Leather Goods Artisan - New York City

Polène Paris•New York, NY

10d•$50,000 - $55,000•Onsite

About The Position

Polène boutiques immerse clients in our unique universe, welcoming a high-end, international clientele. As a Leather Goods Artisan, you play a key role in bringing the Maison’s craftsmanship to life within our flagship store. This position combines hands-on artisanal expertise with a client-facing mindset. You will be responsible for leather repairs, restorations, product animations, and personalization services, while partnering closely with the sales team to ensure a seamless, elevated customer journey that reflects Polène’s standards of excellence.

Requirements

Proven experience in a luxury Maison, leather workshop, or comparable artisanal environment.
Strong command of leatherworking techniques relevant to repair, restoration, and small leather goods making, including stitching, edge work, finishing, stamping, and thermoforming.
Comfortable working in a highly client-facing role, with the ability to engage, explain, and perform craftsmanship live in store.
Exceptional attention to detail with a strong quality mindset, even under observation.
Professional working proficiency in English
Energetic, approachable, and team-oriented, with natural relational ease and strong communication skills.

Nice To Haves

Spanish is a plus.

Responsibilities

Welcome clients with courtesy and professionalism, embodying the values and standards of Maison Polène.
Deliver live leathercraft demonstrations and charm-making animations in a high-traffic flagship environment, remaining calm, focused, and precise while working under observation.
Explain the key steps of charm making in clear, client-friendly language, including shaping and thermoforming, dyeing, stamping or marking, stitching, and finishing.
Keep clients engaged throughout the making process by guiding them through available personalization options, expected timelines, and the final result.
Maintain a smooth and professional rhythm, balancing technical execution with narration and interaction without compromising quality.
Diagnose and perform leather goods repairs in line with Polène quality standards, including stitching repairs, edge dyeing, and finishing.
Restore and maintain products to extend their lifespan while preserving their original aesthetic and craftsmanship.
Maintain accurate repair documentation, follow-ups, and reporting within internal systems.
Act as a key link with internal workshops by escalating recurring issues and contributing to continuous improvement of Polène leather goods.
Handcraft leather accessories entirely by hand, from start to finish, using techniques such as thermoforming, dyeing, stamping, stitching, and finishing.
Perform in-store personalization services with consistent luxury-level finishes that meet Maison standards.
Support product animations and craftsmanship storytelling that enrich the in-store experience.
Collaborate closely with the Sales team to ensure smooth handoffs, clear timing, and aligned client communication.
Set clear and realistic expectations regarding what can be delivered in-store within the scope of animations and personalization services.
Contribute to a seamless and elevated client journey by reinforcing Polène’s service standards at every touchpoint.
Stay informed on leathercraft techniques, materials, and industry best practices.
Participate in internal training sessions, including workshops in Ubrique, Spain, to refine skills and deepen craftsmanship expertise.

Benefits

Competitive salary range wage: $50,000 - $55,000.
Monthly ICHRA medical stipend to select your preferred healthcare plan.
Employer-contributed dental and vision insurance.
401(k) plan.
Paid Time Off, including vacation and sick days.
Staff discount on leather goods and jewelry.
Commuter benefits (pre-tax, where applicable).
Opportunities for career growth within our expanding U.S. network.
Supportive, inclusive culture rooted in craftsmanship, creativity, and teamwork.
Full-time, on-site role at our SoHo flagship boutique.
Weekend, holiday, and peak-season availability is required.