We're Hiring!! Skilled Carpenter / Framer – Lead Technician

Gallaherco
Full-time•$34-36/hour (USD)•San Jose, United States
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📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Skilled Carpenter / Framer – Lead Technician

Company: Gallaherco (HotShot Restoration Division)

Location: San Jose, California, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Skilled Trades / Construction Operations

Date Posted: September 30, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years (Lead/Technician Level)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

  • This is a critical hands-on field role focused on leading and executing construction and build-back projects within the restoration division.

  • The position requires a strong, independent carpenter capable of managing projects from assessment to completion with minimal supervision.

  • Responsibilities include performing skilled carpentry, coordinating scopes of work, and ensuring high-quality outcomes for emergency restoration services.

  • The role demands exceptional customer service and adherence to strict safety and quality standards in a fast-paced environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is specifically for a "Lead Technician," implying a higher level of responsibility and autonomy than a standard carpenter. The focus on "emergency services" and "restoration" suggests a need for adaptability, quick problem-solving, and potentially irregular hours. The company's emphasis on core values like "Unity," "Winners Win," and "Relentless Servant Mentality" indicates a strong team culture and performance-driven environment.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

  • Independently assess assigned restoration project scopes, determine necessary work, and execute all aspects of the construction/build-back process.

  • Perform skilled structural framing and rough carpentry, including framing and structural repairs.

  • Conduct finish carpentry tasks such as installing baseboard, casing, crown molding, interior/exterior doors, and cabinetry.

  • Execute general carpentry repairs, including fence repairs, siding replacement, and other build-back carpentry tasks.

  • Read, interpret, and work from construction plans, drawings, and job scopes to ensure accurate project execution.

  • Coordinate necessary work and resources to ensure efficient project completion and adherence to deadlines.

  • Maintain a high standard of quality in all carpentry and construction work performed.

  • Provide exceptional customer service to clients during stressful emergency situations, demonstrating empathy and professionalism.

  • Adhere to all safety protocols, including working at heights, using proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), and following OSHA and local safety regulations for hazardous materials.

  • Participate in on-call rotations and be available for emergency response work outside of standard business hours, including weekends.

  • Maintain a professional appearance and demeanor due to frequent client interaction.

  • Be open to cross-training in mitigation techniques to support broader restoration efforts.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize independent job ownership and end-to-end project management, aligning with a "Lead Technician" designation. The inclusion of "emergency response work," "on-call rotations," and "after hours and weekends" highlights the demanding nature of the restoration industry and requires a candidate with flexibility and commitment. The explicit mention of "exceptional customer service with empathy and understanding during a stressful time" points to a critical soft skill requirement for this client-facing role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is listed, a strong foundation in vocational training, trade school certifications in carpentry or construction, or equivalent on-the-job learning is implied.

Experience: Minimum of 5 years of hands-on carpentry and construction experience, with a significant portion focused on leading and independently managing job sites from start to finish. Experience in the restoration or emergency services sector is highly advantageous.

Required Skills:

  • Minimum 5 years of hands-on carpentry/construction experience with demonstrated experience leading jobs independently.

  • Strong, hands-on structural framing and rough carpentry skills.

  • Proficiency in reading and understanding construction plans, blueprints, and drawings.

  • Thorough knowledge of proper framing methods, layout, and construction practices.

  • Experience in finish carpentry, including installation of baseboards, casing, crown molding, interior/exterior doors, and cabinetry.

  • Ability to perform general carpentry repairs, including fence and siding replacement.

  • Demonstrated ability to independently assess project scope, plan work, and execute projects to completion.

  • Possession of a reliable work truck and basic hand tools.

  • Valid California driver's license with a clean DMV record.

  • Strong work ethic: punctual, dependable, and capable of working independently.

  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for client and team interaction.

  • Ability to read, understand, and follow written instructions, plans, procedures, and job scopes.

  • Availability for full-time work, including weekends and participation in on-call rotations.

  • Ability to work safely at heights and adhere to all safety protocols and PPE requirements.

  • Understanding of OSHA and local safety regulations, particularly for hazardous materials handling.

  • Openness to cross-training in mitigation techniques. Preferred Skills:

  • Experience with flooring installation.

