North Pole Carpenter

Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Co; Durango (CO); On-site; USD 30,000 - 37,000; Full time

Job summary

Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Co is seeking a North Pole Carpenter for the Polar Express Train Ride. This seasonal, hourly role focuses on constructing, installing, maintaining, and repairing North Pole set pieces to keep guest-facing environments safe and immersive.

You will work with Facilities Maintenance to ensure all structures meet safety standards and licensing requirements, with potential transition to a year-round role in Durango during the off-season.

Qualifications

• Experience in commercial, residential, theatrical, or scenic carpentry.
• Ability to read blueprints and project plans.
• Strong problem-solving and organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently with multiple departments.
• Flexibility for evenings, weekends, holidays, and extended hours.

Responsibilities

• Assist with construction, installation, maintenance, and repair of North Pole Set Pieces.
• Ensure scenic structures are safe and guest-ready during the season.
• Perform inspections and preventative maintenance on North Pole Sets.
• Maintain inventory of tools, equipment, and materials.
• Train and mentor seasonal staff in construction safety and quality.

Skills

Carpentry

Blueprint reading

Problem solving

Tools

Woodworking tools

Metalworking tools

Job description

Division/Department: Facilities MaintenanceJob Title: North Pole CarpenterReports To: Facilities Maintenance SupervisorType of position: Non-Exempt, HourlyEmployee Classification: Regular Full-TimePay Range: $22-$27Location: Durango, COPosition SummaryThe North Pole Carpenter is responsible for construction, installation, maintenance, and repair activities within the North Pole areas of The Polar Express Train Ride. This position ensures all scenic structures, guest-facing environments, and themed elements are maintained to the highest standards of safety, quality, and presentation while supporting the operational success of the event.The North Pole Carpenter works closely with Facilities Maintenance and Special Events team to ensure all structures meet licensing requirements, company standards, and operational deadlines.This is a seasonal position with the intent of transitioning into a year-round Facilities Maintenance role based in Durango during the off-season.Essential Duties and ResponsibilitiesAssist with construction, installation, maintenance, and repair of all North Pole Set Pieces.Ensure all scenic structures are safe, structurally sound, and guest-ready throughout the operating season.Perform inspections and preventative maintenance on North Pole SetsMaintain high standards of craftsmanship and attention to detail to preserve the immersive guest experience.Ensure all work complies with safety regulations and company policies.Uphold all licensing and brand standards established for The Polar Express Train Ride, ensuring scenic elements accurately reflect approved designs and presentation requirements.Coordinate with Facilities Maintenance and Operations to prioritize repairs with minimal disruption to daily operations.Assist with planning and execution of annual build schedules, seasonal improvements, and post-season tear down or storage.Maintain inventory of tools, equipment, and building materials.Promote a safe work environment by following OSHA regulations and company safety procedures.Train and mentor seasonal staff in proper construction techniques, safety practices, and quality expectations.Respond to maintenance needs and emergency repairs as required during event operations.Other Duties as assignedQualificationsExperience in commercial, residential, theatrical, or scenic carpentry.Previous experience leading or supervising construction or maintenance crews preferred.Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record required.Strong knowledge of woodworking and metal working tools, construction methods, and safe work practices.Ability to read blueprints, construction drawings, and project plans.Excellent problem-solving and organizational skills.Ability to work independently while collaborating with multiple departments.Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, holidays, and extended hours during the operating season.Physical RequirementsFrequently lift and carry up to 50 pounds.Ability to climb ladders, work from lifts, and perform work at heights.Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, crouch, and work outdoors in varying weather conditions for extended periods.Ability to safely operate power tools and construction equipment.Support the mission of delivering an exceptional and immersive Polar Express guest experience.