufacturing: VBC's core methodology involves precision in both manufacturing and on-site assembly, requiring meticulous attention to detail.

• Lean Construction Principles: Likely incorporates lean principles for efficiency, waste reduction, and optimized workflow, especially given the manufacturing aspect.

• Safety-First Approach: A strong emphasis on safety protocols (OSHA) is integral to their operations, ensuring a secure work environment.

Company Website: https://www.vbc.co/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's focus on "volumetric modular building" is key. This suggests that while this role is "Rough Framer," it might involve aspects of pre-fabrication in a controlled environment (warehouse) before on-site assembly, or it could be traditional framing on a site where VBC is the general contractor. The emphasis on technology and global reach implies a structured, process-driven environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a skilled trade position, typically considered mid-level for hands-on construction roles. It requires specialized knowledge and practical application beyond basic laborer duties.

Reporting Structure: The Rough Framer will likely report to a Lead Carpenter or Foreman, who oversees a crew and ensures adherence to project plans and timelines. This role is a critical component of the site operations team.

Operations Impact: Rough framing is foundational to any construction project. The quality and accuracy of this role directly impact the structural integrity, build time, and cost-effectiveness of the entire project, influencing the company's ability to deliver on time and within budget.

Growth Opportunities:

• Lead Carpenter/Foreman: Progression to a leadership role, overseeing a framing crew, managing tasks, and ensuring quality control.

• Specialized Carpentry: Development into more specialized areas like finish carpentry, concrete formwork specialist, or modular component assembly.

• Site Supervisor: Advancement to managing broader site operations, coordinating multiple trades, and overseeing project execution.

• Modular Construction Specialist: Gaining expertise in VBC's unique modular building processes, potentially leading to roles in fabrication or advanced assembly.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path is clearly defined within the construction trades. Given VBC's modular focus, opportunities to specialize in that area are particularly relevant and could offer a unique career trajectory compared to traditional construction firms.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This role is primarily on-site construction and potentially in a warehouse/manufacturing setting. VBC's operations integrate both.

Office Location(s): Berwick, Pennsylvania. This specific location will be the primary work site.

Workspace Context:

• Dynamic & Physical: The workspace is physically demanding, requiring work in various conditions, including outdoors and potentially in a noisy manufacturing environment.

• Tool & Equipment Focused: Access to a range of power and hand tools, as well as potentially heavy machinery or lifts, will be standard.

• Team-Oriented: Close collaboration with other framers, carpenters, and construction personnel is essential for efficient workflow and safety.

Work Schedule: The fixed shift schedule of 5:00 AM to 1:30 PM indicates a structured and consistent work environment, typical for construction operations aiming for early project starts and efficient day-end wrap-ups.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is hands-on and physically demanding. The mention of "warehouse" and "outside in the yard" suggests a hybrid environment, possibly involving pre-fabrication or staging in a controlled setting before final on-site installation.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

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

• Skills Assessment/Practical Test: Potential hands-on demonstration of framing techniques, tool proficiency, and blueprint interpretation on-site or in a workshop.

• On-Site Interview: Discussion with a hiring manager or foreman to evaluate work ethic, safety consciousness, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities within a construction context.

• Reference Checks: Verification of past employment and performance.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Tangible Results: Highlight completed framing projects with clear visuals (photos if possible) and concise descriptions of your role and contributions.

• Demonstrate Precision: Show examples of accurate measurements, cuts, and structural assemblies. Annotations on blueprints or drawings can be very effective.

• Emphasize Safety: Be prepared to discuss your understanding of safety protocols and how you apply them daily. Mention specific OSHA standards relevant to framing.

• Quantify Achievements: If possible, mention project scale (e.g., number of units framed, square footage) or efficiency improvements you contributed to.

Challenge Preparation:

• Tool Proficiency: Be ready to demonstrate safe and proficient use of common framing tools.

• Blueprint Reading: Practice interpreting basic framing plans, identifying key dimensions and structural elements.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Prepare to discuss how you would handle common framing challenges, such as material shortages, unexpected site conditions, or design discrepancies.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a skilled trade role like this, the "portfolio" is less about formal presentations and more about presenting evidence of practical skills, safety knowledge, and a systematic approach to framing tasks. A physical demonstration might be part of the interview process.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Power Saws: Circular saws, miter saws, reciprocating saws, framing nail guns.

• Hand Tools: Levels, plumb bobs, measuring tapes, squares, hammers, chisels.

• Safety Equipment: Hard hats, safety glasses, work boots, harnesses (for heights).

