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

Studies drawings, work orders and sample parts to determine specifications; determines tool and machine requirements and sequence of operations; sets up woodworking machines and wood stock for correct cutting, planning, turning, shaping and sanding; operates machines to cut, plane, turn, shape and sand work pieces; removes old finishes by stripping with steel wool and glasspaper, and by applying solvents and paint strippers, and removing softened finishes by scraping; applies varnish, shellac, lacquer, stains and paint to surfaces and polishes and waxes finished surfaces.

• Works indoors in joinery and woodworking workshops.
• Workshops are likely to be adequately heated and equipped with dust vapour and fume extraction equipment.
• A variety of personal protective equipment including ear muffs and eye and breathing protection may be as appropriate.

• Physical demand level is up to a very heavy level.
• Standing and walking is frequently required about the factory to move equipment, supplies and carry out various tasks often on concrete floors. Sitting is not required.
• Stretching up and across is frequently required when polishing and lacquer spraying.
• Squatting, crouching and/or kneeling and twisting of the body or neck are occasionally required especially when accessing awkward spaces on furniture.
• Handling of wooden furniture items, lacquers, solvents and paints is constantly required.
• Lifting and carrying of finished items of furniture about the workshop is frequently required.
• Bending is frequently required.
• Repetitive movements are frequently required especially in the use of hands and arms for sanding and applying finishes.
• Driving is not required.
• There is the requirement for the use of a range of hand power and machine tools including sanding machines, hand sanding materials as well as spray guns.
• Mental skills necessary include practical, problem-solving and planning.

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.