Leading Hand Carpenter | Queenstown

About the Role

‍The best Leading Hands don't stand back and point—they roll up their sleeves and lead by example.

Max People is recruiting on behalf of Calder Group for an experienced Leading Hand Carpenter to join a major commercial retail development on Hawthorne Drive, Queenstown. Reporting directly to the Site Foreman, you'll lead a small crew of 2–3 carpenters while remaining actively involved in the day-to-day construction work.

From structural framing and exterior works through to internal framing and fit-out preparation, you'll help coordinate the team's workflow, maintain high-quality workmanship, and keep the project progressing safely and efficiently. This is the ideal opportunity for an experienced carpenter who's ready to step into a leadership role—or an established Leading Hand looking to join a respected commercial contractor with ongoing opportunities beyond the current project.

If you're the type of leader who earns respect by getting stuck in alongside your crew, you'll fit right in.

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‍What's In It For You

• Competitive hourly rates with weekly pay
• Lead a small, experienced crew on a major commercial project
• Immediate start with ongoing opportunities beyond the current build
• Join Calder Group, one of New Zealand's leading commercial contractors
• Supportive site leadership and well-organised projects
• Transport options available from Cromwell

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What You Will Be Doing

• Leading a crew of 2-3 carpenters on site
• Timber framing to exterior structures
• Installing RAB board and cavity battens
• Completing internal framing ready for lining
• General builders' work supporting subcontractors
• Assisting with day-to-day site coordination and workflow management
• Maintaining strong health & safety standards on site
• Ensuring work is completed to programme and quality standards

What We Require

• Proven experience in commercial carpentry
• Previous Leading Hand or crew leadership experience preferred
• Strong understanding of commercial framing systems and methodologies
• Ability to read and interpret plans
• Ability to work to project programmes and deadlines
• Reliable, motivated, and able to work independently
• Strong communication and leadership skills
• Own tools and reliable transport preferred
• Ability to pass a pre-employment drug test
• Valid NZ working rights

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About Calder Group

Calder Group is one of New Zealand's leading commercial construction companies, delivering large-scale industrial, commercial, and retail projects across the country. Known for quality workmanship, strong leadership, and investing in great people, they've built a reputation for delivering projects the right way. This is an opportunity to join an experienced team where your leadership, craftsmanship, and practical approach will be recognised and valued.

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‍ALL APPLICANTS MUST HAVE THE LEGAL RIGHT TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND

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Why Choose Max People?

‍Max People is a trusted recruitment partner with 15+ years' experience connecting great people with great workplaces. What started in construction has grown into one of the country's leading labour-hire and recruitment providers across construction, civil, agriculture, dairy, manufacturing, and logistics.

When you join Max People, you're backed by a team that lives its values: Passion, Empathy, Optimism, Professionalism, Loyalty, and Empowerment. We're here to support your journey, champion your growth, and help you build a future you're excited about.

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