Part-Time or On-Call Furniture Restorer
Position Overview:
Auctions at Showplace is seeking an experienced Furniture Restorer to work on a part-time or on-call basis. This position is best suited to someone with strong practical restoration and repair skills who works efficiently, follows direction well, and understands the importance of working to the level requested for each piece.
Much of the furniture we handle comes from estates and requires basic, practical preparation for sale rather than extensive restoration. Some pieces require more specialized or detailed work, while others require only basic preparation. We will provide direction on the appropriate level of restoration for each piece, and we need someone who can follow that direction and execute the work efficiently.
We are looking for someone who can do the work requested, keep projects moving, and avoid spending unnecessary time on work that has not been requested.
Responsibilities:
- Furniture Preparation and Restoration: Perform a range of work including basic repairs, stabilization, cleaning, touch-up, veneer repair, surface treatment, hardware repair, and other preparation needed to make furniture sale-ready.
- Follow Direction: Take clear direction from the Showplace team regarding the appropriate level and scope of work for each piece. Be comfortable carrying out basic repairs and preparation when that is what is requested, as well as more detailed restoration when specifically directed.
- Work to the Specified Scope: Follow instructions regarding how much work should be done on each item. The goal is to complete the work requested—not to add unnecessary restoration or additional work beyond the agreed scope.
- Efficiency and Productivity: Work at a practical pace and keep projects moving. We handle a high volume of property, often on tight deadlines, and need someone who can complete assignments efficiently and move on to the next piece.
- Quality When Required: When a piece requires more detailed or specialized restoration, carry out that work carefully and professionally. At the same time, understand that many estate pieces simply require straightforward repairs or basic preparation for sale.
- Auction Preparation: Prepare furniture for photography, cataloging, exhibition, and sale while following the level of restoration and preparation specified by the Showplace team.
Requirements:
- Demonstrated experience in furniture restoration, repair, or a related field.
- Strong practical knowledge of furniture construction, materials, finishes, and repair techniques.
- Ability to follow instructions and work to a specified scope.
- Ability to work efficiently in a high-volume, deadline-driven environment.
- Ability to complete straightforward work without unnecessarily expanding the scope of the assignment.
- Ability to work independently while communicating with the Showplace team when questions arise.
- Flexibility and availability for assignments, including occasional short-notice projects.
- Experience with antique, mid-century, and designer furniture is preferred.
The Right Person for This Job:
The ideal candidate is an experienced restorer who takes pride in their work, works efficiently, and understands that the appropriate level of restoration will vary from piece to piece and will be determined by the Showplace team.
Some projects will require considerable skill and attention to detail. Many others will require only a straightforward repair or basic preparation for sale. We need someone who can take direction, do the work requested at the appropriate level, and keep things moving.
This is a hands-on, fast-paced auction environment, and the ability to balance good workmanship with efficiency is essential.
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: $22.00 - $25.00 per hour
Benefits:
Work Location: In person