Wood Surface Prep for High-End Finishes

RH; Torrance (CA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

RH is seeking a skilled Wood Paint and Stain Prepping Specialist for our Dennis & Leen/Formations Workshop in Torrance, CA. You will prepare raw and assembled wood furniture for finishing, ensuring surfaces are refined, clean, and ready for paint and stain.

The ideal candidate has 3+ years in furniture preparation or related craft, with strong sanding and surface correction skills and familiarity with antique or high-end finishes. Safety, precision, and teamwork are essential in this role.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in furniture preparation, woodworking, or related craft.
• Proficiency in sanding, surface correction, and wood preparation techniques across multiple species.
• Experience identifying and repairing surface flaws using fillers, putty, and smoothing methods.
• Skilled in the use of hand tools, orbital sanders, and dust-control systems.
• Understanding of how surface preparation affects paint and stain adhesion, tone, and finish quality.

Responsibilities

• Inspect furniture for surface defects, damage, or inconsistencies prior to finishing.
• Sand wood components using hand tools, orbital sanders, and sanding blocks to achieve a smooth, uniform texture.
• Fill cracks, holes, and imperfections with wood fillers, ensuring seamless blending and consistency.
• Clean and condition surfaces to remove dust, oils, and contaminants that may affect finish adhesion.
• Apply sealers or conditioners as needed to prepare wood for water-based paints and stains.
• Mask or protect areas not to be finished, ensuring clean transitions and defined lines.
• Collaborate with finishers to meet specific finishing requirements and ensure surface readiness.
• Maintain an organized, clean, and safe workspace in alignment with workshop safety protocols.

Skills

Furniture preparation

Woodworking

Sanding

Finish prep

Hand tools

Safety practices

Tools

Orbital sander

Dust-control systems

Hand tools

Job description

RH is seeking a skilled Wood Paint and Stain Prepping Specialist for our Dennis & Leen/Formations Workshop in Torrance, CA. You will prepare raw and assembled wood furniture for finishing, ensuring surfaces are refined, clean, and ready for paint and stain.

The ideal candidate has 3+ years in furniture preparation or related craft, with strong sanding and surface correction skills and familiarity with antique or high-end finishes. Safety, precision, and teamwork are essential in this role.