This is primarily a teaching position…responsible for leading unskilled volunteers and owner/builders in all phases of residential construction. Applies in-depth (or working knowledge) of residential building codes and city of Helena inspection requirements to ensure homes are built properly. Assists Construction Manager in organizing and managing the construction of homes using the Mutual Self Help and Habitat for Humanity construction methods. Teaches, directs, and works with groups of families in the construction of their homes. Provides motivation and coaching to participants and volunteers for an effective work environment. Teaches tool and workplace safety and maintains safe working conditions, providing daily safety briefings to volunteers. Assists Construction Manager in preparing bid specs and reviewing bids. Assists Construction Supervisor with overseeing the work of subcontractors and the timely availability of materials. Maintains tools and equipment inventory. Maintains all necessary documentation in a timely manner.
- Assists with the bidding system, distributes bid packets to appropriate subcontractors as needed and accepts bids as required by following the bidding guidelines.
- Assures that all the homes are constructed according to certified plans, specifications and building codes in an efficient and expert manner so that all phases of each home pass all inspections.
- Assists in scheduling subcontractors in accordance with the Construction Schedule and assures their work is done well and in a timely manner.
- Schedules and participates in all inspections carries out by the USDA/RD and local building inspectors.
- Trains unskilled workers in building skills.
- Provides a daily safety briefing to families and volunteers.
- Assists participants during the construction phase to encourage maximum participation. Helps resolve individual family and group-related problems and provides input on labor-saving practices and record keeping systems.
- Works closely with the Construction Manager and Self-Help program staff to ensure proper coding of purchase requisition and payment to vendors.
- Understands and respects individuality of participant members and is able to provide frequent case management, motivation, and constructive feedback to insure participant group cohesiveness.
- Maintains complete, accurate, and timely records as required. Maintains tool and equipment inventory. Responsible for proper maintenance and care of all construction tools and equipment.
- Keeps all aspects of construction in compliance with all applicable regulations, standards, and codes.
- Maintains strong lines of communication with all Mutual Self Help Housing personnel.
- Performs other related duties as required.
- Knowledge: 3 – 5 years construction experience required. Must have knowledge of all phases of residential home construction. Knowledge of local building codes a plus. Must be able to learn USDA/RD's Section 523 and Section 502 programs and policies. Must have a residential construction background including but not limited to foundations, framing, roofing, plumbing, electrical, HVAC and finishing.
- Skills: This position requires skills in all phases of residential construction, including methods, terminology, reading of blueprints, appropriate materials and applications of materials. Teaches tool and workplace safety and maintains safe working conditions. Position also requires strong interpersonal communication skills both orally and in writing; precise record-keeping; working with and motivating groups of individuals.
- Abilities: This position requires the ability to assist in organizing and overseeing one or more building sites from start to finish. Ability to teach building skills to unskilled workers and volunteers; follow procedures; communicate effectively orally and in writing; follow verbal and written instructions; establish effective working relationships with fellow employees, director, participants, volunteers and neighbors; pay attention to detail and accuracy; patiently work with and understand the needs of individuals with varying socioeconomic levels; ease situations involving stress or conflict. Ability to manage 15-20 volunteers and Mutual Self-Help participants in construction tasks. Kindness, flexibility, and ability to speak publicly and communicate the mission of Mutual Self-Help and Habitat for Humanity to groups of volunteers.
- Additional training in construction techniques is preferred.
- Three years experience in residential construction.
- Coaching or volunteer management desired.
- Must possess a valid Montana driver's license.
- Must have reliable transportation.
- Must be insurable for driving.
- CPR/First Aid certification