Who we are

Why Rensselaer?  Nestled on a beautiful 275-acre campus in upstate NY, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute is home to five schools, 32 research centers, three makerspaces, an observatory, one of the world’s fastest supercomputers, and the IBM Quantum System One - the first university-based quantum computer in the world. 

With top notch employee health and retirement benefits, Rensselaer offers its full-time employees a generous paid time off program, tuition remission, and opportunities for career growth.

Job Summary

The Carpenter performs construction, installation, and repair of structures, woodwork, doors, hardware, and glazing systems conforming to state and local building codes. Works as a member of a versatile team performing office/lab fit up, structural and finish system maintenance, remodeling and minor construction projects. Also assists other trades with repair and maintenance work.

In addition to the above, a Sr. Carpenter plans and performs complex construction, installation, and repair of structures, woodwork, cabinetry, hardware, doors, and glazing systems conforming to state and local building codes.

Minimum Qualifications

• HS diploma or equivalent
• Three (3) years general carpentry experience
• Valid US driver license
• Specialized training equivalent to a completed apprenticeship in carpentry

Applicants must meet stated minimum education and experience requirements.

Preferred Qualifications

Minimum Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Must have the ability to become Certified Lead Safe Renovator and ability to meet OSHA’s Lead Handler medical/respirator qualifications.
• Basic knowledge of carpentry and wood working trade shop equipment and tools
• Working knowledge of basic industry trades including plumbing, masonry, roofing, electrical, sheet metal and duct work.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
• Ability to read, write, and perform arithmetic functions
• Ability to read and building from blueprints, drawings and specifications
• Ability to use hand tools and power tools of the trade
• Ability to work on ladders, scaffolding, and personnel lifts
• Ability to work in a team environment or perform independently
• Excellent customer service skills
• Ability to foster an inclusive environment and work with a diverse population

Preferred Knowledge, Skill, and Abilities

As a Sr. Carpenter, candidates must have the minimum knowledge, skills, and abilities listed above, as well as an in-depth knowledge of carpentry, cabinet making, and woodworking trade, shop equipment and tools.

Shift

Business Hours with weekends or evenings occasionally required

Travel

Driving

Driving a personal or campus vehicle for non-passenger use

Starting Salary/Rate

Expected hiring range:

• Carpenter: $23.00 - $26.00 per hour
• Sr. Carpenter $26.50 - $31.46 per hour

Pay transparency disclosure: The selected candidate’s salary will be determined based on factors that include the available budget, internal equity, and the final candidate’s qualifications, experience, education and other job-related credentials. This hiring range is provided as Rensselaer’s good faith estimate of the expected hiring range at the time of posting.

Application instructions

Follow the on-screen prompts to create a brief online profile. Please be ready to upload your resume and cover letter.

If you need assistance with the online application process, please contact careers@rpi.edu.

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

Total Compensation and Benefits Information

Rensselaer’s Total Compensation Program is designed to provide stable pay growth, a comprehensive and affordable benefits package, and a comprehensive and affordable retiree medical and prescription plan. Rensselaer is recognized locally and nationally for the depth and breadth of its compensation and benefits program. Our goal is to provide you and your family with a comprehensive health and welfare program as an umbrella of financial security and protection during your employment. For more information, please visit Benefits | Human Resources (rpi.edu).

We welcome candidates who will bring diverse cultural, ethnic, national and international perspectives to Rensselaer’s work and campus communities.

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity, Race/Gender/Veterans/Disability Employer.