Scaffolder Job Description (Responsibilities, Skills, Duties, and Sample Template)

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If you’ve Googled “Scaffolder job description,” you’ve probably seen the same thing over and over — a few bullet points, some copy-pasted duties, and zero personality. The problem? Generic job descriptions don’t attract great scaffolders. They attract anyone — including people with no trade experience, no safety training, and no real interest in the work.

The truth is, if you want to hire skilled scaffolders who take pride in their craft, your job post needs to do more than list tasks. It should sell the role, give a clear picture of your team and culture, and set expectations that make the right candidates excited to apply.

In this guide, we’re going to do exactly that. We’ll walk through what a scaffolder actually does (in plain English), give you two ready-to-use job description templates, break down why they work, and even show you a “bad” example to avoid. You’ll also get pro tips for standing out, plus a quick-copy version if you need something fast.

Before we dive in, I recommend checking out our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/   — it explains why most generic descriptions fail and how to make yours a magnet for quality applicants.

Don’t let bad hires slow you down.

WorkScreen helps you identify the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.

What A Scaffolder Actually Does - Their Roles

A scaffolder is the person who makes it possible for other trades to work safely at heights. They build, assemble, and dismantle temporary platforms and structures on construction sites, industrial facilities, and sometimes event spaces. But this role is far more than just “putting up scaffolding.”

A good scaffolder understands how to interpret blueprints, choose the right materials, follow strict safety regulations, and adapt to the unique demands of each site. They’re part engineer, part problem-solver, and part safety champion — ensuring that everyone who steps onto their platform can work confidently and without risk.

Reliability, attention to detail, and a strong work ethic matter just as much as physical ability. This is a role for someone who values precision, works well under pressure, and takes pride in building something that others depend on.

Two Great Scaffolder Job Description Templates

We’ll provide two tailored job description options:

1.✅ Option 1: For employers looking to hire an experienced candidates with prior experience.

2.Option 2: For employers open to hiring entry-level candidates or those willing to train someone with potential.

Option 1: Job Description For Experienced Scaffolder (Culture-First Style)

📌 Job Title: Experienced Scaffolder — High-Rise & Industrial (NorthBridge Scaffolding)
 📍 Location: Denver, CO + Front Range sites
 💼 Type: Full-Time | On-Site
 💰 Pay: $28–$36/hr (DOE) + overtime opportunities
 🕒 Schedule: Mon–Fri, 6:30am–3:30pm (occasional weekends during peak)

🎥 A quick word from our Operations Manager
 Watch this 60-second intro from Jacob Ruiz on the work, crew culture, and what success looks like in your first 90 days: [Loom/YouTube link]

Who We Are — NorthBridge Scaffolding
 NorthBridge Scaffolding builds safe access solutions for commercial towers, industrial shutdowns, and heritage restorations across Colorado. For over a decade, contractors have trusted our team for precision planning, clean execution, and a safety-first mindset. We’re a tight, reliable crew that communicates clearly, shows up for each other, and takes pride in building platforms people can depend on.

What You’ll Do

  • Erect, modify, and dismantle tube-and-clamp and system scaffolds to spec.

  • Read/interpret drawings and calculate loads, ties, and bracing.

  • Conduct pre-use inspections; tag, maintain, and stage materials.

  • Coordinate access with site superintendents, trades, and safety officers.

  • Mentor apprentices and uphold NorthBridge safety procedures at all times.

What We’re Looking For

  • 3+ years’ scaffolding experience (commercial/industrial).

  • Valid certification (e.g., OSHA Scaffold Competent Person, CISRS, or equivalent).

  • Solid knowledge of tie patterns, foundations, and fall-protection systems.

  • Reliable transportation; comfortable working at heights and in all weather.

  • Team-first communicator who takes ownership of quality and timelines.

Perks & Benefits

  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage.

  • 401(k) with company match.

  • Paid training & certification upgrades.

  • Tool/boot stipend + all safety gear provided.

  • 10 days PTO + paid holidays; daily overtime available during peak periods.

Why This Role Is a Great Fit

  • Build signature projects you can point to with pride.

  • Work with a steady, respectful crew that values craftsmanship and safety.

  • Clear advancement path to Lead Scaffolder and Foreman roles.

  • Consistent hours with opportunities for premium pay on complex builds.

Our Hiring Process
 We review every application and respond within 10–14 days. Shortlisted candidates complete a short skills evaluation on WorkScreen, followed by a site interview. Finalists undergo reference and safety record checks.

