Aircraft Upholsterer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the aviation industry, the role of aircraft upholsterers is more vital than ever.

As the sector evolves, the need for skilled individuals who can design, restore, and maintain the upholstery within our aircraft continues to grow.

So, what is truly expected from an aircraft upholsterer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the ideal candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricate details of aircraft upholstery,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable aircraft upholsterer job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Aircraft Upholsterer Duties and Responsibilities

Aircraft Upholsterers are primarily responsible for the interior aesthetics of the aircraft, specifically the condition and appearance of the upholstery.

They need to have a keen eye for detail, be precise in their work, and ensure safety standards.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Evaluating the condition of the upholstery, seats, and interiors of the aircraft
• Removing and replacing upholstery as required, ensuring it matches the aircraft interior
• Repairing or replacing damaged or worn-out upholstery, including seats, carpets, curtains, and other aircraft interior elements
• Stitching, sewing, and fitting the upholstery using appropriate tools
• Working closely with materials such as leather, vinyl, and fabric, selecting appropriate ones for different aircraft types
• Maintaining cleanliness and organization of work area, tools, and equipment
• Ensuring all work meets quality and safety standards, following aviation regulations
• Communicating with aircraft maintenance crew to understand specific requirements
• Ordering upholstery supplies and materials as needed

 

Aircraft Upholsterer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a meticulous Aircraft Upholsterer to design, fabricate, and install upholstery in aircraft interiors.

The Upholsterer’s responsibilities include interpreting design requests, selecting suitable materials, and ensuring that all upholstery conforms to the design specifications and safety standards.

A successful Aircraft Upholsterer should have a keen eye for detail, hands-on experience in upholstery, and a deep understanding of various materials and fabrics used in aircraft upholstery.

Ultimately, you will help create comfortable, safe, and aesthetically pleasing interior environments for our aircrafts.

 

Responsibilities

• Designing, fabricating, and installing upholstery for aircraft interiors, such as seats, wall panels, curtains, etc.
• Interpreting and working according to design specifications or customer requirements.
• Selecting and sourcing upholstery materials that meet design and safety standards.
• Performing upholstery repairs and maintenance as required.
• Working closely with interior design and engineering teams to ensure design intent is maintained.
• Ensuring all work complies with federal, state, and company regulations.
• Maintaining clean and safe work areas.
• Keeping records of material usage, work progress, and any issues encountered.

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as an Upholsterer, preferably within the aviation industry.
• Knowledge of upholstery techniques and proficiency in using hand and power tools.
• Ability to interpret and work according to design specifications.
• Excellent hand-eye coordination and attention to detail.
• Understanding of safety standards and regulations in aviation upholstery.
• High school diploma or equivalent. Training in upholstery or a related field is a plus.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Aircraft Upholsterer
• Work Environment: Hangar or workshop setting. May require working in confined spaces within aircrafts.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Upholstery Team Lead or Workshop Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $40,000 minimum to $60,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Aircraft Upholsterer Do?

Aircraft Upholsterers are skilled professionals who work predominantly in the aviation industry, often as part of a larger aircraft maintenance and repair team.

Their primary role is to ensure the interior comfort and aesthetic of an aircraft.

They are responsible for the repair, replacement, and refurbishment of the upholstery found within an aircraft.

This includes seats, carpeting, curtains, and other fabric or leather elements of an aircraft’s interior.

Their tasks include measuring and cutting materials, sewing fabrics, and installing finished upholstery pieces.

They use a variety of tools such as scissors, needles, and industrial sewing machines.

Aircraft Upholsterers also inspect and assess the condition of existing upholstery, determining whether it can be repaired or if replacement is necessary.

They are skilled at matching colors and patterns, to ensure consistency within the aircraft’s interior.

In addition to upholstery work, they may also be tasked with maintaining and repairing other aspects of an aircraft’s interior, such as cabin panels and overhead compartments.

They must adhere to safety regulations and quality standards at all times, given the high-stakes nature of aviation safety.

This role requires a keen eye for detail, proficiency in hand-eye coordination, and an understanding of various types of upholstery materials and techniques.

 

Aircraft Upholsterer Qualifications and Skills

An Aircraft Upholsterer should have skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Technical skills to repair and replace aircraft upholstery using hand tools and power tools.
• A keen eye for detail to ensure that all fittings and fixtures are secure and that the aesthetic standards are met.
• Physical strength and endurance to handle heavy materials and tools, and to stand or kneel for extended periods of time.
• Understanding of safety regulations and protocols to ensure that all work is done in accordance with safety standards.
• Problem-solving skills to identify and fix issues with the upholstery, padding, and covers of aircraft seats and interiors.
• Interpersonal skills to effectively communicate with other team members and to understand and meet client needs.
• Time management skills to complete tasks and projects within the given timelines.
• Knowledge of different types of materials such as leather, vinyl, fabric, and other materials used in aircraft upholstery.

