Shape, finish, and refinish damaged, worn, or used furniture or new high-grade furniture to specified color or finish.
SOC: 51-7021.00
Common Job Titles
Finisher
Furniture Finisher
Lacquer Sprayer
Sprayer
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
Hands-onPerform furniture refinishing procedures including sanding, staining, and sealing using power sanders, spray guns, and hand tools to achieve specified color and finish quality.
Proficient
KnowledgeEvaluate furniture condition and finish requirements by inspecting structural integrity, surface damage, and wear patterns to determine appropriate restoration approach.
Developing
Hands-onOperate power finishing equipment including belt sanders, orbital sanders, and spray painting machines following safety protocols and production standards in workshop settings.
Developing
KnowledgeApply knowledge of wood characteristics, finishing materials, and chemical properties to select appropriate stains, sealants, and finishing techniques for different furniture types.
Developing
Hands-onExecute surface preparation techniques including stripping, sanding, and filling using hand tools and mechanical equipment to prepare furniture for refinishing.
Developing
KnowledgeAssess finish quality against customer specifications and industry standards through visual inspection and quality control analysis during and after finishing processes.
Developing
MindsetEngage with customers to understand restoration preferences and finish expectations demonstrating service orientation and active listening to ensure satisfaction.
Developing
KnowledgeSolve finishing challenges including color matching, grain enhancement, and defect correction by analyzing material properties and applying creative finishing techniques.
Developing
Hands-onManipulate hand-finishing tools including brushes, scrapers, chisels, and graining combs to achieve specialized finish effects and detail work on high-grade furniture.
Developing
KnowledgeCoordinate multiple finishing projects and workflow priorities using time management and organizational skills to meet production deadlines.
Developing
Hands-onCalibrate spray painting equipment and mixing ratios to ensure consistent finish application and color accuracy across furniture pieces.
Developing
MindsetRespect workplace safety requirements and environmental regulations when handling finishing chemicals, operating equipment, and disposing of hazardous materials.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Furniture Finishers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
14,230
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $31,200. 25th percentile: U.S. $36,770. 50th percentile: U.S. $42,530. 75th percentile: U.S. $49,020. 90th percentile: U.S. $59,820. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$31,200
10% of workers earn the following or more
$59,820
Workers on average earn
$44,310
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Production and Processing3.3/5
Mechanical3.0/5
Design2.9/5
Education and Training2.8/5
English Language2.8/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