How to Apply
 Apply via WorkScreen: [Insert WorkScreen link]
 You’ll complete a brief practical assessment so we can see your approach to safety, planning, and problem-solving.

Option 2: Job Description For Entry-Level / Willing-to-Train Scaffolder

📌 Job Title: Trainee Scaffolder — Paid Training, No Experience Needed (NorthBridge Scaffolding)
 📍 Location: Denver, CO + Front Range sites
 💼 Type: Full-Time | On-Site
 💰 Pay: $20–$24/hr + overtime + paid certifications
 🕒 Schedule: Mon–Fri, 6:30am–3:30pm

🎥 Meet your future Lead Scaffolder
 Watch this 45-second message from Lead Scaffolder, Maya Thompson, on how our training works and what your first month looks like: [Loom/YouTube link]

Who We Are — NorthBridge Scaffolding
 We’re a Colorado-born scaffolding company that believes in building careers, not just projects. Our customers trust us for safe access solutions on commercial builds, plant maintenance, and restorations. We hire for attitude and teach the craft — if you show up, work hard, and care about safety, we’ll invest in your growth from day one.

What You’ll Do

  • Learn to stage materials, build base plates, and assemble standards/ledgers/braces.

  • Assist with erecting and dismantling scaffolds under supervision.

  • Follow safety checks, tagging, and housekeeping standards.

  • Support site prep, material counts, and end-of-day wrap-ups.

What We’re Looking For

  • No prior scaffolding experience required.

  • Comfortable with physical work, heights, and outdoor conditions.

  • Coachable, punctual, and safety-minded; clear communicator.

  • Driver’s license preferred.

Perks & Benefits

  • Paid OSHA and scaffold certifications (we cover fees and training time).

  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage.

  • Tool/boot stipend + all safety gear provided.

  • 6 days PTO in year one + paid holidays; frequent overtime opportunities.

Why This Role Is a Great Fit

  • Get paid to learn a high-demand trade with a clear raise path.

  • Work in a supportive crew that trains you the right way from day one.

  • Real responsibility and visible progress within your first 90 days.

  • Outdoor, active work with variety—no two sites are the same.

Our Hiring Process
 Simple and respectful: apply on WorkScreen, complete a short aptitude & safety-mindset check, then meet the team. We respond to every applicant within 10–14 days.

How to Apply
 Start here: [Insert WorkScreen link]
 This helps us focus on motivated candidates who are ready to learn and grow.

Hiring doesn’t have to be hard.

If your hiring process is stressful, slow, or filled with second-guessing—WorkScreen fixes that. Workscreen helps you quickly identify top talent fast, eliminate low-quality applicants, and make better hires without the headaches.

Breakdown of Why These Scaffolder Job Posts Work

1. Clear, Specific Titles

Both posts avoid vague titles like “Scaffolder Needed.” Instead, they add role type, experience level, and context — e.g., Experienced Scaffolder — High-Rise & Industrial (NorthBridge Scaffolding) or Trainee Scaffolder — Paid Training, No Experience Needed.
 This instantly filters out irrelevant applicants and draws in candidates who align with the experience level you’re targeting.

2. Personal Video Element

Adding a short Loom or YouTube video from a manager or lead scaffolder builds trust and human connection.
 It lets candidates see the people they’ll work with, hear the tone of the team, and feel more confident about applying — something that static job boards rarely offer.

3. Warm, Contextual “Who We Are” Section

Instead of generic “we are a company that…” wording, each description names a real company, real location, and real project types. This makes the opportunity tangible and relatable, which helps quality applicants visualize themselves on your team.

4. Transparent “Perks & Benefits”

By separating Perks & Benefits from “Why This Role Is a Great Fit,” you highlight tangible rewards (insurance, PTO, overtime, training) first — building trust — and then move into the emotional and career-focused reasons to join.

5. Compelling “Why This Role Is a Great Fit”

This section acts as the sales pitch for the role. It goes beyond duties and perks to show the purpose and culture behind the work — e.g., “Build signature projects you can point to with pride” or “Get paid to learn a high-demand trade.”
 This connects emotionally and speaks directly to the kind of candidates you want.

6. Respectful Hiring Process

Both posts promise a clear application timeline, explain exactly what will happen next, and avoid the cold “only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” line.
 This sets you apart from the majority of construction-related job posts that leave candidates in the dark.