  • Experience with drywall installation and repair.

  • Experience with painting.

  • Spanish language proficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for a "reliable work truck" and "basic hand tools" is a key practical qualification for this field-based role, indicating the expectation of self-sufficiency. The specific mention of "5 years of experience leading jobs, not simply assisting as part of a crew" is a critical differentiator, signaling that candidates must demonstrate leadership and project ownership capabilities beyond basic trade skills. The preference for flooring, drywall, and painting skills suggests a desire for a versatile technician who can handle multiple aspects of a build-back project.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

  • Documented examples of independently managed construction/build-back projects, showcasing the full scope from assessment to completion.

  • Case studies detailing specific framing and finish carpentry projects, highlighting challenges overcome and quality of execution.

  • Visual evidence (photos/videos) of completed work, demonstrating proficiency in structural repairs, finish carpentry, and general build-back tasks.

  • Evidence of ability to read and execute projects based on construction plans and drawings.

  • Documentation of safety compliance, including any relevant certifications or training. Process Documentation:

  • Demonstrations of how you assess a project scope and plan the required work steps.

  • Examples of workflow management for completing projects efficiently and to a high standard.

  • Evidence of problem-solving processes used to address unexpected issues during construction or repair.

  • Documentation of customer interaction protocols and how exceptional service is delivered during stressful situations.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated as a "portfolio requirement," the job description strongly implies the need to showcase a history of leading and completing projects independently. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their approach to project assessment, planning, execution, and quality control. The emphasis on "ownership" and "leading jobs" suggests that a portfolio demonstrating project management capabilities, not just trade skills, will be highly valued.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on the provided data, the estimated salary range for a Skilled Carpenter / Framer – Lead Technician in San Jose, California, with 5-10 years of experience, is approximately $34 - $36 per hour. This estimate considers the cost of living in the San Jose area, the specialized nature of restoration work, and the lead technician responsibilities.

Benefits:

  • Full-time employment with Gallaher Co.

  • Opportunity to join a company with strong core values and a team-oriented culture.

  • Potential for cross-training in mitigation techniques.

  • Participation in emergency response work, which can offer different challenges and learning experiences.

Working Hours: This is a full-time position, typically requiring 40 hours per week. However, due to the nature of emergency restoration services, candidates must be available for work outside of standard hours, including weekends, and participate in on-call rotations. Flexibility is essential.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range of $34-$36/hour is an estimate based on industry benchmarks for skilled trades in the San Jose area, factoring in the lead technician and restoration specialization. Actual compensation may vary based on the candidate's specific experience, skills, and performance during the interview process. The benefits listed are derived from the general context of full-time employment with a company and the specific nature of the role; more detailed benefits information would typically be provided by the employer.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction & Building Services, specializing in Emergency Restoration (Water, Fire, Mold). Gallaher Co. serves the multifamily industry, providing comprehensive service solutions.

Company Size: While not explicitly stated, the use of BambooHR for recruitment and the mention of a "Restoration Division" suggest a moderately sized company with established operational processes. The "HotShot Restoration" branding implies a dedicated and agile team focused on rapid response.

Founded: The company was founded in 2017, indicating a relatively young but established organization that has grown to specialize in restoration services.

Team Structure:

  • The role is within the Restoration Division, likely comprising project managers, technicians, and support staff.

  • As a Lead Technician, the position will involve significant independent work but also collaboration with other technicians, project managers, and potentially administrative staff for job coordination.

  • The company emphasizes "Unity" and "Relentless Servant Mentality," suggesting a team that supports each other and prioritizes client needs.

  • The reporting structure likely involves reporting to a Restoration Manager or Operations Lead. Methodology:

  • The company operates with a strong emphasis on core values: Unity, No Gossip, Winners Win, Relentless Servant Mentality, Integrity, and Extreme Accountability. These values likely shape daily operations, decision-making, and team interactions.

  • The restoration process involves rapid assessment, containment, mitigation, and reconstruction/build-back, requiring efficient and standardized operational procedures.

  • A focus on being a "one-stop service solution" implies integrated processes across different service aspects.

