Join Our Team: Senior Motor Trimmer
Craft Interiors That Celebrate the Past and Inspire the Future
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Finch Restorations is Australia’s longest-running vehicle restoration business with six decades of experience restoring classic, vintage, and prestige vehicles. As we expand operations at our new flagship site near the Adelaide CBD, we are seeking a Senior Motor Trimmer to lead interior restoration projects, from design and dismantling to refit and final delivery.
Our New Flagship Site
Stage One of our new site near the Adelaide CBD is now operational, with paint shop operations relocating in 2024. The Trim Shop will be one of the earlier other departments to be based at Hindmarsh.
The Role: Senior Motor Trimmer
As a Senior Motor Trimmer, you will restore and reimagine vehicle interiors using leather, vinyl, cloth, and specialist materials. This includes the design, patterning, cutting, and installation of hoods, linings, seats, carpets, and trim panels. You will also manage the Trim Shop's safety, tools, workflow, and materials.
Key Responsibilities
- Assess vehicle interior restoration needs with workshop teams.
- Remove and catalogue existing trim and fittings, with photos and measurements.
- Create interior design schemes with clients and internal teams.
- Cut, sew, and fabricate upholstery using industrial sewing machines and trimming tools.
- Restore and install hoods, carpets, panels, linings, and body hardware (locks, handles, etc.).
- Construct support frames in timber, metal, or fibreglass if required.
- Oversee Trim Shop operations and maintain tools, machinery, and safety practices.
- Manage timely procurement of trim materials, fasteners, and consumables.
- Support workflow planning, quality standards, and coordination with other departments.
Who We’re Looking For
- A passionate and experienced Motor Trimmer with an eye for detail and design.
- At least 5 years’ experience preferred, with a strong project portfolio.
- Certificate III in Automotive and Marine Trimming Technology or equivalent.
- Experience restoring classic vehicles (cars, trucks, motorcycles) is highly desirable.
- Capable of leading and managing the Trim Shop operations day to day.
- Strong communication skills and a collaborative mindset.
Bonus Skills
- Trim Shop management experience.
- Experience with additional craft skills such as timber trim restoration or veneering.
- Certificate IV qualifications (well regarded but not essential).
Why Choose Finch Restorations?
- Legacy: Australia’s oldest vehicle restoration firm, established in 1965.
- Projects: Work on rare, historic, and prestige vehicles from 1890 to 1990.
- Culture: Multi-skilled, crafts-based environment with knowledge sharing.
- Flexibility: Options for 9-day fortnights and better work-life balance.
- Growth: Opportunities for development, leadership, and creativity.
Remuneration
Wages for this role range from $30 to $45 per hour, commensurate with skills and experience.
Apply Now
If you're ready to help preserve history through precision craftsmanship, we’d love to hear from you.
Apply via SEEK or email your resume directly to
Position Description
Position Title:
Senior Motor Trimmer
Location:
Adelaide (primary) and Mount Barker (initial onboarding)
Reports to:
Workshop Supervisor
Employment Type:
Full-time
POSITION PURPOSE
To restore, fabricate, and install vehicle upholstery and trim to a high standard, contributing to the overall restoration of classic and vintage vehicles. The Senior Motor Trimmer is responsible for the design, patterning, cutting, sewing, and installation of interior components, ensuring alignment with project requirements, client expectations, and workshop procedures.
MAIN DUTIES / RESPONSIBILITIES
Trim Restoration & Upholstery Duties:
- Assess interior restoration needs in conjunction with workshop teams.
- Remove, measure, photograph, and catalogue trim, fittings, and interiors.
- Create design schemes with clients and designers.
- Cut and sew materials including leather, vinyl, and fabric using commercial machines.
- Restore and fit linings, carpets, seats, hoods, and trim panels.
- Construct frames in timber, metal, or fibreglass where required.
- Install hardware such as locks and handles.
Trim Shop Operations Duties:
- Maintain shop safety, cleanliness, and tool condition.
- Procure materials and manage consumables inventory.
- Coordinate with project planning teams on workflow and delivery timelines.
HEALTH & SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
- Wear PPE including closed footwear, eye, ear, and respiratory protection.
- Report hazards and unsafe conditions promptly.
- Maintain a tidy and hazard-free working environment.
EXPERIENCE, SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE & ATTRIBUTES
Professional Experience & Skills:
- Strong portfolio in automotive trimming projects.
- Proficient in upholstery tools and heavy-duty sewing machines.
- Familiarity with classic, vintage, and modern vehicle interiors.
- Experience managing a Trim Shop (desirable).
Personal Attributes:
- Eye for detail and passion for craftsmanship.
- Organised, proactive, and professional.
- Collaborative, reliable, and customer-focused.
PERFORMANCE GOALS
- Complete allocated tasks on time and to high quality standards.
- Maintain a safe and professional workshop environment.
- Represent Finch Restorations positively in all interactions.
QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS
- Certificate III in Automotive and Marine Trimming Technology or proven equivalent experience.
- Certificate IV or other related trades qualification (desirable).
- Valid driver’s licence.
