Gold Leaf Finishing Specialist

RH Restoration Hardware • Torrance, CA

6d • $22 - $27

About The Position

RH is seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented Gold Leaf Finishing Specialist to join its Dennis & Leen/Formations Workshop in Torrance, California. This role contributes to handcrafted furniture that reflects the artistry and heritage of classical design. The specialist applies genuine gold leaf to wood furniture using traditional gilding methods, drawing on expertise in surface preparation, precise application, and decorative finishing to create historically inspired, visually distinctive work that reflects enduring beauty, craftsmanship, and quality.

Requirements

• At least 3 years of experience in gold leaf application, gilding, or decorative finishing.
• Proficiency in water gilding, oil gilding, and surface gilding using genuine gold leaf.
• Skill in applying gesso, bole, and sealers to create suitable surfaces for adhesion.
• Experience using agate burnishers, brushes, and toning agents to adjust the sheen and depth of gold finishes.
• Knowledge of distressing, aging, and patina techniques for replicating antique or historically accurate finishes.
• Strong artistic judgment, attention to detail, and commitment to craftsmanship.
• Ability to handle and move furniture components weighing up to 50 pounds regularly and occasionally up to 75 pounds with assistance.
• Ability to perform detailed visual and tactile analysis of finish quality, color consistency, and surface precision.
• Ability to stand, bend, and perform fine, repetitive hand movements for extended periods in a workshop environment.
• Ability to work around dust, noise, and finishing materials while adhering to safety and PPE standards.
• Manual dexterity, control, and concentration when using hand and finishing tools.
• Portfolio or examples of previous gilding or decorative finishing work are strongly preferred.

Nice To Haves

• Background in fine arts, restoration, or high-end furniture finishing.
• Experience in luxury or custom furniture production.
• Familiarity with complementary decorative techniques such as verre églomisé, stenciling, or hand painting.

Responsibilities

• Apply genuine gold leaf to wood furniture using traditional water gilding, oil gilding, or surface gilding techniques.
• Prepare surfaces by sanding, sealing, and layering gesso and bole to support adhesion and finish quality.
• Handle and lay gold leaf precisely to create smooth, consistent coverage or intentional antique effects.
• Burnish, tone, and distress gold leaf finishes to achieve antique-style and historically inspired aesthetics.
• Collaborate with designers and finishers so gilding complements the overall vision and design intent.
• Maintain a clean, organized workspace and follow safety and material-handling protocols.
• Inspect finished pieces for quality, consistency, and adherence to design specifications.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: No Education Listed