Lead Carpenter- Historic Barn Restoration

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 ) with the likely opportunity for a long-term role in our growing on-farm construction operation.

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.

• 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

• 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

• 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

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.

• 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

• 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

• 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
• Funding: USDA Organic Market Development Grant (secured)
• Compensation: $55-75k annually based on experience
• Long-term opportunity: Pathway to partnership for committed team members
• Housing: Affordable housing available for team members

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
• 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.