Furniture Finishers
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
FinisherFurniture FinisherLacquer SprayerSprayer
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey 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
| 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
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
Intuit QuickBooksMicrosoft Office software
Technology Skills
DuPont ColorNetDuPont Spies Hecker WizardWeb browser software
Tools & Equipment
Adjustable hand clampsAdjustable handwrenchesAir compressorsAutomatic nail gunsBaking ovensBarrel tumblersBelt sandersCanister-type face masks