• Measuring & Layout Tools: Laser levels, chalk lines.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Blueprint/CAD Software: Familiarity with reading architectural drawings and potentially basic CAD interfaces (e.g., viewing digital plans).

CRM & Automation:

• Time Tracking Software: Likely used for clocking in/out and tracking hours on specific projects.

• Communication Platforms: Company-specific apps or standard tools (e.g., email, text) for team coordination.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily weighted towards essential construction tools and equipment. While advanced software might be used by management or design teams, the Rough Framer's primary tools are manual and power-driven. Familiarity with digital plans is becoming increasingly common.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence & Precision: A commitment to building high-quality, structurally sound frameworks that meet exact specifications.

• Innovation: Embracing VBC's mission to redefine construction through technology and efficient building methods.

• Collaboration: Working effectively as part of a team to achieve project goals and maintain a safe work environment.

• Respect & Community: Contributing to a positive work culture where individuals are valued and community impact is recognized (e.g., Day of Giving).

• Safety: Prioritizing personal and team safety above all else, adhering strictly to protocols.

Collaboration Style:

• Hands-On Teamwork: Expect close physical proximity and direct collaboration with fellow crew members on the framing floor or site.

• Clear Communication: Direct and concise communication is vital for coordinating tasks, ensuring safety, and resolving issues quickly.

• Process-Oriented: Following established workflows and safety procedures is key to successful project execution in a structured environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: VBC's stated values of innovation, collaboration, and community suggest a culture that balances hard work with a sense of purpose and employee well-being, which is a positive differentiator for a construction company.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Physical Demands: The role is physically taxing, requiring sustained effort in various weather conditions and at heights, which can lead to fatigue or injury if not managed properly.

• Precision Under Pressure: Meeting tight deadlines while maintaining high standards of accuracy and safety requires focus and skill.

• Adapting to New Technologies: While this role is traditional framing, VBC's modular approach might introduce new assembly methods or materials that require learning.

• Site Variability: Construction sites can present unforeseen challenges (e.g., site conditions, material delivery delays) that require adaptability and problem-solving.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Framing Techniques: Opportunities to learn specialized framing methods or work with different building systems.

• Modular Construction Training: Gaining expertise in VBC's unique volumetric building processes, potentially leading to specialization.

• Leadership Development: Training for roles like Lead Carpenter or Foreman, focusing on team management, project coordination, and quality control.

• Safety Certifications: Opportunities to enhance safety knowledge and potentially obtain further certifications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to the construction trade, but VBC's focus on innovation and modular building offers unique growth pathways beyond traditional framing roles.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Tell me about a time you encountered a complex framing challenge and how you solved it." (Focus on your problem-solving process, technical skills, and resourcefulness.)

• "How do you ensure accuracy when interpreting blueprints and taking measurements?" (Highlight your attention to detail, use of tools, and understanding of geometric principles.)

• "Describe your approach to on-site safety. What are the most critical safety considerations for a rough framer?" (Demonstrate your knowledge of OSHA standards and your commitment to a safe work environment.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working for Volumetric Building Companies, specifically our approach to modular construction?" (Research VBC's mission, technology, and recent projects. Connect their innovation to your career interests.)

• "How do you contribute to a positive team environment on a construction site?" (Emphasize teamwork, clear communication, and mutual respect.)

• "VBC emphasizes innovation and efficiency. How have you applied these principles in your previous framing work?" (Think about ways you've improved efficiency, reduced waste, or contributed to faster build times.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Visual Evidence: If you have photos of your work, be ready to share them and walk through the framing process.

• Highlight Key Contributions: Clearly articulate your specific responsibilities and achievements on each project presented.

• Process Focus: Explain your step-by-step approach to framing, from layout to installation.

• Quantify Impact: Mention project scale or any efficiency gains you contributed to.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview questions will likely assess practical skills, safety awareness, and cultural fit. Be prepared to demonstrate your understanding of construction processes and VBC's unique business model.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Rough Framer position:

• Submit your application through the provided ADP WorkForce Now link.

• Customize Your Resume: Ensure your resume clearly highlights your years of experience in rough carpentry, specific framing projects, proficiency with power and hand tools, and any relevant certifications or training. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Gather visual evidence (photos) of your framing work, annotated blueprints you've worked from, and any documentation of material calculations or safety protocols you've followed.

• Practice Interview Responses: Rehearse answers to common interview questions, focusing on demonstrating your skills, safety knowledge, and teamwork abilities. Be ready to discuss your understanding of VBC's modular construction approach.

• Research VBC: Familiarize yourself with Volumetric Building Companies' mission, values, and projects. Understand their focus on innovation and modular building to articulate your interest effectively.

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

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