Senior Carpenter

DEPARTMENT

Construction Operations

LOCATION

Various construction sites across Newcastle

REPORTS TO

Lead Carpenter / Site Supervisor

ROLE SUMMARY

The Senior Carpenter at SABR is an experienced and highly skilled carpenter responsible for delivering carpentry works to SABR's standards of quality, accuracy and efficiency across high-end residential construction projects.

The role requires a strong understanding of the complete carpentry process, the ability to independently interpret project documentation, and the capability to complete complex carpentry, set-out and detailing tasks with minimal supervision.

Senior Carpenters are expected to take ownership of their work areas, identify and resolve issues before they affect following trades, support the Lead Carpenter and Site Supervisor in delivering project outcomes, and assist in developing apprentices and less experienced carpenters.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Carpentry Work

• Perform high-quality hands-on carpentry across all stages of residential construction.

• Complete complex carpentry and detailing tasks independently and accurately.

• Implement SABR carpentry systems to ensure work zones are set up correctly and tasks can be completed efficiently.

• Use task outcome analysis to understand where high levels of precision are required and where tolerances can reasonably be adjusted to improve efficiency without compromising the required outcome.

• Take ownership of assigned work areas and ensure works are completed correctly before progressing to following activities.

2. Plan Execution

• Read, interpret and execute architectural plans, engineering documentation, specifications and 3D models.

• Identify discrepancies, missing information or potential construction issues before commencing work.

• Raise documentation or construction issues with the Lead Carpenter or Site Supervisor before they create rework or delays.

• Maintain a strong understanding of how current carpentry works affect later trades, finishes and construction activities.

3. Quality Assurance

• Ensure all carpentry work meets SABR quality standards, project documentation and applicable Australian building requirements.

• Check completed work before handover to following trades.

• Identify defects or inaccuracies early and rectify them before they affect subsequent construction.

• Maintain a high level of attention to detail, particularly on architectural and visually exposed elements.

4. Task Execution and Productivity

• Work with the Lead Carpenter or Site Supervisor to understand upcoming tasks, priorities and required outcomes.

• Plan personal work activities to achieve efficient task completion.

• Understand expected task durations and actively manage productivity against those expectations.

• Identify opportunities to improve carpentry methods, sequencing and site efficiency.

• Communicate early where planned work is likely to take longer than expected or where other issues may affect delivery.

5. Progress Reporting

• Keep the Lead Carpenter or Site Supervisor informed of progress against assigned tasks.

• Report construction issues, delays, documentation conflicts or material shortages as soon as they are identified.

• Assist in resolving site challenges and provide practical construction input where required.

• Clearly communicate when works are complete and ready for inspection or following trades.

6. Tool and Material Management

• Maintain tools and equipment to ensure a safe and efficient working environment.

• Use materials efficiently and actively minimise unnecessary wastage.

• Monitor materials required for upcoming carpentry activities and communicate requirements before they affect progress.

• Assist with material quantity checks and preparation of material requirements where required.

• Work with the Lead Carpenter and Site Supervisor to ensure materials are stored and positioned effectively to minimise unnecessary manual handling and disruption to site operations.

7. Jobsite Cleanliness

• Maintain a clean, organised and safe work area throughout the day.

8. Training and Mentorship

• Assist in training and mentoring apprentices and less experienced carpenters.

9. Activity Logging

• Maintain accurate daily records of completed carpentry activities.

• Record tasks undertaken, time spent and other required project information.

• Correctly record card expenses and purchases in accordance with SABR systems.

• Provide sufficient information for SABR to understand productivity, costs and progress across carpentry activities.

10. Team Contribution

• Support the Lead Carpenter in maintaining an efficient and productive carpentry team.

• Assist other carpenters where required to achieve project priorities.

• Take responsibility for work delegated by the Lead Carpenter or Site Supervisor.

• Demonstrate professionalism, reliability and accountability on site.

• Contribute practical ideas that improve construction quality, efficiency and site operations.

ABOUT YOU

• Minimum of 5 years experience as a qualified carpenter.

• Advanced carpentry skills with a strong eye for detail.

• Strong understanding of the complete carpentry process for high-end residential construction.

• Ability to independently read and interpret architectural plans, engineering documentation, specifications and technical drawings.

• Strong set-out, measurement and construction detailing skills.

• Ability to identify construction risks and resolve practical site problems.

• Strong understanding of construction sequencing and the relationship between carpentry and following trades.

• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a team.

• Ability to mentor apprentices and less experienced carpenters.

• Strong communication and collaboration skills.

• Strong problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to work.

• Good understanding of productivity, task planning and efficient construction methods.

• Commitment to maintaining high safety and quality standards.

• Comfortable working with digital construction documentation and 3D models.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to perform physical tasks, including lifting, bending and standing for extended periods.

• Comfortable working at heights and in varying weather conditions.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Frequent travel to various sites within Newcastle.

• May involve working extended hours and weekends where required to meet project deadlines.

ABOUT SABR

SABR is an award winning design, build and development company delivering high-end residential projects in the blue chip suburbs on Newcastle. We have a strong focus on delivering quality projects with a focus on innovation and sustainability. We value teamwork, integrity, and excellence, providing a dynamic work environment for our team members.