Upholstery Technician – Auto & Home Furniture
Location: Boise, Idaho
Company: McDowell's Specialty Repair
Position Type: Full-Time
Compensation: $18–$33/hour + Commission (Total Earnings: $37,000–$68,000+)
Who We Are
McDowell's Specialty Repair is a family-owned business specializing in high-quality upholstery work for automotive and home furniture. Whether it's reupholstering classic car seats, restoring a family heirloom sofa, or giving new life to worn-out dining chairs, we take pride in craftsmanship that lasts. Our team values skill, attention to detail, and the satisfaction of transforming something old into something beautiful.
The Opportunity
We're looking for a skilled upholstery technician (or someone eager to learn the trade) to join our team. This is a hands-on, craftsman-level position with commission potential and long-term career growth. You'll work on a diverse range of projects—from car interiors to residential furniture—while being supported by a team that values quality and continuous improvement.
What You'll Do
- Reupholster furniture and auto interiors: Strip, repair, and reupholster chairs, sofas, car seats, boat & RV cushions, and more
- Pattern making and fabric cutting: Create templates, measure materials, and cut fabric or leather to precise specifications
- Sewing and stitching: Use industrial sewing machines to construct cushion covers, seams, and decorative elements
· Finishing work: Install trim, buttons, piping, and other decorative details with precision
What We Offer
- Competitive pay: $18–$33/hour base + commission on completed projects (typical total earnings: $37,000–$68,000+)
- Training and mentorship: Learn from experienced upholsterers and refine your craft
- Full benefits package:
- 401(k) with employer match
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision & dental discounts
- Employee discounts
- Tuition reimbursement
- Referral bonuses
- Fully equipped shop: Access to industrial sewing machines, pneumatic staplers, cutting tables, and all necessary tools
- Variety of work: No two days are the same—work on everything from vintage cars to modern home furniture
- Growth potential: Advance to lead upholsterer or shop supervisor roles
Our Core Values
- Integrity – Do what's right, even when no one's looking
- Willingness – Be teachable, hungry, and humble
- Structure – Follow the process—it creates freedom
- Relationships – Respect your team and customers
- Excellence – Don't settle. Aim for exceptional.
What We're Looking For
The ideal candidate:
- Has upholstery, sewing, or furniture restoration experience (or strong desire to learn)
- Possesses excellent hand-eye coordination and attention to detail
- Can read patterns, take accurate measurements, and work with various fabrics and materials
- Is comfortable using industrial sewing machines and hand tools
- Has basic carpentry or woodworking skills (a plus, not required)
- Is physically capable of lifting furniture and standing for extended periods
- Takes pride in producing high-quality, professional work
- Holds a valid driver's license (occasional pickups/deliveries)
Schedule
- Monday to Friday, 8-hour shifts
- Occasional Saturdays as needed
- Overtime available
- Year-round work
Why McDowell's?
Upholstery is a dying art, and we're committed to keeping it alive. This is your chance to learn or refine a skilled trade that combines creativity, precision, and tangible results. At the end of each day, you'll see exactly what you've accomplished—and so will your customers. If you want to work with your hands, build something meaningful, and be part of a team that values craftsmanship, we'd love to hear from you.
Job Type: Full-time
Work Location: In person
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $37,000.00 - $68,000.00 per year
People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply
Work Location: In person