Company Website: https://gallaherco.com/ (Inferred from domain_derived)

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's founding date (2017) and emphasis on specific core values provide insights into a potentially dynamic and growth-oriented culture. The "HotShot Restoration" division name suggests a focus on speed and efficiency, critical in emergency services. The "multifamily industry" focus indicates a B2B or B2B2C operational model.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Lead Technician role, positioned at an experienced skilled trades level. It requires demonstrated leadership capabilities and the ability to manage projects autonomously. It is a step above a general carpenter role, focusing on ownership and project completion.

Reporting Structure: The Lead Technician will likely report to a Restoration Project Manager or a Division Manager within the HotShot Restoration division. They will be expected to work independently in the field but maintain clear communication and reporting lines with management.

Operations Impact: This role directly impacts Gallaherco's ability to deliver timely and high-quality restoration services. Successful project completion by the Lead Technician contributes to client satisfaction, company reputation, revenue generation, and operational efficiency in managing disaster recovery projects.

Growth Opportunities:

  • Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific restoration carpentry techniques or advanced framing methods.

  • Leadership: Potential advancement to a Project Manager role overseeing multiple projects and technicians.

  • Cross-Training: Develop skills in other restoration areas (mitigation, water damage assessment, etc.) to become a more versatile technician.

  • Training: Opportunities for continued professional development, including safety certifications (OSHA), material handling, and potentially leadership training.

  • Mentorship: Opportunity to mentor less experienced technicians on best practices and company standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Lead Technician" title implies a growth path beyond individual contributor roles. The emphasis on independence and project ownership suggests that successful candidates can naturally progress into supervisory or project management positions within the restoration division. The company's stated value of "Winners Win" might indicate a performance-based reward and advancement system.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Primarily a field-based role. While there may be a central office or yard for administrative tasks, equipment, and team coordination, the majority of time will be spent at client sites or project locations.

Office Location(s): Primarily serving the San Jose, California area and surrounding regions, as indicated by the job location. This involves travel to various residential and commercial properties requiring restoration services.

Workspace Context:

  • The work environment is dynamic and often challenging, involving emergency situations that require rapid response and problem-solving.

  • Workspaces can range from damaged residential homes to commercial properties, often in less-than-ideal conditions (e.g., post-disaster).

  • Requires working independently on-site, managing tools, materials, and project progress.

  • Collaboration occurs with clients (often in distress), fellow technicians, and management, requiring adaptability in communication and approach.

  • Access to company resources or a central depot for materials and equipment may be available, but personal tools and a truck are required.

Work Schedule: Full-time, with a standard expectation of 40 hours per week. However, the role necessitates significant flexibility due to the emergency nature of restoration work. This includes availability for after-hours calls, weekend work, and participation in on-call rotations. The ability to adapt to urgent demands is crucial.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Work Environment" is characterized by its demanding and unpredictable nature due to the emergency restoration context. Candidates must be prepared for physically demanding work, potentially in hazardous conditions, and the psychological aspect of working with clients experiencing significant distress. The requirement for a personal work truck and tools underscores the independent, mobile nature of the role.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

  • Initial Screening: Review of resume and application to assess qualifications, especially the 5+ years of independent job-leading experience.

  • Skills Assessment/Practical Test: Potential hands-on demonstration of carpentry skills (framing, finish work) or a detailed discussion of past projects to evaluate technical proficiency and problem-solving abilities.

  • Behavioral & Situational Interview: Questions focused on assessing adherence to company values (Unity, Integrity, Accountability), customer service skills, ability to handle stress, and independent decision-making.

  • Field Assessment/Site Visit: Discussion of how they would approach a typical restoration build-back project scope.

  • Final Interview: Likely with a hiring manager or senior leadership to discuss role expectations, compensation, and cultural fit.

Portfolio Review Tips:

  • Showcase Leadership: Highlight projects where you were the primary lead, demonstrating your ability to manage the entire process from start to finish.

  • Quantify Impact: If possible, provide metrics on project completion times, quality improvements, or cost-effectiveness.

  • Visual Evidence: Include high-quality photos or videos of your work, particularly before-and-after shots of framing and finish carpentry.

  • Problem-Solving Narratives: Be prepared to discuss specific challenges encountered on past jobs and how you resolved them independently.

