Position Title: Installer Trainee (FDC Training Academy) Reports To: Field Training Supervisor Supervises: None FLSA Status: Non-Exempt (Hourly) Job Summary: The Installer Trainee participates in Fence & Deck Connection’s Training Academy, a structured, paid 30-day development program designed to prepare entry-level individuals for a career in deck and fence installation. This role combines hands-on training with real jobsite experience, where trainees support installation crews while learning foundational construction skills, safety standards, and jobsite expectations. The position requires physical work, teamwork, and the ability to follow direction in a fast-paced outdoor environment. Trainees receive daily coaching, feedback, and performance evaluation. Successful completion of the program may result in placement into a full-time Installer role, with a defined career path into Crew Lead and Project Management positions. Essential Functions (Critical Job Duties): The following duties are essential to the position and must be performed with or without reasonable accommodation. Other duties may be assigned as needed:
- Participate in a structured, hands-on training program on active job sites
- Assist installation crews with deck, fence, and outdoor structure projects
- Load, unload, and transport materials, tools, and equipment
- Prepare job sites by cleaning, measuring, and staging materials
- Support installation by holding materials, securing components, and assisting with assembly
- Safely operate hand and power tools under supervision
- Maintain tools and equipment by cleaning and organizing after use
- Follow all company safety policies and procedures, including proper use of PPE
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment
- Accurately record all hours worked in compliance with company timekeeping policies
- Follow direction from supervisors and crew leads
- Maintain reliable attendance and punctuality as a condition of employment
- Work collaboratively with team members to complete projects efficiently
Success Profile: To be successful in this role, employees must demonstrate:
- Consistent, on-time attendance with minimal supervision
- Strong work ethic and willingness to perform physical labor
- Coachability and ability to apply feedback quickly
- Commitment to safety and following procedures
- Positive, team-first attitude
Employees who consistently demonstrate these behaviors are most likely to successfully complete the Training Academy and advance within the organization. Training & Performance Expectations (30-Day Program): During the Training Academy period, employees are expected to:
- Maintain consistent attendance and punctuality
- Demonstrate physical ability to perform job duties
- Show measurable improvement in installation skills
- Follow all safety procedures without exception
- Respond positively to coaching and feedback
Failure to meet these expectations may result in removal from the program or termination of employment. Education & Experience
- High school diploma or GED preferred but not required
- No prior construction experience required
- Entry-level candidates encouraged to apply
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Strong work ethic and reliability
- Ability to follow instructions and work in a structured environment
- Team-oriented mindset with effective communication skills
- Willingness to learn a skilled trade
- Basic mechanical aptitude and ability to use tools under supervision
- Ability to perform physically demanding work
Physical, Hearing & Vision Requirements
- Ability to lift and carry materials up to 50+ pounds
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, climb, and perform physical labor for extended periods
- Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
- Manual dexterity to safely use hand and power tools
- Ability to hear and respond to verbal instructions, safety warnings, and jobsite communications in a potentially noisy construction environment
- Ability to visually assess work areas, tools, and materials to ensure safe and accurate task completion
- Ability to recognize potential safety hazards and respond appropriately
- Ability to distinguish depth, distance, and spatial relationships for safe use of tools and equipment
Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions. Work Environment: This position requires working outdoors on active construction job sites, including exposure to:
- Heat, cold, and changing weather conditions
- Uneven terrain, elevated work areas, and potential fall hazards
- Construction noise, dust, and materials
- Moving equipment, vehicles, and active work zones
Safety & Compliance Requirements
- Must follow all OSHA guidelines and company safety policies
- Required to wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at all times
- Must immediately report unsafe conditions, incidents, or injuries
- Must participate in required safety training and toolbox talks
- May be required to comply with DOT and driving safety policies when operating vehicles
Additional Requirements
- Must have reliable transportation to job sites
- May be required to operate company or personal vehicles in accordance with company policy and MVR requirements
- Must properly use, maintain, and safeguard company tools and equipment
Compensation & Employment Status :
- Hourly, non-exempt position
- Paid for all hours worked, including training
- Overtime paid in accordance with applicable federal and state laws
Pre-Employment Requirements: Employment is contingent upon successful completion of:
- Background check
- Drug and/or alcohol screening (as applicable)
- Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) check (if applicable)
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: Fence & Deck Connection is an Equal Opportunity Employer. ADA Statement: Fence & Deck Connection will provide reasonable accommodation in accordance with applicable laws. Disclaimer: Fence & Deck Connection/ FDC Academy reserves the right to modify, interpret, or apply this job description as needed to meet business needs. This document does not create a contract of employment and is subject to the Company’s at-will employment policy.