Upholsterer

The Upholsterer performs maintenance and repair work on all upholstery and related items aboard the vessel as assigned by the Accommodations Maintenance Manager. This is a skilled trades role requiring proficiency in furniture repair, fabric application, carpet and wallpaper work, and related finishes. The incumbent must deliver high-quality workmanship, adhere to ISM/ISO and SQM standards, USPH guidelines, and all environmental and safety policies, and be flexible to work across various shipboard areas and shifts, including on-call/emergency situations when required.

Key Responsibilities

Perform maintenance and repair on upholstery, carpets, wallpapers, window treatments, and related components; install new materials as requested.
Inspect, measure, cut, sew, reupholster, and replace fabric, foam, padding, and hardware; restore or upgrade finishes to meet quality standards.
Maintain and operate sewing equipment, fastening tools, and other upholstery-related tools; manage materials and supplies efficiently.
Ensure work is completed in compliance with ISM/ISO and SQM standards, USPH guidelines, and environmental and safety policies.
Address guest or crew complaints promptly and professionally; coordinate with supervisors to resolve issues.
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment; report safety or maintenance concerns to supervision.
Collaborate with Housekeeping, Engineering, and Purchasing as needed; assist with inventory and procurement of upholstery materials.
Support on-call and alternate shift schedules; participate in ship wide drills and safety trainings as required.
Document work performed, update maintenance logs, and communicate progress to supervisors.

Qualifications & Training

Minimum 2 years of previous experience onboard vessels as an upholsterer or in an apprenticeship/entry-level upholstery role
High school diploma or equivalent preferred
Completed STCW95 and social responsibility training

Certifications/Training:

Upholstery-related training or certifications (sewing, fabric selection, patterning) desirable
Safety and environmental training relevant to shipboard operations

Language Requirements

Ability to speak English clearly, distinctly, and cordially with guests and crew.
Ability to read and write English to understand and interpret written procedures; effectively present information and respond to questions from guests, supervisors, and co-workers.
Additional languages are advantageous but not required.

Physical & Environmental Requirements

Physical: Regularly stand, walk, and use hands to touch, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; talk or hear; and taste or smell. Frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Fine motor skills for sewing and upholstery tasks.
Vision: Daily activities require close, distance, color, peripheral, and depth perception, with the ability to adjust focus.
Environmental: Must be able to work in shipboard environments with exposure to heat, cold, humidity, noise, and confined spaces; wear appropriate PPE; participate in emergency procedures and drills; flexible to work alternate shifts and respond to off-hours requests as needed. Full use of arms, legs, vision, hearing, and communication abilities is required to perform duties effectively.

Additional Notes:

Candidates must be committed to safety and environmental standards.
Work involves physical activity and exposure to challenging environments.