 

Aircraft Upholsterer Experience Requirements

Aspiring Aircraft Upholsterers often begin by attending a technical or vocational school where they acquire foundational knowledge in upholstery techniques and materials, as well as safety procedures.

This educational experience often includes hands-on practice, providing students with the practical skills they need to begin working in the field.

Entry-level Aircraft Upholsterers are usually required to have 1 to 2 years of experience, which can be obtained through internships or apprenticeships in upholstery workshops.

This initial experience allows these individuals to become familiar with the tools and equipment used in the trade, and to gain a basic understanding of aircraft interior design and restoration.

Candidates with around 3 to 5 years of experience in upholstery, particularly in aviation, are considered proficient in their roles.

By this time, they have usually developed advanced skills in fabric selection, foam cutting, stitching, and fitting, as well as knowledge of FAA regulations.

Those with over 5 years of experience in aircraft upholstery are often considered experts in the field.

They may have experience in specialized areas such as custom aircraft interior design, antique aircraft restoration, or luxury upholstery work.

These individuals are typically prepared for higher-level roles, such as team leaders or project managers, within an upholstery team.

Moreover, they may also possess skills in training and supervising less experienced upholsterers.

 

Aircraft Upholsterer Education and Training Requirements

Becoming an Aircraft Upholsterer typically requires a high school diploma or its equivalent as a minimum educational requirement.

Additional training in upholstery is highly beneficial and can be acquired through vocational schools or community colleges where they offer courses in sewing, furniture design, and upholstery techniques.

Most Aircraft Upholsterers learn their skills on the job as apprentices under the guidance of more experienced professionals.

This on-the-job training can last from several months to a year.

Advanced roles may require candidates to have experience with specific types of aircraft or upholstery materials, which can be gained through years of work experience.

Although not mandatory, certification from organizations such as the Professional Aircraft Upholstery Association can provide validation of a candidate’s skills and dedication to the profession.

Continuous learning and staying up-to-date with the latest materials, trends, and techniques in the field are crucial for the success of an Aircraft Upholsterer.

 

Aircraft Upholsterer Salary Expectations

An Aircraft Upholsterer can expect to earn an average salary of $40,000 (USD) per year.

This amount, however, can vary depending on factors such as experience level, the location of work, and the company that employs them.

 

Aircraft Upholsterer Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Aircraft Upholsterer need?

An Aircraft Upholsterer should be skilled in different upholstery techniques, including sewing, cutting, and fitting.

They should have excellent attention to detail to ensure the quality of their work meets high aviation standards.

They should also have strong manual dexterity, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work in confined spaces due to the nature of aircraft interiors.

 

Do Aircraft Upholsterers need a degree?

While a degree is not mandatory for this role, a vocational training certificate in upholstery can be advantageous.

Some employers may also prefer candidates with an associate’s degree in a related field like industrial design or interior design.

In addition to formal education, on-the-job training is usually provided to newly hired aircraft upholsterers.

 

What should you look for in an Aircraft Upholsterer’s resume?

When reviewing an Aircraft Upholsterer’s resume, you should look for previous experience in upholstery, preferably within the aviation industry.

Check for any certifications in upholstery or related fields.

Evidence of manual dexterity, precision, and knowledge of safety procedures in the aviation industry is also beneficial.

 

What qualities make a good Aircraft Upholsterer?

A good Aircraft Upholsterer is detail-oriented, as precision is key in this role.

They should be able to work effectively within a team, as they often have to collaborate with other professionals.

They need to have excellent time management skills to adhere to tight schedules, be adaptable and able to handle the physical demands of the job.

Good problem-solving skills are also crucial in this role, particularly when faced with challenges such as fitting upholstery in tight or awkward spaces.

 

Is it hard to find qualified Aircraft Upholsterers?

Finding qualified Aircraft Upholsterers can be challenging as it requires a unique combination of skills, including upholstery experience, understanding of aviation safety protocols, and the ability to work in confined spaces.

As such, employers often provide on-the-job training to help upholsterers adapt to the specific demands of working on aircraft.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve uncovered the intricate details of being an aircraft upholsterer.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about sewing fabric.

It’s about creating a comfortable, aesthetically pleasing environment for air travel, one stitch at a time.

With our definitive aircraft upholsterer job description template and real-world examples, you’re primed to take flight.

But why rest on your laurels?

Soar to new heights with our job description generator. It’s your next destination for precision-crafted job listings or tailoring your resume to excellence.

Remember:

Every stitch contributes to the overall comfort and experience.

Let’s craft that future. Together.

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