French Polishers

PURPOSE

The French polisher will apply their expertise in restoring and finishing high-quality wood surfaces, ensuring that all projects meet the exacting standards of our clients.This role demands a meticulous eye for detail and a deep understanding of traditional polishing techniques.

LOCATION

Sydney Australia

Applies finishes, such as stain, lacquer,paint oil and varnish to furniture and polishes and waxes finished furniture surfaces.

QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

Work Experience: Over 1 year of proven experience.

• Tertiary Qualifications/Industry Relevant: such as Woodwork, Carpentry or Furniture Finisher
• Strong Knowledge of traditional and modern French polishing techniques.
• High proficiency in English, both spoken and written. Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent hand-eye coordination and attention to detail.
• strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work under tight deadlines.
• Physically capable of handling the demands of the job, including standing for long
• periods and lifting heavy materials when necessary.

Furniture Finisher (French Polishing Specialist)

Full Time

$78,000 to $80,000 per year

DUTIES and RESPONSIBILITIES

Surface Preparation

• Inspect wooden furniture to assess condition, finish type, and restoration needs.
• Strip existing finishes using solvents, abrasives, or hand tools to expose raw timber.
• Sand, smooth, and shape surfaces using pumice stones, steel wool, and fine-grade sandpaper to prepare for polishing.

French Polishing Application

• Apply shellac-based French polish using traditional hand-rubbed techniques to achieve a high-gloss, mirror-like finish.
• Build up layers of polish through repeated application and buffing, ensuring uniformity and depth of sheen.
• Use specialist materials such as rubber pads, alcohol, and oil to control drying and surface clarity.

Restoration and Repair

• Fill cracks, dents, and imperfections with wood putty or wax fillers to restore surface integrity.
• Repair or replace damaged components using adhesives, clamps, nails, or screws.
• Treat warped or stained surfaces to restore original contours and colour consistency.

Customisation and Detailing

• Match finishes to client specifications or original design using custom-mixed shellac shades.
• Highlight wood grain and decorative features through selective polishing and shading techniques.
• Apply decorative elements such as gilding, stencilling, or distressing to replicate antique aesthetics.

Compliance and Safety

• Operate within workshop safety standards, using protective equipment to manage exposure to fumes and solvents.
• Maintain accurate records of restoration processes, materials used, and client specifications.
• Ensure all finishes comply with environmental and occupational health regulations.

Client Interaction and Quality Assurance

• Liaise with clients to determine desired finish, restoration scope, and delivery timelines.
• Conduct final inspections to ensure finish quality, durability, and aesthetic alignment.
• Provide aftercare advice for maintaining French-polished surfaces.

Proven Skills and Technical Proficiency

• Expertise in applying shellac-based French polish using traditional hand-rubbed techniques.
• Skilled in surface preparation, including sanding, stripping, and smoothing timber.
• Ability to match finishes and replicate antique or custom aesthetics.
• Competence in repairing and restoring wooden furniture, including filling, rejoining, and refinishing.

Tool Handling

• Proficient in using hand tools and power tools for furniture finishing tasks.
• Familiarity with materials such as pumice, steel wool, oils, and solvents used in French polishing.

Quality Control & Detailing

• Strong attention to detail in achieving uniform sheen, clarity, and grain enhancement.
• Capable of conducting final inspections and ensuring finish durability and client satisfaction.

Safety & Compliance

• Knowledge of workplace safety standards, including handling of volatile chemicals and ventilation protocols.
• Understanding of environmental and occupational health regulations relevant to finishing processes.

Communication & Client Service

• Ability to interpret client specifications and provide aftercare advice for polished surfaces.
• Clear documentation of restoration processes and materials used.

Work Experience: Over 1 year proven experience.

Tertiary Qualifications/Industry Relevant: such as Woodwork, Carpentry or Furniture Finisher

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $78,000.00 – $80,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person