Installs repairs and replaces the interior trim of vehicles, such as seats, linings, floor coverings and door trims.

Prepares new vehicle trim work according to drawings and sketches, and removes old coverings and fittings from vehicles and takes new measurements; selects and cuts pieces of fabric, vinyl and leather and sews pieces together using heavy-duty sewing machines; installs internal trim in vehicles such as lining, floor coverings and armrests; attaches door trims, rubber seals, locks and handles.

• Works indoors in workshops.
• The work area will usually be adequately heated and ventilated.
• Likely to work in cramped and awkward spaces.
• Old carpet and linings being replaced may be dusty.

• Physical demand is medium.
• Standing, sitting or lying at varying angles within the bodies of the vehicles is frequently required. Walking about the worksite to use various work tables, equipment and materials is frequently required. Sitting is frequently required at sewing machines and over-lockers.
• Stretching across and up, squatting, crouching or kneeling, and twisting of the body or neck is occasionally required to attach materials in place.
• Contact with dust, especially when replacing existing upholstery is frequently required. Vehicle trimmers also use strong adhesives.
• Lifting and carrying and pulling and pushing is frequently required.
• Repetitive movements of the hands and arms are frequently required for stapling, gluing and hand sewing.
• Driving is not a significant component of the role.
• Use a range of hand and electric tools including measuring equipment, fabric/carpet cutting equipment, sewing machines, adhesives, staple guns, hammers and a variety of other hand tools.
• Bending is frequently required in order to carry out the required tasks.
• Mental skills necessary include sewing and other practical skills as well as problem-solving, organisational skills and an eye for detail.

A New Zealand Register Level 4 qualification or at least three years of relevant experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 3). In some instances relevant experience and/or on-the-job training may be required in addition to the formal qualification. For entry-level positions on-the-job training may be sufficient.

There are opportunities for flexibility of movement but they are limited.