Qualified Builder / Senior Carpenter – Architectural Homes
$35–$45+ per hour | Cambridge, Waikato | Full-time
Come build proper architectural homes with a good crew across Cambridge & the Waikato.
Are you an experienced qualified builder looking to take your skills to the next level? Or an accomplished senior carpenter ready for more responsibility and the opportunity to progress into a foreman role?
MDB Homes is looking for a skilled, motivated builder to join our growing Cambridge-based team.
We're open to candidates at different stages of their careers — from experienced qualified carpenters through to senior tradespeople with proven leadership ability.
What matters most is your workmanship, initiative, attitude and commitment to building quality homes.
We specialise in architectural new homes, high-end renovations and lifestyle projects. Our work is varied, technically challenging and built to a high standard — the kind of projects you can be proud to put your name to.
The Role
You'll be working across:
Architectural new homes
High-end renovations & extensions
Rural and lifestyle property projects
This is a hands-on carpentry role where you'll be encouraged to take ownership of your work, solve problems and contribute to the success of each project.
Our builds involve detailed architectural drawings, complex construction junctions and high-quality finishes, so accuracy, planning and attention to detail are essential.
For experienced senior carpenters, there's the opportunity to take greater responsibility for coordinating work, mentoring other builders and helping lead projects.
For qualified carpenters looking to develop, you'll have the opportunity to build on your existing skills, gain exposure to challenging architectural work and progress within the company.
What We're Looking For
We're after capable, motivated tradespeople who take pride in doing things properly.
You'll bring:
A recognised carpentry qualification and solid residential building experience
Experience in architectural or high-quality residential construction
Confidence reading plans and working through construction details
A high standard of workmanship and attention to detail
The ability to work independently, think ahead and solve problems
Good communication skills and a positive, team-focused attitude
Reliability, initiative and pride in your work
A full driver's licence and your own hand tools
Architectural building experience is strongly preferred, but we're also interested in exceptional qualified builders with strong technical skills and the motivation to develop further.
For those interested in a senior or future foreman role, we're particularly interested in your ability to organise work, coordinate trades, support junior staff and lead by example.
We value people who take responsibility, communicate well and contribute positively to the team around them.
What's On Offer
$35–$45 per hour, depending on experience and ability
Higher remuneration or a tailored package considered for exceptional candidates, particularly those bringing strong senior-level experience and leadership capability
Interesting, high-quality architectural projects with genuine variety
A skilled team that takes pride in its workmanship
Clear planning, organised sites and systems that support quality work
Genuine opportunities for career development and progression
Potential company vehicle or fuel allowance for the right candidate
Company phone and tablet where appropriate to the role
A growing business with long-term opportunities
We recognise the value of good tradespeople and are prepared to reward exceptional skill, initiative and leadership.
Opportunity to Grow
We're not simply looking for someone to fill a position. We're looking for the right person to grow with MDB Homes.
Whether you're a qualified carpenter wanting to further develop your skills or an experienced senior builder looking for your next challenge, there's an opportunity to build a long-term career with us.
For those with the right ability, attitude and ambition, this could mean progressing into a senior carpenter, leading hand or foreman position as the business continues to grow.
We back people who think ahead, solve problems, take ownership and help lift the standard of the team around them.
The Team
We take our work seriously — but not ourselves all the time.
There's plenty of banter on site, a few laughs throughout the day, and we make an effort to get off site together too — whether that's a Chiefs game, a fishing trip or a pub lunch.
We're building a team of good tradespeople who respect each other, take pride in their work and are always looking to improve.
We're looking for someone who brings both skill and a great attitude — someone who'll make the team stronger.
Considering a Move to the Waikato?
If you're an experienced builder based elsewhere in New Zealand, we'd still like to hear from you.
Cambridge offers a great lifestyle, while putting you close to Hamilton, the Coromandel, Bay of Plenty and Taupō — with plenty of good hunting, fishing and outdoor opportunities nearby.
For the right person, we're open to discussing how we can help make a move to the Waikato work.
About MDB Homes
MDB Homes is a Cambridge-based residential building company specialising in architectural new homes, high-end renovations, extensions and lifestyle projects throughout Cambridge, Hamilton and the wider Waikato.
Our focus is on thoughtful planning, quality workmanship, clear communication and building homes we're proud to hand over.
Homes that Complement Your Land and Lifestyle.
Interested?
Apply through SEEK with your CV and a brief outline of your building experience.
If you're considering a change but would prefer a confidential conversation first, let us know in your application.
Whether you're an experienced qualified carpenter or an established senior builder looking for your next opportunity, we'd like to hear from you.