READ THIS FIRST.
If you're a self-motivated tradesperson who already has some real job-site experience and is intentionally building a long-term career in construction, this role was built for you.
This is an entry-level position, but it is not a beginner position. We want you to have some time on a job site already. Half of your day is going to be moving material and staying ahead of the carpenters. The other half is where you learn the trade.
If you're looking for a temporary job, something to "try out," or a place where you can coast, this will not be a fit. KJK Builders & Detroit Decks is a high-standards company. We care deeply about craftsmanship, professionalism, and doing things the right way, even when no one is watching.
We're looking for someone with some real job site experience who wants to sharpen their skills, learn from experienced carpenters, and build a long-term career in the trades. If you take pride in your work, show up on time, and want to grow into a highly capable carpenter, you'll fit in well here.
Company Overview
KJK Builders & Detroit Decks is a design-build construction company based in Clinton Twp, MI. We run two brands under one roof. Detroit Decks is our custom deck building side. KJK Builders handles the interior work, including basements, kitchens, and full remodels. This position works across both, with most of your time spent on decks.
We specialize in high-quality residential and outdoor deck building, with a strong focus on craftsmanship, professionalism, and doing things the right way. Our job sites are organized, our standards are high, and we take pride in building work that lasts. We're looking for a Laborer / Carpenter Apprentice who wants to learn the trade properly, contribute to a solid team, and grow into a highly capable builder.
Job Summary
The Laborer / Carpenter Apprentice role is an entry-level, hands-on position designed for someone who wants to learn residential construction from the ground up. You'll work directly under experienced carpenters and project leaders, assisting with daily job site tasks while learning proper techniques, sequencing, and job site expectations.
A large part of this position is moving and staging material. That means deck boards and framing members from the driveway to the backyard, and tile and flooring from the delivery vehicle into the house and up or down stairs. Keeping material moving is what keeps the carpenters building, and it is expected of you every day.
This is not a "show up and watch" role. You'll be expected to work hard, ask questions, take direction, and steadily improve your skills. If you're dependable, coachable, and take pride in your work, this role can grow into a long-term career at KJK/DD.
What You'll Be Doing
- Moving materials from driveway/vehicle to work site i.e. deck boards/framing members to backyard; tile/flooring from delivery vehicle into house up/down stairs
- Work under the direction of a Lead Carpenter to complete daily job site tasks
- Assist with rough and finish carpentry, including:
- Deck framing, footings, posts, beams, and joists
- Deck boards, railings, and stairs, including composite and PVC systems
- Doors, windows, base, case, and finish trim
- Cabinet installation and finish details
- Perform demolition, drywall patching and remodel support work
- Fabricate and install assemblies as directed
- Assist with moving, staging, and installing appliances and materials
- Operate power tools safely and efficiently (saws, nail guns, cordless tools)
- Learn to read and understand construction plans
- Maintain daily job site cleanliness, organization, and safety
- Anticipate upcoming construction steps so you're not waiting to be told what to do
- Use proper materials and correct installation methods for each task
What Success Looks Like
- You show up on time, every day, prepared and ready to work
- Tasks are completed correctly, safely, and efficiently
- You take feedback well and apply it quickly
- You steadily require less supervision over time
- Job sites stay clean, organized, and professional
- Leads and teammates can rely on you
What We're Specifically Looking For
- Someone with 1–5 years of hands-on construction experience
- Exposure to one or more of the following: framing, finish carpentry, siding, doors, windows, or cabinets
- Someone who wants to build a career, not just collect a paycheck
- Strong work ethic, personal accountability, and attention to detail
- Ability to take direction without ego and improve through feedback
- Someone who thinks ahead instead of waiting to be told every step
- Pride in tools, materials, job site cleanliness, and finished work
Requirements
- Some prior construction experience (not brand new)
- Own basic hand tools and cordless tools
- Reliable transportation and cell phone
- Physical ability to lift, carry, climb, and work on your feet all day
- Ability to carry material on every job, in every kind of weather
- Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
- Valid driver's license
- Must live in or be able to commute to Clinton Twp, MI
- Pre-employment drug screen
- Background check
Who This Is Not For
This role is not a fit if:
- You're looking for short-term or temporary work
- You struggle with punctuality or reliability
- You need constant supervision to stay productive
- You don't take feedback well or get defensive when corrected
- You bring an ego onto the job site
- You think moving material is beneath you
- You're careless with tools, materials, or job site cleanliness
- You're not interested in growing your skills or taking on more responsibility
Schedule
- 5 days a week, 8 hour shifts (Monday–Friday)
- Occasional schedule adjustments based on project needs
Compensation & Benefits
- Hourly pay of $20 to $26, based on the experience and skills you bring in
- Health insurance benefits
- Paid holidays
- Paid vacation and paid time off
- Clear growth path into higher-level carpentry roles
- Stable, professional work environment
Application Instruction
In one or two sentences, tell us why you chose construction as a career and what kind of future you're working toward. Applications without an answer will not be reviewed.
Pay: $20.00 - $26.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Health insurance
- On-the-job training
- Paid time off
- Tools provided
Application Question(s):
- In one or two sentences, tell us why you chose construction as a career and what kind of future you're working toward.
Applications without an answer will not be reviewed.
Work Location: In person
