At Schnabel, we take pride in creating a family-friendly work culture that goes beyond just professional relationships. Strong bonds form not only between coworkers but also within families. One example of this is the father-son duo of Darwin Jimenez Sr. and Darwin Jimenez Jr., who have both found growth and success in their careers with Schnabel. Here’s their story.
Meet Darwin Jimenez Sr.
20 years ago, Darwin Jimenez Sr. began his career at Schnabel as a Laborer with the Group North field team. Through hard work, he transitioned to a pile driver position, where he plays a key role in installing piles for excavation support on construction projects throughout the Mid-Atlantic region. His experience and expertise have made him a key part of Schnabel’s field team.
Meet Darwin Jimenez Jr.
Inspired by his father’s passion for construction, Darwin Jimenez Jr. joined Schnabel 5 years ago. Hired by Schnabel Foreman Tom Ward, Darwin Jr. started as a laborer and apprentice pile driver, and quickly rose through the ranks to become a foreman for Group North.
What It’s Like to Work Together
Although Darwin Sr. and Darwin Jr. have different responsibilities due to their different roles, they often collaborate to solve problems on the job. They’ve developed a healthy balance, ensuring that work doesn’t spill over into their home life. By maintaining clear boundaries between work and family, they’ve both been able to find success in their careers while maintaining a strong relationship outside of work.
Strengthening Family Bonds Through Work
The bond between the Jimenez duo has always been strong, but working together has brought them even closer. Darwin Jr. remembers how he always looked up to his father as his hero growing up. Now, working alongside him every day, that admiration remains as strong as ever. For both father and son, their time at Schnabel has strengthened their relationship, and they feel lucky to share these experiences together.
Projects they’re Proud to Have Worked On Together
Among the various projects they’ve worked on, one stands out in particular: the Georgia Ave, Walter Reed project. This was Darwin Jr.’s first time running a job as a Foreman, with his father serving as his lead Pile Driver. It was a defining moment for both, as it was the first time their roles changed. The project was a success, and both look back on it with pride.
The Benefits of Working Together
For Darwin Sr., the most rewarding part of working with his son is the opportunity to witness his growth and success firsthand—something many fathers don’t get to experience. Darwin Jr. finds it equally rewarding to work with his father, taking pride in watching over him and ensuring his safety on the job so that he always returns home to his mother.
Supporting His Son’s Decision to Join Schnabel
When Darwin Jr. first expressed interest in joining Schnabel, his father’s reaction was nothing but support. While it was hard for Darwin Sr. to see his son adjust to the work in the beginning—still thinking of him as “little Darwin”—he encouraged him and saw him tough it out. Now, watching Darwin Jr. grow and succeed in the company brings much pride for Darwin Sr.
For Darwin Jr., working alongside his father has been one of the greatest experiences. He learns from him every day, and the bond between them continues to grow.
What Makes Schnabel’s Family-Friendly Work Culture Unique?
Darwin Jr. highlights how Schnabel is a very family-oriented company. He’s observed other father-son duos working within the company and appreciates how supportive the environment is for families. The Jimenez family also has cousins and uncles who have worked at Schnabel in the past or still work for the company.
Join The Jimenez Family Legacy at Schnabel
Are you interested in joining a company that values both family and career growth, as the Jimenez family has experienced, Schnabel could be the perfect fit for you. Visit our careers page to explore the nationwide opportunities we have available at Schnabel.
