Journeyman Carpenter/Maintenance Technician
Reports to: Assistant Director of Facilities
Location: The Thacher School – Facilities Department
Job Type: Full-Time
Status: Non Exempt
About The Thacher School
The Thacher School is one of the most selective and highly regarded boarding schools in the nation. Founded in 1889 by Sherman Day Thacher, the School serves academically talented students from over 20 states and close to 10 countries in a rigorous college preparatory experience. More than 54% of students identify as people of color. The faculty and students live and work closely together on a 427-acre campus nestled in the foothills of the Los Padres National Forest in Ojai, California (85 miles north of Los Angeles). Honor, fairness, kindness, and truth are the cornerstones of School life. Together, the School community commits to the belief that demands in the academic classroom, when combined with those of mountains and horses, of sports and the arts, produce independent minds, strong bodies, and powerful character. The School enrolls 250 students, has an operating budget of $25 million, and an endowment of $180 million.
The Thacher School is dedicated to providing equal opportunities to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran’s status, or any other factor that is a prohibited consideration under applicable law.
Position Summary
We are looking for a dedicated professional with strong craftsmanship, a solid work ethic, and the ability to collaborate effectively. The ideal candidate will have at least 10-15 years of professional carpentry experience (including 5+ years at the Journeyman level) and a passion for high-quality work. This position requires flexibility to assist with various tasks beyond carpentry, including painting, event set-ups, moving furniture, and lifting 50 lbs or more as needed to support school operations. The Journeyman Carpenter/Maintenance Technician will also be responsible for maintenance, repair, and new construction projects while ensuring safety, efficiency, and adherence to school policies.
General Expectations
Adhere to all Thacher School policies as outlined in the staff handbook, as well as safety procedures set forth in the Facilities Department, staff meetings, and training sessions.
Maintain a professional, helpful, and supportive demeanor when interacting with colleagues, supervisors, and members of the school community.
Perform work in a safe and conscientious manner while contributing to the overall health and safety of students, faculty and staff.
Be flexible and willing to assist in school events, maintenance emergencies, and other departmental tasks as required.
Demonstrate general experience in maintenance tasks, including but not limited to plumbing, electrical work, HVAC repair, roofing, and service on various building and plant systems.
Key Responsibilities
Consult and report to the Assistant Director of Facilities concerning carpentry task management and assignments.
Perform a variety of carpentry tasks, including framing, finish work, cabinetry, drywall installation, and structural repairs.
Purchase materials and equipment as needed, keeping accurate records of shop inventory.
Assess and determine proper methods and procedures for completing carpentry assignments efficiently.
Estimate time, materials, and labor needed for projects and material purchases.
Inspect windows, doors, floors, and structural fixtures to identify and prioritize needed repairs.
Participate in maintenance budget planning and execution for carpentry projects.
Maintain records of work orders and projects, reporting progress to the Director of Facilities.
Work with contractors on planned carpentry projects, coordinating estimates and approvals with the Director of Facilities.
Support additional school operations, such as painting, event set-ups, moving furniture, and general maintenance tasks.
Participate in an on-call emergency response team for urgent facility issues.
Supervise a team of 1-3 individuals as assigned by the Assistant Director of Facility Operations
Qualifications
At least 10-15 years of professional carpentry experience (including 5+ years at the Journeyman level).
Strong finish detail work and craftsmanship skills.
Experience reading and interpreting blueprints, schematics, and technical drawings.
Knowledge of building codes, safety regulations, and best practices.
Awareness of occupational hazards and adherence to safety protocols.
Experience constructing, repairing, and altering walls, doors, furniture, and cabinetry according to sketches, blueprints, manuals, and work orders.
Proficiency in using hand tools, power tools, and woodworking machinery safely.
Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently and collaboratively.
Valid driver’s license and ability to operate school vehicles.
Experience in HVAC and electrical systems is a plus.
Preferred Skills
Plumbing, HVAC, and Electrical troubleshooting
Project management
Strong track record of supervising vendors
Strong track record of supervising other colleagues to complete work on time and within budget
Physical Requirements & Working Conditions
Proficient manual dexterity to operate hand tools, equipment and machinery.
Ability to work with cars and trucks, extension ladders, and elevated work areas above one story.
Ability to bend, reach overhead, and lift/move heavy objects such as appliances, furniture, and equipment.
Capable of working safely in confined spaces both above and below ground.
Must be able to lift and safely carry up to 50 lbs
The ability to climb and work in confined spaces above and below ground.
The ability to use tools and equipment to accomplish carpentry assignments is necessary.
We are committed to providing a supportive and rewarding work environment for our employees.
Physical Requirements
The physical requirements described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. As prescribed by law, reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Other Requirements
A current (or ability to obtain) California driver license with a satisfactory motor vehicle record. A criminal background check must be successfully completed before employment can begin. Able to do required amounts of walking, bending, stooping, squatting, and reaching.
Salary Range
The hourly range is $38-$45 per hour. Final hourly rate is based on experience relevant to the role and internal equity. Thacher offers a competitive total rewards package, which includes a retirement 403(b) match, healthcare coverage, paid time off and a broad range of other benefits.
Application Process
If you are interested in applying, please send a resume or work history with the subject line “Journeyman Carpenter/Maintenance Technician
Schedule:
This is a full-time, non-exempt hourly position. Work hours are generally Monday through Friday, 7:00 am to 3:30 pm while on Thacher campus. Must be able to work nights, weekends and holidays on occasion as needed for school functions and general facility support.