Automotive Upholstery Technician Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In today’s automotive industry, the role of an Automotive Upholstery Technician is more critical than ever before.

The landscape of vehicle interiors constantly evolves, and with each change, the demand for skilled hands who can fabricate, enhance, and preserve our automotive upholstery grows stronger.

But let’s take a closer look: What’s truly expected from an Automotive Upholstery Technician?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager shaping the perfect candidate profile,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of automotive upholstery,

You’ve found the right place.

Today, we present a comprehensive Automotive Upholstery Technician job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s delve right into it.

Automotive Upholstery Technician Duties and Responsibilities

Automotive Upholstery Technicians are skilled in customizing and restoring vehicle interiors.

They work with a variety of materials and tools to ensure the vehicle’s interior matches the customer’s specifications and the vehicle’s overall aesthetic.

Automotive Upholstery Technicians perform the following duties and responsibilities:

• Consult with clients to understand their needs and preferences for their vehicle’s interior
• Examine vehicle interiors to determine the condition of upholstery and to identify necessary repairs
• Remove, repair, and replace damaged or worn out vehicle upholstery
• Use specialized equipment and tools to sew and install custom upholstery in vehicles
• Apply various treatments to upholstery materials to ensure their longevity and durability
• Perform routine maintenance on upholstery tools and equipment
• Collaborate with other automotive professionals to ensure the overall look and feel of the vehicle is cohesive
• Stay updated on latest trends and developments in automotive upholstery
• Maintain a clean and safe work environment according to industry standards
• Order materials and supplies as needed

 

Automotive Upholstery Technician Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a skilled Automotive Upholstery Technician to join our team.

In this role, you will be responsible for repairing and replacing upholstery in vehicles.

As an Automotive Upholstery Technician, you will be expected to have a keen eye for detail, experience with upholstery repair tools, and an understanding of various types of upholstery materials.

The goal is to maintain our reputation for quality by delivering top-notch service and ensuring that our customers’ cars are in excellent condition.

 

Responsibilities

• Inspect vehicles for damage and evaluate the extent of wear and tear
• Remove and replace damaged upholstery, including seats, carpeting, and trim
• Use hand tools and power tools to disassemble and reassemble vehicle interiors
• Select, order, and purchase materials as needed
• Use sewing machines or other techniques to stitch together upholstery materials
• Consult with customers to determine their preferences for color, material, and type of upholstery
• Follow health and safety regulations to ensure a safe work environment

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as an Automotive Upholstery Technician or similar role
• Knowledge of upholstery repair tools and techniques
• Ability to work with various types of upholstery materials
• Excellent attention to detail
• Good communication and customer service skills
• High school diploma or equivalent; vocational training in automotive upholstery is a plus

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Automotive Upholstery Technician
• Work Environment: This role involves working in a garage environment and may require some physical exertion.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Workshop Manager or Supervisor.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: Depending on experience and location
• 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 Automotive Upholstery Technician Do?

Automotive Upholstery Technicians typically work for automotive manufacturing companies, car repair shops, or as self-employed individuals specializing in automotive upholstery.

Their primary role is to repair, replace, and customize the upholstery in vehicles.

This includes seats, carpeting, roof linings, and door trims.

They often work with a variety of materials such as leather, fabric, vinyl, or synthetic materials.

These technicians are skilled in creating patterns, cutting materials to fit, and securing the upholstery in place.

They use a variety of tools such as scissors, knives, staplers, and sewing machines to complete their tasks.

Automotive Upholstery Technicians often work closely with customers to understand their needs and preferences.

They may provide consultation on material choices, colors, and designs.

They also perform regular maintenance on upholstery, fixing minor issues such as tears, burns, or stains.

They may also be responsible for installing additional interior features such as heated seats or custom trim.

In all cases, the Automotive Upholstery Technician is responsible for ensuring the quality of their work and customer satisfaction.

 

Automotive Upholstery Technician Qualifications and Skills

Automotive Upholstery Technicians need to have a blend of practical skills, technical knowledge, and artistic creativity to excel in their role, including:

• Hands-on expertise in upholstery techniques, including sewing, pattern-making, and installation of a variety of materials, such as leather and vinyl.
• Technical knowledge of different types of vehicles and their interior designs to create customized upholstery solutions.
• Attention to detail and precision to ensure the highest level of craftsmanship in each project, from simple repairs to complete interior restorations.
• Problem-solving skills to diagnose and rectify various upholstery issues such as wear and tear, staining, or design flaws.
• Physical stamina and dexterity for manual work, often in confined spaces or awkward positions, and handling heavy equipment and materials.
• Good visual and spatial abilities to visualize the final product and understand how different parts come together.
• Strong customer service and communication skills to understand client requirements, provide advice on material selection, and keep clients informed about the progress of the work.
• Basic knowledge of safety procedures to prevent accidents and damage to the vehicle during the upholstery process.

