Senior Carpenter

About the role

The Senior Carpenter supports the construction, renovation, repair, and maintenance of facilities that serve patient care, research, administrative, and public operations at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. The role ensures projects are completed safely, efficiently, and in compliance with healthcare regulations, building codes, and infection prevention standards. Approximately 95% of work is performed in the Pawnee Cabinet Shop, with small project initiatives across all UT MD Anderson Texas campuses. The Senior Carpenter serves as a technical expert in advanced carpentry, millwork fabrication, and custom cabinet construction, provides guidance to junior team members, and coordinates work activities with other trades, contractors, and stakeholders.

Responsibilities

Carpentry Services

• Perform skilled and advanced carpentry work involving the installation, repair, modification, and maintenance of doors, frames, and hardware
• Perform skilled and advanced carpentry work involving the installation, repair, modification, and maintenance of millwork and cabinetry
• Perform skilled and advanced carpentry work involving the installation, repair, modification, and maintenance of walls, partitions, ceilings, and flooring systems
• Perform skilled and advanced carpentry work involving the installation, repair, modification, and maintenance of furniture and casework
• Perform skilled and advanced carpentry work involving the installation, repair, modification, and maintenance of patient room fixtures and accessories
• Perform skilled and advanced carpentry work involving the installation, repair, modification, and maintenance of research laboratory furnishings and support structures
• Construct, maintain, and alter wood, metal stud, and drywall assemblies
• Build and install cabinets, countertops, shelving, and other custom products using plywood, plastic laminates, solid-surface materials, Plexiglas, and compact laminate panels
• Machine, assemble, and install architectural millwork from shop drawings
• Fabricate specialty items and custom solutions based on operational requirements

Healthcare Facilities Support

• Perform work in clinical, research, administrative, and public spaces while minimizing disruption to operations
• Maintain compliance with Infection Control Risk Assessment (ICRA) requirements and Interim Life Safety Measures (ILSM)
• Support construction and renovation activities in occupied healthcare environments
• Coordinate work with clinical departments, project managers, facilities personnel, contractors, and other trades
• Repair and replace damaged building components resulting from wear, renovations, or emergency events
• Support small projects throughout UT MD Anderson campuses, with most work performed in the Pawnee Cabinet Shop
• Assist maintenance teams when needed while maintaining primary focus on small project support

Preventive & Corrective Maintenance

• Conduct inspections and preventive maintenance on building components
• Identify deficiencies, recommend corrective actions, and complete repairs
• Respond to work orders and emergency service requests
• Maintain accurate documentation of completed work in the computerized maintenance management system (CMMS)
• Ensure all work is performed safely, efficiently, and in compliance with institutional standards

Project Support

• Read and interpret blueprints, specifications, sketches, shop drawings, and construction documents
• Estimate labor, materials, and equipment requirements
• Assist with planning and execution of facility renovation projects
• Coordinate assigned work with contractors and other maintenance trades
• Support renovation, repair, and maintenance projects across healthcare, administrative, research, and public environments

Leadership & Safety

• Serve as a subject matter expert for advanced carpentry and millwork activities
• Provide technical guidance and training to carpenters and maintenance personnel
• Assist supervisors in prioritizing work assignments and coordinating daily activities
• Monitor workmanship and ensure compliance with applicable standards
• Comply with OSHA regulations, institutional safety policies, and departmental procedures
• Utilize appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Maintain a safe work environment and report unsafe conditions immediately
• Participate in required safety, infection control, and compliance training

Requirements

• High School Diploma or Equivalent
• 5 years Journeyman level carpentry experience in the general repair and maintenance of building and fixtures

Preferred Qualifications

• Cabinet shop experience
• Experience as a qualified trim carpenter
• Completion of an apprenticeship program
• Advanced carpentry and millwork skills
• Experience interpreting shop drawings and construction documents
• Ability to support projects in occupied healthcare environments while maintaining compliance with applicable safety and regulatory requirements
• Texas Drivers License (TDL) — valid and current with a minimum of three years’ verifiable driving history; waiver may be requested for less than three years but with at least one year of driving history

Pay

Salary range: Minimum $69,000 – Midpoint $86,000 – Maximum $103,000

Schedule

Flexible work schedules may be considered, including 8-hour and 10-hour schedules, but must remain flexible to meet client needs. Remote work is not available for this production-based position.

Benefits

• Employer-paid medical coverage starting day one for employees working 30+ hours/week
• Optional group dental, vision, life, AD&D, and disability insurance
• Accruals for PTO and Extended Illness Bank, plus paid holidays
• Wellness, childcare, and other leave options
• Tuition Assistance Program after six months of service
• Access to extensive wellness, fitness, and employee resource groups
• Defined-benefit pension through the Teachers Retirement System
• Voluntary retirement plans
• Employer-paid life and reduced salary protection programs