Next Step - Lead Carpenter

Who We Are

Next Step is the social enterprise arm of Mel Trotter Ministries. Our construction division does residential and light commercial work for paying customers, and every dollar of profit funds workforce development for people rebuilding their lives after homelessness. Many of the people on our crews are trainees learning the trade for the first time.

Our approach is rooted in compassion, consistency, and accountability, with a focus on meeting immediate needs while supporting long-term stability. Through collaboration and a shared sense of purpose, our team works each day to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those we serve.

What You’ll Lead

As a Lead Carpenter, you’ll own a job site end to end—turning plans into finished spaces while helping others grow in the trade. This role exists to deliver customer-ready craftsmanship, keep work moving on schedule, and set a high bar for safety and quality.

Key responsibilities:
- Direct daily site work from layout through punch list; set priorities and drive production
- Perform and oversee framing and finish work (trim, doors/windows, decks, siding, remodels)
- Read plans/scopes, solve field issues early, and coordinate materials, subs, inspections, and on-site customer communication
- Maintain safety standards, quality checks, documentation, and care of tools/vehicles
- Coach trainees and give clear, respectful feedback

Required qualifications:
- 5+ years hands-on carpentry; 2+ years leading a crew/site
- Strong blueprint reading, layout/math, and Michigan code familiarity
- Valid driver’s license/clean record, basic hand tools, ability to lift up to 75 lbs

Your Day, On Site

Your morning starts in Grand Rapids by mapping out the day’s game plan, then you’re on site setting a steady pace—hands-on, focused, and practical. You’ll spend most of the day building alongside the crew, moving between detailed finish tasks and real-time problem-solving as conditions shift.

In the gaps, you’ll glance at the schedule, confirm materials are arriving when they should, and keep communication crisp when customers, inspectors, or subs stop through. Teaching happens in the flow: a quick demonstration, a small correction, a moment that turns uncertainty into confidence. You finish by leaving the site clean and walkthrough-ready, with clear notes so tomorrow starts strong.

Benefits That Back You

Get covered and keep moving: medical, dental, vision, 401(k), PTO, and employee discounts.

If you're ready to run your site and build work you'd proudly recommend, apply today!