7. Use of WorkScreen Link

The inclusion of a WorkScreen application link makes the process structured, skill-focused, and fair, while also filtering out low-effort applicants.
 It positions your hiring process as modern and professional — something skilled tradespeople notice.

Example of a Bad Scaffolder Job Description (And Why It Fails)

❌ Job Title: Scaffolder
 📍 Location: Denver, CO
 💼 Type: Full-Time

Job Summary
 Looking for scaffolders to join our team. Must be able to work at heights and follow instructions.

Responsibilities

  • Build and dismantle scaffolding.

  • Follow safety guidelines.

  • Work with other trades as needed.

Requirements

  • Prior scaffolding experience preferred.

  • Must be physically fit.

  • Must have a driver’s license.

Pay & Benefits
 Competitive pay.

How to Apply
 Send your resume to hr@company.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Why This Job Post Fails

1. Generic Title

“Scaffolder” is too vague — no indication of whether the role is for entry-level or experienced candidates, what type of projects you run, or why it’s worth applying.

2. Zero Personality in the Introduction

The opening gives no context about the company, the team, or why the work matters.
 It feels like a placeholder post rather than an opportunity someone should get excited about.

3. Weak Responsibilities

Listing “Build and dismantle scaffolding” tells the candidate nothing about scale, complexity, or the importance of safety and precision.
 Good candidates want specifics.

4. Minimal Requirements

While short requirements can make a role feel accessible, here they feel lazy — there’s no clarity on certifications, skills, or teamwork expectations.

5. Vague Pay

“Competitive pay” with no range is a red flag for many skilled tradespeople. It suggests a lack of transparency and can cause serious applicants to move on.

6. Cold Hiring Process

Ending with “Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” feels dismissive and outdated.
 It doesn’t set any expectations for timeline or process, and it risks alienating the very people you want to attract.

Bonus Tips to Make Your Scaffolder Job Post Stand Out

Even with a solid structure, there are a few extra touches that can give your posting a major edge over the generic ones on job boards.

1. Add a Safety & Trust Notice

Skilled tradespeople care deeply about safety — not just on the job site, but also in the hiring process.
 Include a short note like:

“We take the safety and privacy of all applicants seriously. We will never request payment, bank details, or personal financial information during any part of the hiring process.”

This reassures candidates and builds credibility from the very first interaction.

2. Mention Training & Certification Upgrades

Scaffolders value employers who invest in their growth. If you cover OSHA, CISRS, or other certifications, say so clearly:

“We provide ongoing training and certification upgrades at no cost, so you can keep advancing your skills and earning potential.”

3. Include Leave Days & Flexibility

Construction and industrial workers often face long hours in demanding environments. Mentioning PTO or flexible scheduling shows you respect work–life balance:

“Enjoy 10 days paid leave in your first year plus all major holidays off.”

4. Show the Career Path

Many scaffolders want to know they won’t be stuck in the same role forever. Add one line about advancement:

“Clear path to Lead Scaffolder, Foreman, or Site Supervisor roles based on performance.”

5. Include a Short Video Tour

Alongside your hiring manager video, consider a quick site or yard tour. Let candidates see the kind of projects and gear they’ll work with — it builds excitement and makes your post far more engaging.

Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4

6. Highlight Crew Culture

Even in physically demanding roles, culture matters. Share how your crew operates, whether that’s daily safety briefings, weekly BBQs, or celebrating project milestones.

AI Caution — How to Use AI the Right Way for Job Descriptions

AI can be a powerful helper when creating job posts — but if you let it do all the work without your input, you’ll end up with something that looks and feels like every other bland listing online.

🚫 The Wrong Way to Use AI

Typing “Write me a job description for a scaffolder” into ChatGPT or another AI tool and pasting the result straight into your job board.

  • You’ll get generic, recycled phrases that sound corporate and soulless.

  • It will attract anyone and everyone — including unqualified candidates and those who copy–paste AI-generated applications.

  • It fails to reflect your company’s culture, safety standards, or project scope.

  • For skilled trades like scaffolding, it makes you look out of touch with the realities of the job.

✅ The Right Way to Use AI

Treat AI like a skilled copy editor, not your job post writer.

  1. Give it real details about your company — name, location, project types, crew culture, and values.

  2. Specify the candidate type you want — experienced scaffolder for high-rise builds, or entry-level with willingness to train.

