Carpenter (2 positions)

Colgate University is seeking two full-time Carpenters to join the Facilities Department. This role supports the university's mission by maintaining and enhancing the physical environment to ensure a safe, clean, and comfortable campus.

About the Role

The Facilities Department provides the physical environment, utilities, and facilities support services necessary to promote the educational and research activities of the university. We emphasize strong coordination, communication, and a customer-oriented approach, fostering a work environment that encourages employee initiative, engagement, and development.

Responsibilities

• Construct, erect, install, and repair wood and masonry structures and fixtures using blueprints, drawings, or oral instructions.
• Install multiple wall hangings (vinyl, acoustical, draperies, etc.).
• Use hand and power tools (e.g., hammers, trowels, screw guns, table saws, chop saws) to perform assigned duties.
• Remove, hang, patch sheetrock; make plaster repairs; perform trim work; and repair cabinetry and furniture.
• Mix mortar; build, erect, and repair stone and brick structures such as walls, sidewalks, and curbstones; and perform ceramic and quarry tile installations.
• Perform associated preparation work, including form and frame work, trim setting, and erecting scaffolding.
• Conduct layout for assigned jobs, estimating labor hours, materials, and support staff needed; maintain accurate records of labor and materials.
• Perform minor roof work and repairs.
• Prepare, tape, and finish unfinished sheetrock or similar materials.
• Maintain cooperation and professionalism when interacting with university personnel.
• Repair door hardware and locking systems, as well as various door and window systems (e.g., hollow metal frames, aluminum storefront, sliding).
• Work independently without direct supervision and coordinate work with others.
• Work under the direction of the carpenter foreperson and collaborate with campus customers to understand needs, schedule work, and close out jobs.
• Assist other Architectural Trades Journeypersons and team members as needed.
• Oversee outside contractors to ensure Colgate standards are met; supervise apprentices and/or summer and casual wage hires.
• Record work order entries, materials, and labor accurately and in a timely manner.
• Provide professional communications in all interactions (face-to-face, phone, radio, or written).
• Listen to customers, assess needs, and provide appropriate solutions and information.
• Diffuse challenging situations, remain calm and focused, and escalate when necessary.
• Adhere to all safety regulations (federal, state, and local) and Colgate policies, practices, and procedures.
• Work as part of a unified team, fostering positive relationships with all department members.
• Coordinate and communicate effectively between multi-functional teams to complete jobs efficiently.

Requirements

• High School diploma (or equivalent) or a combination of education and experience demonstrating comparable skills.
• At least one of the following:
  • Certification from a 4- or 5-year accredited carpentry apprentice program and 2 years of journeyperson-level field experience.
  • Graduation from a 2-year certified construction trade school plus 3 years of actively working in the carpentry field at journeyperson level.
  • Proof of 5 consecutive years as a journeyperson carpenter in the field.
• Experience with hanging and patching sheetrock, plaster repairs, trim work, cabinetry, and furniture repairs.
• Experience constructing framing and installing/repairing commercial and residential door/window systems.
• Experience with various types of suspension ceiling grids and tiles.
• Previous masonry and tiling experience.
• Ability to interact positively with team members and campus constituents.
• Experience working independently and as part of a team, coordinating with other trade shops.
• Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Word, Excel, Gmail, and the ability to use computer programs for work order entries, material procurement, and estimating.
• Experience in commercial and residential construction settings.
• Excellent customer service skills.
• Ability to work in a diverse environment with students, faculty, staff, and visitors.
• Capability to learn new systems.

Preferred Qualifications

• Demonstrated verbal and written communication skills.
• Completion of trade school.
• 10-hour OSHA training course.
• Additional experience in painting.
• Knowledge of NYS Building Codes.

Schedule

Monday – Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Must be available for on-call and scheduled overtime, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as required.