Lead Hand

Calgary John Howard Society; Calgary; On-site; CAD 55,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A charitable organization in Calgary is seeking a hands-on Lead Hand to support renovation and maintenance projects in a growing social enterprise. The ideal candidate has 3–5 years of experience in renovation and enjoys mentoring others. Responsibilities include supporting day-to-day job execution, crew supervision, and ensuring safety and quality standards. Applicants with criminal records are encouraged to apply as the organization evaluates each application individually. Applications accepted until February 15th, 2026.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3–5 years of hands-on experience in renovation, construction, or building maintenance.
• Experience as a senior crew member, lead hand, or in a similar role.
• Strong practical skills in painting and general renovation work.

Responsibilities

• Support day-to-day renovation and repair work.
• Act as right-hand support to Crew Supervisor.
• Provide training and mentorship to crew members.
• Monitor quality of work and address issues.
• Ensure job sites are safe and compliant.

Skills

Hands-on renovation experience

Leadership skills

Problem-solving skills

Attention to detail

Job description

Overview

The Calgary John Howard Society (CJHS) is a charity that reduces crime and makes Calgary communities safer by helping youth and adults make positive changes and move away from criminal behaviour. We do this by addressing the root causes of crime through housing, education, employment programs and support so that individuals have alternatives to breaking the law. CJHS is committed to restorative justice and an organizational environment that recognizes the dignity and worth of each person. CJHS values diversity and inclusion and welcomes qualified applicants from all walks of life.

The Program: CJHS is seeking a hands-on Lead Hand to support renovation and maintenance projects within our growing construction social enterprise. Working under the Crew Supervisor, the Lead Hand plays a key role in supporting day-to-day job execution, crew supervision, training, and site coordination. This role is ideal for someone with solid trade experience who enjoys mentoring others, stepping into leadership when needed, and contributing to the early development of a purpose-driven social enterprise. The Lead Hand will be a consistent, reliable presence on job sites and a trusted support to both the Crew Supervisor and crew members.

Responsibilities

• Support day-to-day renovation and repair work, including painting, drywall, flooring, basic carpentry, and general maintenance
• Act as the right-hand support to the Crew Supervisor, assisting with job planning, task coordination, and on-site leadership
• Provide hands-on training, guidance, and mentorship to crew members
• Support crew supervision and step in to oversee job sites when the Crew Supervisor is unavailable
• Assist with inventory management, including tracking supplies, identifying shortages, and picking up or ordering materials as needed
• Help ensure job sites are safe, organized, and compliant with Occupational Health & Safety (OH&S) standards and PPE requirements
• Monitor quality of work and help address issues as they arise
• Communicate clearly with the Crew Supervisor regarding job progress, challenges, and crew needs
• Support the completion of jobs on time and to CJHS quality standards
• Contribute to the development of systems, processes, and best practices as the social enterprise grows

Note: The social enterprise will initially focus on painting services, with plans to expand into additional renovation and maintenance work over time.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3–5 years of hands-on experience in renovation, construction, or building maintenance
• Experience working as a senior crew member, lead hand, or in a similar role
• Strong practical skills, particularly in painting and general renovation work
• Comfortable supporting and guiding others on the job site
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail
• Comfortable using mobile devices (phone/tablet) for communication and job tracking
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation

Who You Are

• A reliable, adaptable team player
• Comfortable working in a start-up or early-stage environment
• Respectful, patient, and supportive when working with crew members
• Able to step into leadership when needed
• Motivated by meaningful work and community impact
• Open to collaboration, learning, and continuous improvement

Your past does not define your future. A criminal record will not disqualify you from employment with us; we evaluate each application individually.

Applications will be accepted until February 15th, 2026

Please submit your cover letter and resume to:

The Calgary John Howard Society thanks all applicants; however, only those

considered for an interview will be contacted.