Lead Carpenter - Historic Barn Restoration & Timber Frame Project

Breadtree Farms | Salem, NY

Opportunity in Traditional Building

Breadtree Farms is seeking an experienced Lead Carpenter to oversee a significant historic barn restoration project that combines traditional timber framing with modern sustainable building techniques. This is a funded, two-year project (2026-2027) with the likely opportunity for a long-term role in our growing on-farm construction operation.

The Project: Restoring & Reimagining Historic Agricultural Buildings

We're transforming 19th-century timber-frame barns in Salem, NY into a modern chestnut processing facility. This project offers the rare opportunity to work extensively with traditional timber frames and historic restoration techniques on an innovative working agroforestry farm.

Scope of Traditional Building Work

Historic Restoration:

• Careful disassembly and documentation of historic timber frame components
• Restoration of slate roofing systems and traditional flashing
• Cupola restoration and preservation
• Integration of salvaged and historic materials

Timber Frame & Natural Building:

• Working with existing timber frame structures (mortise & tenon joinery)
• Harvesting and mill timbers on-site
• Application of traditional joinery techniques
• Integration of natural insulation systems alongside the timber frames
• New slate roofing with a mixture of new and salvaged material

Modern Building Science:

• Installation of high-performance building envelope systems
• Continuous exterior insulation compatible with historic structures
• Moisture management for long-term timber preservation
• Balancing historic character with modern performance

Our Construction Philosophy

We embrace a design/build philosophy that honors traditional techniques while solving real-world agricultural needs. We have sawmill capacity on-site, allowing us to harvest and dimension timbers from the property. While you don't need to be a professional timber framer, you should be excited to deepen your skills in traditional joinery, natural materials, and historic preservation.

Who Should Apply

Required Experience:

• 5+ years professional carpentry experience
• Track record managing renovation and adaptive reuse projects
• Experience with both historic restoration and modern construction techniques
• Proficiency reading construction documents and traditional timber frame plans
• Understanding of building codes and successful permit processes
• Skilled problem-solver comfortable with the uncertainties of old buildings

Valued Skills (not required):

• Timber framing or heavy timber construction experience
• Knowledge of traditional hand tool techniques
• Experience with natural building materials (clay, lime, wood fiber insulation)
• Historic preservation experience

Leadership & Teaching:

• Ability to lead and mentor a small crew
• Strong communication with project stakeholders
• Willingness to share craft knowledge and teach traditional techniques
• Self-motivated with excellent problem-solving skills

Project Details & Compensation

• Timeline: Construction beginning 2026, completion late 2027
• Funding: USDA Organic Market Development Grant (secured)
• Compensation: $55-75k annually based on experience
• Benefits: PTO, sick days, professional development/training stipends
• Long-term opportunity: Pathway to partnership for committed team members
• Housing: Affordable housing available for team members
• Location: Rural farm setting in Salem, NY (Upper Hudson Valley)

Why Work with Breadtree Frames

This isn't just a construction job—it's an opportunity to practice your craft in service of a regenerative farm helping to build a regional food system. We're committed to:

• Quality craftsmanship over speed
• Continuous learning and skill development
• Sustainable, locally-sourced materials
• Long-term relationships with our team

To Apply

Please email noah@breadtreefarms.com with:

• a simple summary of your interest and your relevant experience.
• If you have pictures of your work you'd like to share, go ahead.
• References from recent projects (employers, clients, whoever you think can help us understand how you work).
• Resume welcome but not required.

We are an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse team.