Purpose

The Upholstery Technician III is responsible for fabricating, sewing, and installing high-end aircraft interior soft goods, including seating, panels, carpets, and decorative elements. This role ensures all upholstery work meets the highest standards of craftsmanship, quality, and precision required for VIP and VVIP aircraft interiors. The technician works from engineering drawings, design specifications, and patterns to create and install custom interior components that meet customer expectations and regulatory requirements.

Essential Job Functions

• Fabricate and install aircraft interior soft goods including seat covers, cushions, sidewall panels, headliners, and carpet systems.
• Read and interpret engineering drawings, upholstery patterns, and design specifications.
• Develop, modify, and execute sewing patterns for complex interior components.
• Perform precision sewing using industrial sewing machines for leather, fabric, and specialty materials.
• Cut, fit, and assemble materials to meet tight tolerances and high-quality standards.
• Install upholstery components within aircraft cabins, ensuring proper fit, finish, and alignment.
• Perform carpet layout, cutting, binding, and installation for aircraft interiors.
• Install and refurbish interior panels, trims, and soft furnishings.
• Inspect completed work for quality, defects, and compliance with specifications.
• Maintain proper tool control, FOD prevention, and safety standards during all work activities.
• Collaborate with design, engineering, and production teams to resolve fit, finish, or installation issues.
• Perform repairs, rework, and modifications to existing upholstery components as required.
• Maintain clean and organized work areas in accordance with company standards.
• Follow FAA regulations, company procedures, and quality requirements for all work performed.

Minimum Qualifications or Experience

• High school diploma or GED required.
• 3–5 years of experience in upholstery, sewing, or interior fabrication.
• Experience working with industrial sewing machines and upholstery tools.
• Ability to read and interpret drawings, patterns, and specifications.

Preferred Qualifications or Experience

• Experience in aviation, aerospace, automotive, marine, or high-end furniture upholstery.
• Experience working on VIP or VVIP aircraft interiors.
• Familiarity with aircraft interior materials such as leather, composites, and specialty fabrics.
• Knowledge of FAA regulations related to aircraft interiors.
• Experience with carpet fabrication and installation.

Supervisory Responsibilities

This position does not have direct supervisory responsibilities.

Knowledge, Skills, and Other Attributes

• Strong sewing and upholstery craftsmanship skills.
• High attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Ability to work with precision and maintain tight tolerances.
• Strong understanding of materials, patterns, and fabrication techniques.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong problem-solving skills related to fit and finish challenges.
• Good communication skills and ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced production environment.

Travel

Travel is not typically required for this position but may occasionally be required to support off-site work or aircraft delivery.

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not intended to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required for this position. Duties and responsibilities may change at any time with or without notice to support business needs.

Working Conditions

• Work is performed in aircraft hangars, upholstery shops, and production environments.
• Requires standing, bending, lifting, and working in confined aircraft cabin spaces.
• Exposure to tools, adhesives, fabrics, and industrial sewing equipment.
• Ability to lift materials and equipment up to 50 pounds.
• Must follow OSHA safety standards and company policies, including use of required PPE.
• May require extended hours or overtime to meet production schedules.