  • Customer Service Examples: Share instances where you successfully managed client expectations and provided excellent service during difficult times.

  • Tool & Truck Readiness: Be prepared to confirm you have the necessary tools and a reliable work truck.

Challenge Preparation:

  • Scenario-Based Questions: Expect questions like, "How would you approach framing a damaged wall for a fire-restored home?" or "Describe a time you had to deliver bad news to a client about project delays."

  • Value Alignment: Be ready to discuss how your work ethic and approach align with Gallaherco's core values.

  • Safety Protocols: Be prepared to discuss your understanding of OSHA regulations and best practices for site safety.

  • Time Management: Demonstrate how you prioritize tasks and manage your time effectively to complete projects efficiently, especially under pressure.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "leading jobs independently" means interviewers will likely probe deeply into your project management experience and decision-making autonomy. Candidates should be ready to articulate their process for planning and executing a build-back project from the ground up, not just their technical skills. The company's strong values suggest that cultural fit and how candidates embody these values will be a significant part of the evaluation.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

  • Carpentry Hand Tools: A comprehensive set of personal hand tools is required, including but not limited to hammers, saws (hand, circular, miter), measuring tapes, levels, chisels, screwdrivers, wrenches, utility knives, etc.

  • Power Tools: Personal power tools such as circular saws, miter saws, reciprocating saws, drills, impact drivers, sanders, etc.

  • Measuring & Layout Tools: Laser levels, chalk lines, plumb bobs, framing squares, speed squares.

  • Safety Equipment: Hard hats, safety glasses, work gloves, hearing protection, respirators, fall protection harnesses (for working at heights).

  • Work Truck: A reliable work truck is a mandatory requirement for transporting tools, materials, and for on-call availability.

Analytics & Reporting:

  • While not a typical office-based operations role, the Lead Technician will need to report on job progress, material usage, and time spent. This may involve using company-specific software or mobile applications for job tracking and reporting.

  • Basic understanding of reading and interpreting project plans and scopes. CRM & Automation:

  • Primarily a field-based role, direct interaction with CRM systems is less likely for the technician. However, they will be expected to input job data and updates into systems managed by project managers or administrative staff.

  • Understanding of workflow processes for restoration and build-back projects is essential, even if not directly managing automated systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily tool-centric and practical, focusing on essential carpentry equipment. The requirement for a personal work truck and hand tools is a significant operational detail. While advanced software isn't listed, the expectation of reporting job progress implies some level of digital interaction with company systems.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values: Gallaherco operates by a distinct set of core values that are integral to their culture and operations:

  • Unity: Fostering a collaborative environment where team members support each other.

  • No Gossip: Maintaining a professional and respectful communication environment, focusing on constructive dialogue.

  • Winners Win: A performance-driven mindset, encouraging success and high achievement.

  • Relentless Servant Mentality: Prioritizing client needs and providing exceptional service with a proactive attitude.

  • Integrity: Upholding honesty, ethical conduct, and transparency in all actions.

  • Extreme Accountability: Taking full responsibility for one's actions, work, and outcomes.

Collaboration Style:

  • Expected to be collaborative within the team, sharing knowledge and supporting fellow technicians, especially during complex or emergency situations.

  • Requires clear and concise communication with project managers and potentially other trades.

  • Emphasis on client interaction necessitates a professional, empathetic, and service-oriented communication style, even under pressure.

  • The "No Gossip" value suggests a preference for direct, constructive feedback and problem-solving rather than passive negativity.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit listing of company values is a strong indicator of what Gallaherco prioritizes in its employees. Candidates should prepare to demonstrate how they embody these values in their daily work and decision-making, particularly "Relentless Servant Mentality" and "Extreme Accountability."

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

  • Fast-Paced & High-Pressure Environment: Responding to emergency restoration needs means working under tight deadlines and often in stressful, chaotic situations.

  • Varied Project Scope: Each restoration project presents unique challenges, requiring adaptability and broad carpentry knowledge.

  • Client Management: Dealing with clients who are often experiencing significant distress and loss requires exceptional empathy, patience, and communication skills.

