Carpenter Apprentice

About Us

At Downs Construction , we exist to restore lives, the planet, and communities.

Deeply rooted in the local community, we’ve been helping our neighbors recover when disaster strikes for years. Proudly Canadian-owned, we understand the unique challenges of the Island —from flooding risks to extreme weather events—and we’re committed to providing expert restoration services with care and efficiency.

As part of the Pro-Claim Group, we bring industry-leading innovation and sustainability to every project, ensuring that our work not only restores homes but also protects the environment we all cherish. From reducing waste to minimizing our carbon footprint, we’re setting a new standard in restoration—one that puts people and the planet first.

What sets us apart? We put our people first—both our employees and the community we serve.

We know that when our team feels supported, they provide the best service possible. That’s why we invest in professional development, foster a strong team culture, and prioritize work-life balance—because in a place as incredible as Vancouver Island, we know life is about more than just work.

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The Carpenter Apprentice works under the close supervision of a Journeyperson Carpenter and the general direction of the Construction Manager, combining on-the-job training with in-school technical training to learn the carpentry trade and work toward Journeyperson certification. Primarily working on job sites, the Apprentice will gradually take on greater responsibility for determining specifications and calculating requirements, measuring, cutting, shaping, assembling, and joining mouldings, wood materials, drywall, and plastics materials. With a particular focus on restoration work, the Apprentice will develop the hands-on skills, judgment, and attention to detail needed to meet the quality standards of Downs Construction Ltd.

• Maintaining professionalism and presenting Downs Construction Ltd. positively to various stakeholders
• Being able to interpret and create scopes for jobs
• Learning and demonstrating skill in the safe operation of shop tools such as a table saw, radial arm saw, power planer, power shaper, router, a wood lathe, airless paint sprayer, large belt sander, band saw, hand saw and an electric drill
• Following all company policy and standards, including health and safety policies and procedures
• Completing the necessary documentation related to a job to assure a standardized flow to accrue costs of a claim accurately
• Assisting journeyperson carpenters, labourers, and co-workers with job tasks and learning from their experience
• Practicing good housekeeping discipline on the job
• Dealing with a changing work environment daily and developing knowledge of various complex jobs
• Understanding different municipal and provincial building code requirements relevant to a job
• Building knowledge and experience to complete jobs in an increasingly efficient manner
• Learn and perform cabinetry skills as required
• Completing your timecard daily

After completing your probation period of three months, some of the benefits we offer include:

• FREE Extended Health and Dental Benefits!
• Group Retirement Savings Plan (And RRSP Matching!).
• Tuition Reimbursement.
• $500.00 per year for each paramedical service we offer (i.e., massage therapy, physiotherapy, chiropractor).
• $1000.00 per year for Mental Health-related services, such as clinical psychologists, registered clinical counsellors, etc.
• An additional $500.00 per year for single plans and $1000.00 per year for family plans via our Health Care Spending Account to put towards your extended health and dental benefits.
• Long-Term Disability and Life Insurance.

Compensation

Wage: $20.00 - $28.00 per hour (based on experience)

At Downs Construction Ltd., we are a worker-focused organization that values the people doing the work. We believe in clear communication, accountability, and recognizing contributions. Our team members are supported with the tools, training, and leadership they need to succeed. We foster a culture of respect, safety, and continuous improvement where employees are heard, appreciated, and empowered to grow.

Applicants must be legally authorized to Work in Canada

We thank all candidates for their interest; however, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

REQUIREMENTS

• Registered as a Carpenter Apprentice with SkilledTradesBC, or willing and eligible to register
• Willing to attend and complete the in-school technical training required to progress through the apprenticeship
• Must have a valid BC drivers’ license
• Must be able to pass a criminal background check to our approval
• Must be detailed oriented
• Ability to work well alone as well as in a team environment
• Some practical knowledge of carpentry or building maintenance is an asset
• Practical knowledge of workplace safety and safe lifting and handling procedures is preferred
• Basic knowledge of the job is preferred, such as understanding measurements and materials
• Willing and able to work on-call for after hour’s emergency work (4:00 pm – 8:00 am)
• Interest in or exposure to the restoration industry is considered to be an asset
• Strong customer service skills