 

Automotive Upholstery Technician Experience Requirements

An Automotive Upholstery Technician may start their career through a vocational program or apprenticeship, gaining hands-on experience in automotive upholstery, refurbishing, and repair.

This initial training typically takes one to two years, offering practical skills necessary for entry-level technician roles.

Entry-level automotive upholstery technicians usually have 1 to 2 years of experience, often gained through part-time roles, internships, or apprenticeships in the automotive industry.

Here, they may work under the supervision of experienced technicians to learn the intricacies of the job, such as seat cover replacement, door panel refurbishing, and carpet installation.

Technicians with more than 3 years of experience are often skilled in a wider range of tasks, such as custom upholstery design, fabric selection, and dealing with a variety of vehicle types.

They may also have experience with more advanced repair tasks like restoring classic or luxury car interiors.

Those with over 5 years of experience are likely to have developed comprehensive technical skills and have a strong understanding of automotive interior systems.

They may be ready for higher-level roles, such as a team leader or supervisor, overseeing a team of technicians and managing projects.

Some technicians with this level of experience may also choose to start their own automotive upholstery business.

 

Automotive Upholstery Technician Education and Training Requirements

Automotive Upholstery Technicians typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, along with specialized training in automotive upholstery.

Many community colleges and vocational schools offer relevant programs that provide both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience.

The training typically covers various aspects such as fabric selection, sewing techniques, installation, and repair of upholstery in automotive vehicles.

Certification from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) could be beneficial.

While not always necessary, it can provide a competitive edge when applying for jobs.

Some technicians may also opt to complete an apprenticeship, which provides practical on-the-job training under the guidance of an experienced professional.

In this rapidly evolving field, continuing education is important.

Technicians often need to stay updated with the latest tools, materials, and techniques used in automotive upholstery.

Knowledge of safety standards and regulations associated with the profession is also crucial.

Automotive Upholstery Technicians should be familiar with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines to ensure a safe working environment.

 

Automotive Upholstery Technician Salary Expectations

An Automotive Upholstery Technician can expect to earn an average salary of $36,000 (USD) per year.

However, the actual compensation can significantly vary based on the individual’s experience, skill level, the size and location of the employing company, and the complexity of tasks involved in a specific position.

 

Automotive Upholstery Technician Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Automotive Upholstery Technician need?

Automotive Upholstery Technicians should possess excellent manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination to carry out precise work.

They should have a keen eye for detail to identify imperfections and assess the condition of vehicle interiors.

Additionally, these technicians need to have good communication and customer service skills to understand client needs and requests.

Knowledge of different fabric and material types is also crucial in this role.

 

What kind of training does an Automotive Upholstery Technician require?

Most Automotive Upholstery Technicians learn their skills on the job or through vocational training programs.

These programs typically cover topics like fabric selection, stitching techniques, pattern making, and the use of industrial sewing machines.

Although not mandatory, certification from recognized upholstery associations can enhance job prospects.

 

What should you look for in an Automotive Upholstery Technician resume?

An Automotive Upholstery Technician resume should showcase their experience in upholstery repair, replacement, and customization.

The resume should highlight their proficiency in using upholstery tools and their knowledge of different materials.

Candidates with experience in related fields, such as automotive repair or interior design, may also bring valuable skills to the role.

 

What qualities make a good Automotive Upholstery Technician?

A good Automotive Upholstery Technician has a passion for vehicles and a keen sense of aesthetics.

They are able to work independently, manage their time effectively, and pay close attention to detail.

This role requires a significant amount of manual labor, so physical stamina is important.

Good technicians also keep up to date with the latest trends in automotive upholstery and are committed to delivering high-quality work that meets customer expectations.

 

How is the demand for Automotive Upholstery Technicians in the job market?

The demand for Automotive Upholstery Technicians can be influenced by several factors including the health of the automotive industry, the economy, and consumer spending habits.

However, as long as there are vehicles on the road, there will be a need for skilled technicians to maintain and repair their upholstery.

The demand is particularly high in regions with a strong culture of vehicle customization and restoration.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve taken an in-depth look at what it means to be an automotive upholstery technician.

And guess what?

It’s not just about replacing seat covers.

It’s about crafting the aesthetic appeal of a vehicle, one stitch at a time.

With our go-to automotive upholstery technician job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to accelerate your career.

But why stop there?

Dive deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating accurate, engaging job listings or sharpening your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every stitch contributes to the overall elegance of the vehicle.

Let’s create that elegance. Together.

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