  3. Share your perks and pay range so it can write with transparency.

  4. Provide your hiring process — especially if you use WorkScreen to keep things fair and efficient.

  5. Feed it examples you like (such as the experienced and trainee templates in this article) and tell it to mirror the tone.

Example Prompt for a Better AI Output:

“Help me write a job post for NorthBridge Scaffolding, based in Denver, CO. We’re hiring an experienced scaffolder to work on commercial high-rise and industrial projects. We want a warm, approachable tone that shows our safety-first culture and crew teamwork. Pay is $28–$36/hr DOE plus overtime, with 10 days PTO, medical, dental, vision, and training allowances. Include a ‘Why This Role Is a Great Fit’ section, a video element before the ‘Who We Are’ section, and a clear hiring process that uses WorkScreen for applications. Here are a few notes I’ve written to get you started: [paste your notes]”

When you use AI this way, the result will be specific, human, and aligned with your brand — not a cookie-cutter listing that gets lost in the crowd.

Build a winning team—without the hiring headache.

WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing.

Copy-Paste Job Description Templates for Quick Use

We know that sometimes, you just need something solid—fast.

Maybe you’ve read the guide and understand what makes a great job post. But you also want a professional, ready-to-use template you can copy, paste, and customize in just a few minutes.

That’s what this is.

✏️ Important Reminder:
 Don’t copy this word-for-word and expect magic.
 This is a foundation, not a final draft.
 Add a Loom video, inject your team culture, and edit the details to reflect your actual company.

In this section, you’ll find two ready-to-use job description templates for quick copy-paste use — but please remember, like we mentioned above, don’t just copy them word-for-word and expect results.

Think of these as starting points, not final drafts.

  • Option 1: A more conversational, culture-first job description that highlights personality and team fit.
  • Option 2: A more structured format, including a Job Brief, Responsibilities, and Requirements for a traditional approach.

✅ Option 1: Conversational Job Description Template (Culture-First Style)

Job Title: Experienced Scaffolder — Build with Safety & Precision at [Company Name] 💼 Location: [City, State] (projects across [Region]) 🕒 Type: [Full-Time/Part-Time] 💰 Salary Range: [$X–$Y]/hour

🎥 Meet Your Crew Leader
 Watch this short message from our Operations Manager on how the crew works and what success looks like in your first 90 days: [Video Link]

Who We Are
 At [Company Name], we’re the access team other contractors trust for safe, precise, and reliable scaffolding. From [project types: e.g., high-rise commercial/industrial shutdowns/heritage restorations], we deliver clean execution and a safety-first mindset. We’re a tight, respectful crew that communicates clearly and takes pride in building platforms people can depend on.

What You’ll Do

  • Erect, modify, and dismantle [system/tube-and-clamp] scaffolds to spec.

  • Read/interpret drawings; calculate loads, ties, and bracing.

  • Inspect/tag materials and maintain safe, organized staging areas.

  • Coordinate with site supervisors, trades, and safety officers.

  • Mentor apprentices and uphold [Company Name] safety procedures.

What We’re Looking For

  • [3+ years] scaffolding experience ([commercial/industrial] preferred).

  • Valid [OSHA Scaffold Competent Person/CISRS/other]

  • Strong knowledge of foundations, tie patterns, and fall protection.

  • Reliable transport; comfortable with heights and all weather.

  • Team-first communicator who owns quality and timelines.

Perks & Benefits

  • [Medical/Dental/Vision]

  • [401(k)/pension] with company match.

  • Tool/boot stipend + all safety gear provided.

  • Paid training & certification upgrades.

  • [X] days PTO + paid holidays; overtime opportunities.

Why This Role Is a Great Fit

  • Build signature projects you can point to with pride.

  • Work with a steady, respectful crew that values craftsmanship and safety.

  • Clear advancement path to [Lead Scaffolder/Foreman/Site Supervisor].

  • Consistent hours with premium pay on complex builds.

Our Hiring Process
 We review every application and respond within [10–14 days]. Shortlisted candidates complete a brief skills evaluation on WorkScreen, followed by an interview. Finalists may undergo reference and safety record checks.

How to Apply
 Apply via WorkScreen: [WorkScreen Link] — complete a short, practical assessment so we can see your approach to safety, planning, and problem-solving.

