Leading Hand Carpenter – Custom Homes & Renovations
Location: Geelong, Surf Coast & Bellarine Peninsula
Employment Type: Full-time, ongoing
Reports To: Director / Site Foreman
Wage: Competitive and dependent on experience.
About ARCA Build
ARCA Build is a premium residential builder specialising in custom homes and high-end renovations across Geelong, the Surf Coast, and the Bellarine Peninsula.
Our projects are known for:
* Exceptional attention to detail
* Clear, transparent communication
* Structured systems and efficient delivery
* High-quality, design-driven outcomes
We work alongside leading consultants and skilled trades, and we're looking for someone who shares our commitment to craftsmanship and excellence.
The Role
As a Leading Hand Carpenter, you will play a key role in delivering both custom homes and renovation projects. This is a hands-on role where you will also lead a small team, coordinate trades, and keep projects running smoothly on site.
This role is ideal for a qualified carpenter with strong experience who is ready to step into leadership and grow within a high-performing team.
Key Responsibilities
Site Leadership & Coordination
* Lead and mentor a small team of carpenters and apprentices
* Oversee day-to-day site operations with a strong focus on safety, quality, cost and schedule.
* Maintain strong relationships with trades
* Take ownership of site progress, ensuring projects stay on track
Carpentry & Construction Works
* Deliver high-quality carpentry across custom homes and renovations
* Install structural and architectural elements in line with plans and specifications
* Read and interpret drawings, engineering details, and documentation
* Maintain a consistently high standard of finish
Problem Solving
* Identify and resolve issues efficiently as they arise
* Make informed decisions to keep projects progressing
* Contribute to construction sequencing and methodology
Communication
* Maintain professional communication with trades, clients and suppliers
* Represent ARCA Build in a polished and respectful manner
* Provide regular updates to the Site Foreman on site progress
Skills & Experience
Essential
* Certificate III in Carpentry (or equivalent)
* Minimum 3 years post-apprenticeship experience
* Strong experience in custom homes and/or renovations
* Ability to lead a team and coordinate trades
* Ability to read and interpret construction drawings
* Own tools and reliable transport
* White Card
* Must have Australian work rights
Desirable
* Experience in architectural or high-end residential builds
* Exposure to complex builds with multiple trades
* Understanding of HIA and VBA standards
* First Aid or CPR certification
What We're Looking For
We're seeking someone who is:
* Organised and proactive, able to take ownership of a project
* Detail-focused, with pride in delivering high-quality work
* Calm under pressure and solutions-driven
* Professional and personable with clients and trades
* A strong team player who contributes to a positive site culture
* Motivated to grow into future leadership roles
Performance Measures
Success in this role will be measured by:
* Safety and compliance on site
* Quality of workmanship
* On-time and on-budget project delivery
* Leadership and team performance
* Client satisfaction and communication
Why Join ARCA Build
* Be part of close-knit, friendly, high-performing team
* Work on premium custom homes and renovation projects
* Clear pathways for career progression
* Collaborate with trusted trades and consultants
* Competitive hourly rate and long-term stability
* A culture focused on quality, teamwork, and continuous improvement
How to Apply
Please send:
* Your resume outlining your experience
* A short cover letter outlining:
o Why you're a good fit for this role
o Your experience with custom homes and renovations
o What you're looking for in your next role.
o Please avoid generic AI letters- we want to know the real you!
Please note that applications without a cover letter will not be considered and only applicants that are shortlisted will be contacted.