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Upholstery Apprentice Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Performs upholstery work as required. * Installs and maintains all tile, marble floor materials ... A. degree in a related field or completion of a recognized apprenticeship program. Additional ...

Performs upholstery work as required. * Installs and maintains all tile, marble floor materials ... A. degree in a related field or completion of a recognized apprenticeship program. Additional ...

Upholstery Apprentice information

See Indiana salary details

$10

$18

$26

How much do upholstery apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for upholstery apprentice in Indiana is $18.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.58 and $20.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an upholstery apprentice, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Upholstery Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of textile materials, hand-tool proficiency, and a willingness to learn traditional and modern upholstery techniques, often gained through on-the-job training or vocational programs. Familiarity with sewing machines, staple guns, and fabric cutting tools is typically required, and some employers may value completion of relevant safety training or certificates. Attention to detail, patience, and strong problem-solving skills help apprentices produce high-quality work and adapt to unique furniture pieces. These abilities are crucial for ensuring durability, customer satisfaction, and growth within the upholstery trade.

What does an upholstery apprentice do?

As an upholstery apprentice, you participate in an apprenticeship and complete training to learn how to sew and repair fabric and other materials used to cover furniture. You may practice your trade on objects of various shapes, help create custom furniture, learn to interpret work orders, and draw cutting lines on sketches or blueprints. Upholstery apprentices usually work in a single shop for some time, and completing the apprenticeship often involves immediate promotion to being a regular upholsterer. This job comes in two main forms. Most upholsterers focus on furniture for home use, such as couches, but some specialize in upholstery for vehicles.

What is the difference between Upholstery Apprentice vs Upholstery Technician?

AspectUpholstery ApprenticeUpholstery Technician
CredentialsOn-the-job training, sometimes basic certificationsAdvanced skills, certifications may be preferred
Work EnvironmentLearning environment, supervised tasksIndependent work, more complex projects
Industry UsageEntry-level, training phaseExperienced, skilled professional

The main difference between an Upholstery Apprentice and an Upholstery Technician is experience level. Apprentices are in training, focusing on learning basic skills under supervision, while Technicians are experienced workers capable of handling complex upholstery projects independently.

What does an upholstery apprentice do?

An Upholstery Apprentice learns the skills needed to repair, create, and restore furniture and other items covered with fabric, leather, or other materials. They work under the guidance of experienced upholsterers, assisting with tasks such as measuring fabric, cutting patterns, attaching coverings, and using tools like staple guns and sewing machines. The apprenticeship provides hands-on training and helps apprentices develop both technical ability and an eye for detail, essential for producing high-quality work.

What are some common challenges upholstery apprentices face when learning the trade, and how can they overcome them?

Upholstery Apprentices often encounter challenges such as mastering precise hand tools, understanding various fabric types, and developing patience for detailed, repetitive work. Working on intricate furniture pieces or learning to repair antique items can be especially demanding. To overcome these hurdles, apprentices are encouraged to seek feedback from experienced upholsterers, practice consistently, and take advantage of hands-on training opportunities. Collaboration with seasoned team members and asking questions will help accelerate learning and build confidence in the role.
What are the most commonly searched types of Upholstery jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Upholstery jobs in Indiana are:
What are popular job titles related to Upholstery Apprentice jobs in Indiana? For Upholstery Apprentice jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Upholstery Apprentice jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Upholstery Apprentice jobs in Indiana are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Upholstery Apprentice jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Upholstery Apprentice job openings:
Infographic showing various Upholstery Apprentice job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $38,317 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

Body Shop Apprentice Technician

Sternberg Collision Center

Jasper, IN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

 A body shop apprentice assists experienced technicians in repairing and restoring collision-damaged vehicles. Under direct supervision, you will learn to disassemble parts, prep and sand surfaces, operate equipment, and complete formal training to advance to a fully certified technician. 

For the right candidate, after a determined trial period company provided and paid local body shop vocational certificate. Paid training, provided candidate maintains company determined requirements. 

If you are not looking to attend school to become a certified collision technician, please do not apply.

Core Responsibilities
Vehicle Disassembly: Safely remove trim, upholstery, and damaged parts to access internal vehicle frames and panels.
Surface Preparation: Assist with sanding, masking, priming, and applying body filler to prepare areas for painting.
Tool Operation: Learn to properly and safely handle body shop tools, including welders, grinders, and frame machines.
Repair Assistance: Help mentors with basic structural repairs, panel alignment, and part replacements.
Shop Maintenance: Keep the work area clean, organized, and compliant with hazardous waste disposal regulations. 
 
 
Qualifications & Requirements
Education: High school diploma or equivalent; completion of vocational or automotive tech programs is a major plus.
License: A valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.
Physical Demands: Ability to perform continuous physical activity, including lifting heavy parts (up to 50 to 70 lbs), bending, standing, and squatting.
    Career Growth
    Many body shops structure this role using certified curriculum to provide a clear path from a beginner to a journeyman. For example, large networks structure their training to include manufacturer-specific certifications and industry-recognized credentials like those offered by I-CAR Registered Apprenticeship Program.