✅ Option 2: Structured “Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements” Format

Job Title: [Entry-Level/Experienced] Scaffolder at [Company Name] 💼 Location: [City, State] (projects across [Region]) 🕒 Type: [Full-Time/Part-Time] 💰 Salary Range: [$X–$Y]/hour

Job Brief
 [Company Name] is hiring a [Entry-Level/Experienced] Scaffolder to support [high-rise/commercial/industrial/heritage] projects. You’ll help build safe access structures that keep teams productive and protected.

Responsibilities

  • Erect, alter, and dismantle scaffolding per project requirements.

  • Interpret drawings/blueprints for loads, ties, and bracing.

  • Conduct daily inspections; maintain compliance with [OSHA/local]

  • Coordinate with supervisors, trades, and safety personnel.

  • [If entry-level:] Learn safe setup, tagging, and material management.

Requirements

  • [For experienced:] [3+ years] scaffolding experience; valid [OSHA/CISRS/etc.]

  • [For entry-level:] No experience required; must be comfortable with heights and physical work.

  • Reliable transportation; ability to work outdoors in varying conditions.

  • Safety-first mindset and clear communication.

Perks & Benefits

  • [$X–$Y]/hour + [overtime differentials/premium pay].

  • [Medical/Dental/Vision]

  • Tool/boot stipend + safety gear provided.

  • [X] days PTO + paid holidays.

  • Paid training and certification upgrades.

Why Join Us
 Be part of a skilled, respected crew that takes pride in quality and safety. Expect consistent hours, real growth opportunities, and work you can be proud of.

How to Apply
 Apply via WorkScreen: [WorkScreen Link] — a fair, skill-based process that helps us focus on the right candidates.

Let WorkScreen Handle the Next Step of Hiring

Once your scaffolder job post is live, the real challenge begins — sorting through applicants to find the ones who can actually do the job. That’s where WorkScreen.io comes in.

WorkScreen helps you:

  • Quickly identify your most promising candidates.

WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—making it easy to spot top talent, save time, and make smarter, data-driven hiring decisions.

  • Easily administer one-click skill tests.

With WorkScreen, you can administer one-click skill tests to assess candidates based on real-world ability—not just credentials like résumés and past experience. This helps you hire more confidently and holistically.

  • Eliminate low-effort applications.

WorkScreen automatically eliminates low-effort applicants who use AI Tools to apply, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply.” This way, you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.

With a strong job post and a smart screening process, you can fill your scaffolder role faster, reduce costly hiring mistakes, and build a crew you can count on.

🔗 Ready to start?

 Create your job post in WorkScreen.io, share the unique application link, and let our platform handle the evaluation process from start to finish — so you can get back to building.

FAQ — Scaffolder Job Description

Look for a combination of technical skills and personal attributes.

  • Technical: Proficiency in erecting and dismantling scaffolding systems, understanding of load capacities, ability to read blueprints, and knowledge of relevant safety regulations.
  • Personal: Strong communication, attention to detail, reliability, teamwork, and the ability to stay calm under pressure. In many cases, a safety-first mindset is just as important as technical ability.

In the United States, scaffolders typically earn between $22 and $35 per hour, depending on location, experience level, and project complexity. Entry-level positions may start around $18–$22 per hour, while highly experienced scaffolders on specialized or high-risk projects can command rates of $40 per hour or more.

  • In many regions, yes. Common certifications include OSHA Scaffold Competent Person (U.S.), CISRS (UK), or equivalent local credentials. Even where it’s not legally required, certification increases employability and demonstrates a strong safety commitment.

Relying solely on résumés without assessing practical skills. Scaffolding is hands-on, so performance-based evaluations (like those in WorkScreen) are crucial to confirm candidates can safely and efficiently handle real-world tasks.

Make Your Next Great Hire With WorkScreen

Easily streamline your hiring process with AI-powered applicant scoring, automated skill testing, and a credit-based system that ensures you only pay for quality applicants. Perfect for teams serious about hiring top talent.

Author’s Details

Mike K.

Mike is an expert in hiring with a passion for building high-performing teams that deliver results. He specializes in streamlining recruitment processes, making it easy for businesses to identify and secure top talent. Dedicated to innovation and efficiency, Mike leverages his expertise to empower organizations to hire with confidence and drive sustainable growth.

Hire Easy. Hire Right. Hire Fast.

Stop wasting time on unqualified candidates. WorkScreen.io streamlines your hiring process, helping you identify top talent quickly and confidently. With automated evaluations , applicant rankings and 1-click skill tests, you’ll save time, avoid bad hires, and build a team that delivers results.

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