What opportunities are there to work with CR? 

​In 2025, we’re offering a work exchange program, including the Builder B.E.E.S role where you will build brand new energy efficient homes for homeowners. More information on this, and other opportunities can be found here.

 

Does CR exist anywhere else? How hard is it to start a program like this? 

CR is totally unique to Moab! As far as we know, there are no other self-help housing programs which focus on sustainable building. We are happy to help you on your journey if starting a program is one of your goals. The best way to get a sense of how CR runs is to come work with us! You can check our available opportunities, or shoot us an email at recruitment@communityrebuilds.org.

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The Builder B.E.E.S.

What skills are taught in the CR Builder B.E.E.S. program? When I graduate, will I be able to build my own house? ​

The Community Rebuilds Builder B.E.E.S. program focuses on foundational, conventional and sustainable building skills. Becoming a master builder is a lifelong journey! Unless you come in with prior building experience and/or put in substantial self-study outside of CR, it is unlikely you will be ready to build your own home right after the program. However, we are sure you'll be more excited and confident about the possibilities after building with us! By working on our build site, you’ll have the potential to gain experience with building principles, straw stacking, reading plans, natural plasters, and more.

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How will I make an impact on sustainable, affordable housing?

The Builder B.E.E.S. and other long-term volunteers are a critical part of making affordable housing happen. Typically, the USDA Rural Development Mutual Self Help Program that finances our homes requires homeowners to complete 40 hours of labor per week on their homes. Community Rebuilds is a pilot program approved by the USDA RD to have “dedicated volunteers” on the build site completing a significant amount of construction labor and allowing the homeowners’ hour requirement to be just 23 hours a week. Because of these dedicated volunteers – like the Builder B.E.E.S. – low-income Moab residents have a more accessible opportunity for homeownership and can build their homes without significant sacrifices to jobs, education, etc.

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Can I apply for more than one Builder B.E.E.S. term?

In an effort to further promote the movement of building sustainably and making our opportunities inclusive, we will only recruit B.E.E.S. one term at a time. If at the end of your B.E.E.S. term a spot opens up for the following term, you can apply.

 

Can I come late or leave early? 

We do occasionally make exceptions for individual situations. However, due to the needs and nature of our project, we heavily prioritize those who are able to come for the full term. Please send in your application and we will be happy to discuss your specific situation during your interview.

 

Can I do the program with my partner or best friend? 

Yes! You can apply with your partner and we will make every effort to get you both in together. 

 

Do you accept international applicants? 

Yes! International applicants are responsible for securing their own Visa. We will provide a letter stating that you have been accepted to our program and a date by which you will need to have secured a Visa. We love working with our international B.E.E.S.!

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Can I bring my dog/cat/gerbil?

There is limited pet-friendly housing on campus in our Cottage. For more information and to check availability, please indicate in your application that you have a pet and we will discuss the possibilities with you.

 

What time off will I have? 

The Builder B.E.E.S. program requires that participants contribute a an average of 32 hours per week on a 4 day work week over the course of their term. This equates to a certain number of hours required (more information on our opportunities page). Any time-off taken in a given week will be expected to be made up by the end of the term. There are occasional evening events such as group dinners, workshops, and educational panels, but otherwise your evenings and weekends will be free.

 

Can I get a second job? 

Yes. Moab is a seasonal town, so work in the service industry is abundant. However the program is a big commitment, and working in construction for 32 hours per week is exhausting. We want you to be able to both enjoy the internship and engage in the community. If you do take on a second job, we recommend starting with only 1-2 shifts per week.​​