ABOUT THE ROLE

Outpost Vans is seeking a skilled Cabinetry & Carpentry Technician I to join our custom vehicle build team. This role focuses on the fabrication, finishing, and installation of premium cabinetry and wood components for high-end adventure vehicles.

This is not production cabinetry or residential framing. Our work demands precision, creativity, and craftsmanship in a mobile, off-road automotive environment. This position will also support upholstering and finishing interior panels, installing third-party accessories (interior and exterior), and modifying or adapting third-party components to ensure proper fit, finish, and compatibility with Outpost Vans products and build standards. The ideal candidate takes pride in fit and finish, works efficiently, and thrives in a collaborative, fast-moving shop.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

• Construct cabinet boxes, drawers, faces, countertops, and custom wood components
• Fabricate parts accurately from cut lists, drawings, CAD outputs, or verbal direction
• Sand, prep, and finish cabinetry and wood components to project specifications
• Apply finishes as required
• Upholster, wrap, or finish interior panels using fabric, vinyl, or other specified materials
• Install cabinetry, interior panels, and components into vehicles with precision and care
• Install third-party accessories and components, both interior and exterior
• Modify or adapt third-party components to ensure compatibility with Outpost Vans® products and vehicle constraints
• Fabricate or adjust mounting solutions as required for proper fit and durability
• Perform self-inspection and quality checks prior to install and final delivery
• Maintain fit, finish, and durability standards suitable for premium, off-road vehicles
• Communicate clearly with team members across fabrication, install, and engineering
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe workspace
  
  

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Custom automotive / vehicle conversion shop
• Small-batch, high-detail fabrication (not mass production)
• Work performed both in the shop and inside vehicles
• Confined spaces, kneeling, bending, and overhead work required
• Exposure to dust, adhesives, and finishes (PPE provided)

TOOLS & EQUIPMENT

Outpost Vans provides all primary tools, machinery, and equipment required to perform this role in accordance with California labor laws.

Employees may choose to use personal hand tools (such as measuring tools or small specialty items) at their discretion; however, personal tools are not required for employment.

All required safety equipment and personal protective equipment (PPE) will be provided by the Company.

TOOLS & TECHNICAL EXPERIENCE

Comfortable using:

• Table saw, miter saw, band saw
• Planer, routers (hand & table), Drill press, hand drills, impact drivers
• Measuring, layout, and precision tools

Preferred (not required):

• CNC machining experience
• CAD familiarity (Fusion 360, SketchUp, or similar)
• Blum, Southco, or similar cabinetry hardware
  
  

SKILLS & FINISHING EXPERIENCE

• High skill level in sanding, surface prep, and finish-ready detailing
• Experience with hardwoods, plywood, Baltic birch, and laminates
• Knowledge of finishes, clear coat, oil-based, and UV finishes
• Ability to produce consistent, blemish-free finishes
• Understanding of grain direction, veneer protection, edge treatment, and sheen matching
• Experience masking, protecting adjacent surfaces, and preventing finish contamination
• Familiarity with hand-applied finishes and power-assisted sanding tools
• Ability to follow finish schedules, cure times, and manufacturer specifications
• Strong attention to detail in final touch-ups and quality control

Preferred (not required):

• Spray finishing experience (HVLP or similar)
• Understanding of finishes suitable for vibration- and moisture-prone environments
• Experience upholstering or wrapping panels using fabric, vinyl, or similar materials
• Familiarity with adhesives, fasteners, and finishing techniques for interior panels
• Experience installing third-party accessories and aftermarket components
• Ability to modify or adapt third-party components for custom applications while maintaining a clean fit and finish
• Understanding of interior and exterior installation best practices for vehicles

QUALIFICATIONS

• 0–2 years cabinet shop or related carpentry experience
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record
• Ability to Commute: Oceanside, CA 92058 (Required)
• Automotive or vehicle upfitting experience is a plus
• Able to stand and walk for extended periods; use hands and arms for handling, reaching, and tool operation. Frequently lifts up to 75 lbs. and occasionally more than 100 lbs.

Physical Requirements:
The physical demands described are representative of those required to perform the essential functions of this job, with or without reasonable accommodation, in accordance with FEHA and ADA.

PAY & SCHEDULE

• Pay Range: $22.00 – $28.00 per hour
  Compensation is based on experience, skill level, and demonstrated craftsmanship.
• Full-time, on-site position
• Monday – Friday schedule
• Occasional weekend work may be required based on project needs
• Non-exempt (hourly)
• Overtime paid in accordance with California law
• Paid on a regular payroll schedule in accordance with California law
  
  

BENEFITS

• 401(k)
• Paid sick leave in accordance with California law
• Paid time off (PTO) in accordance with California law
• Paid holidays
• Employee discount on gear and accessories
• Opportunities for skill growth and advancement
  
  

CALIFORNIA EMPLOYMENT COMPLIANCE

Outpost Vans is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable California employment laws. This position is full-time, non-exempt, and at-will.

Outpost Vans maintains workers’ compensation insurance as required by California law. Reasonable accommodations will be provided in accordance with the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States. Employment may be contingent upon successful completion of a background check in accordance with California law.

WHY OUTPOST VANS

We build premium adventure vehicles designed to last. Our shop values craftsmanship, collaboration, and problem-solving. This role is ideal for someone who wants to work on unique, high-end projects and take pride in building some of the best vehicles in the industry.

Interested in applying?

Fill out the job application form below!