Upholstery Trainer & Development Coach

Job Details: Job Location: Century Chair Plant 3 - Hickory, NC, Position Type: Full Time, Salary Range: Undisclosed, Job Shift: Day, Turn Your Craftsmanship Into Someone Else's Career

Are you an experienced upholsterer who takes pride in exceptional craftsmanship and enjoys helping others learn?

We are seeking applicants for a newly created position as an Upholstery Trainer & Development Coach to help develop the next generation of furniture craftspeople.

This is an opportunity to use your technical expertise in a different way—teaching, mentoring, encouraging, and helping others discover their talents and build rewarding careers in furniture manufacturing.

What You'll Do

Teach upholstery skills through hands-on demonstrations, instruction, and practical training.
Assess individual strengths, technical aptitude, and opportunities for improvement.
Coach and motivate trainees, helping them build confidence, craftsmanship, and production-ready skills.
Evaluate progress, provide constructive feedback, and maintain quality and performance expectations.
Help existing associates develop new skills and advance their careers.
Partner with our recruiting team to visit area high schools, vocational programs, and furniture academies.
Deliver engaging presentations to groups of students, teachers, and community partners, including hands-on upholstery demonstrations.
Build relationships with vocational teachers and educational partners.
Complete a Supervisor Training Program to strengthen coaching and leadership skills.

Qualifications: What We're Looking For

At least 7 years of experience in high-quality residential furniture upholstery; 10+ years preferred.
Excellent craftsmanship, technical knowledge, and attention to detail.
Patience, strong one-on-one communication skills, and a genuine interest in teaching others.
Ability to recognize individual strengths and adapt instruction to different learning needs.
Strong presentation skills, including the ability to speak confidently and comfortably in front of groups.
Ability to engage and build positive relationships with students, trainees, teachers, and educational partners.
A positive, encouraging approach combined with clear performance expectations.
Willingness to travel locally for occasional school visits and educational events.

Previous teaching or supervisory experience is helpful but not required. Your ability to connect with people and help them succeed is as important as your technical expertise.

Candidate Assessment & Screening

As part of the selection process, candidates will complete a strengths assessment to help evaluate their suitability for teaching, coaching, mentoring, and developing others.

Employment offers will be contingent upon successful completion of a post-offer and annual background check, conducted in accordance with applicable laws and company policy. Because this position involves interacting with high school students and visiting school campuses, candidates must also meet applicable school district requirements for campus access and student engagement.

Help Preserve a Craft. Build a Future.

Join the Rock House Designer Brands as we help pass along the craftsmanship, skills, and traditions that make our furniture so exceptional. Apply today and help develop the next generation of skilled furniture craftspeople.