Flooring Substrate Specialist – Flooring Demolition, Moisture Mitigation and Prep

Flooring Substrate Specialist – Full-Time
Portland, Maine | Immediate Openings | Visa Sponsorship Opportunities May Be Available

Paul White Company is a flooring and countertop solutions business servicing both commercial and residential construction projects. Based in Portland, ME, we’ve proudly operated for over 50 years. Our employees, many from diverse cultural backgrounds and trades experience levels, are the key to our continued success. We treat all team members equally, offering the opportunity to grow, learn new skills, and build a long-term career.

We support new Americans, immigrant workers, tradespeople, and those seeking steady, full-time employment. Our goal is for every employee to grow with us and retire from our team, supported by a full benefit package and 401k program. We promote work-life balance, teamwork, and inclusion, and we strive to maintain a strong, respectful company culture.

Purpose of the Role
As a Flooring Substrate Specialist, you will help lay the groundwork, literally, for our quality flooring installations. This job is ideal for individuals who enjoy hands-on work, take pride in craftsmanship, and want to learn a trade with room to grow.

Whether you’re new to the trades, an immigrant worker, or have experience in construction, we provide on-the-job training and advancement opportunities.

Key Responsibilities
– Subfloor Evaluation: Inspect floors for moisture and structural soundness before installation
– Moisture Protection: Apply coatings and barriers to prevent long-term flooring issues
– Surface Prep Work: Use grinding, patching, and leveling techniques to smooth surfaces
– Tool & Equipment Use: Operate grinders, blasters, and mixers (training available)
– Safety First: Wear PPE and follow OSHA guidelines
– Team Support: Communicate with crew leaders, installers, and project managers
– Problem Solving: Help resolve job site issues with practical, reliable solutions
– Site Organization: Keep work areas clean and tools properly stored
– Documentation: Record daily work activities and communicate progress to supervisors

Qualifications & Skills
– Experience in flooring prep, construction, or general labor is helpful but not required
– Ability to lift 75 lbs and stand for long periods
– Basic understanding of tools or willingness to learn
– Reliable, motivated, and able to work as part of a team
– Fluent English not required, non-native English speakers welcome, supportive training provided
– Driver’s license and transportation are helpful

Preferred (Not Required)
– Prior construction or flooring experience
– OSHA 10/30 certification
– Experience with epoxy, self-leveling, or grinding tools
– Background in immigrant trades programs, workforce training, or resettlement services

Compensation & Benefits
– Pay starting at $20-$27 per hour, based on experience
– Weekly pay
– Full benefits: Health, dental, vision, 401k, paid vacation/holidays
– Optional coverage: Short/long-term disability, accident insurance
– Room to advance to other departments or trades within the company

Equal Opportunity Employer.