  • Physical Demands: The role involves physically demanding work, including working at heights, lifting, and working in various environmental conditions.

  • Independent Workload: Managing projects autonomously requires strong self-discipline, time management, and problem-solving skills.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

  • Advanced Carpentry Skills: Opportunities to refine and expand expertise in specialized framing, structural repair, and finish carpentry techniques.

  • Restoration Process Expertise: Gaining in-depth knowledge of water, fire, and mold damage restoration processes beyond just the build-back phase.

  • Cross-Training: Potential to learn and become certified in mitigation techniques, increasing versatility and value.

  • Safety Certifications: Opportunities to obtain or renew certifications like OSHA, hazardous materials handling, or fall protection.

  • Leadership Development: For high performers, there's potential to grow into roles with greater project management and team leadership responsibilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges highlight the need for resilience, adaptability, and strong interpersonal skills. The growth opportunities suggest a company that invests in its employees' development, particularly in expanding their skill sets within the restoration and construction trades.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

  • "Describe a complex carpentry project you led independently from start to finish. What were the key stages, challenges, and your role in overcoming them?" (Focus on process, problem-solving, and leadership).

  • "How do you approach reading and interpreting construction plans and job scopes for restoration projects?" (Assess blueprint reading and planning skills).

  • "Imagine a client is very distressed about the damage to their home. How would you communicate with them and ensure they feel supported while managing their project expectations?" (Evaluate customer service and empathy).

  • "Walk me through your process for ensuring safety on a job site, especially when working at heights or with potential hazards." (Assess safety consciousness and knowledge of protocols).

  • "How do you prioritize your tasks when managing multiple aspects of a build-back project simultaneously?" (Gauge time management and organizational skills). Company & Culture Questions:

  • "Which of Gallaherco's core values resonates most with you, and how do you demonstrate it in your work?" (Assess cultural alignment).

  • "How do you handle situations where you disagree with a colleague or supervisor on a project approach?" (Evaluate conflict resolution and collaboration within the "No Gossip" framework).

  • "Describe a time you went above and beyond for a client or a team member. How did it align with a 'Relentless Servant Mentality'?" (Assess service orientation).

  • "What does 'Extreme Accountability' mean to you in the context of a Lead Technician role?" (Evaluate personal responsibility and ownership). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

  • Project Walkthrough: Be ready to present 2-3 key projects from your portfolio, detailing your role as the lead, the scope of work, challenges, solutions, and the final outcome.

  • Visual Aids: Use photos or videos to illustrate the quality of your work and the complexity of the projects.

  • Tool & Truck Confirmation: Be prepared to show or confirm you have the required tools and a reliable work truck.

  • Focus on Independence: Emphasize your ability to work autonomously and manage projects without constant supervision.

  • Quantifiable Results: If possible, mention metrics like project timelines met, client satisfaction scores, or efficiency improvements.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should heavily focus on demonstrating independent leadership, problem-solving, and alignment with Gallaherco's specific core values. Candidates need to prove they can not only perform carpentry tasks but also manage a project and client experience effectively.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Skilled Carpenter / Framer – Lead Technician position:

  • Submit your application through the provided link on the Gallaherco careers page.

  • Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly highlights your 5+ years of experience in carpentry and, critically, any experience where you led jobs independently. Quantify achievements and specific skills in framing, finish carpentry, and project execution.

  • Portfolio Preparation: Gather visual evidence (photos/videos) of your best work, especially projects you led. Prepare to discuss 2-3 key projects in detail, focusing on your role, challenges, and solutions. Be ready to confirm possession of a reliable work truck and essential tools.

  • Interview Practice: Rehearse answers to strategy, situational, and values-based interview questions. Focus on demonstrating your independence, problem-solving abilities, and alignment with Gallaherco's core values. Practice articulating your project management process.

  • Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Gallaherco's HotShot Restoration division, their services, and their stated core values. Understand the demands of the restoration industry and be prepared to discuss your flexibility for emergency response work.

⚠️ 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.

Application Requirements

Candidates must have at least 5 years of hands-on carpentry and job-leading experience with strong structural framing skills. A valid California driver's license, a reliable work truck, and the ability to work flexible hours including weekends and on-call rotations are required.