Furniture Refinisher and Woodworking Coordinator

Furniture Refinisher & Woodworking Coordinator

Job Description

Background:

Founded in 2008, Madison House Autism Foundation’s mission is to promote, model and advocate for the full inclusion of adults with autism and their families in the life of our communities, and to expand choice and opportunity in housing, employment, and social participation. 

Located in Montgomery County’s Agricultural Reserve, Madison Fields is a 265-acre working farm and community campus that offers job readiness and skills training for adults with autism and other intellectual and developmental disabilities (A/I/DD). It also serves the greater community by providing agricultural education, diverse indoor and outdoor spaces for personal or corporate events, and individual and group volunteer opportunities to support our mission.

Position Summary:

The Furniture Refinisher & Woodworking Coordinator leads a hands-on vocational training track focused on woodworking and furniture repair and restoration for adults with A/I/DD participating in Madison Fields’ employment and skills development program. Reporting to the Job Training Program Manager, this position oversees workshop operations, trains participants in tool use and production techniques, and develops structured, accessible learning experiences. The role emphasizes safety, skill progression, quality workmanship, and participant independence, while supporting a neuro-inclusive environment.

Duties:

Workshop & Equipment Management

• Oversee daily operations of the woodworking and furniture refinishing and repurposing space. 
• Ensure safe setup, use, and maintenance of tools and equipment (e.g., sanders, saws, drills, clamps, finishing tools). 
• Develop and enforce workshop safety protocols, including tool use, personal protective equipment (PPE), and workspace organization. 
• Maintain a clean, organized, and hazard-free environment. 
• Conduct routine equipment checks and coordinate repairs or servicing as needed.
• Manage inventory of tools, materials, and supplies (e.g., wood, hardware, finishes, safety gear).
• Track usage and maintain appropriate stock levels.
• Source and procure materials, including donated or reclaimed furniture where appropriate; coordinate with purchasers for receipt of furniture and products. 
• Ensure proper storage and labeling of materials, including safe handling of finishes and chemicals.
• Develop proficiency in programming and using a CNC router.
• Oversee cutting and drying of hardwood from logs delivered to Madison Fields by local tree services.
• If needed, take woodworking courses to increase skills (tuition will be covered).

Vocational Training & Instruction

• Identify and develop simple, marketable products (e.g., small wood crafts, refurbished furniture) that align with participant skill levels.
• Train and coach autistic adults in: 
  • Safe and appropriate use of woodworking tools and equipment. 
  • Basic woodworking techniques and simple craft production. 
  • Furniture repair and refinishing (e.g., sanding, staining, painting, sealing, minor repairs). 
  • Measuring, cutting, assembling, and finishing wood products. 
• Break down tasks into clear, structured, and repeatable steps tailored to different learning styles. 
• Provide hands-on instruction, modeling, and guided practice. 
• Reinforce workplace readiness skills, including: 
  • following instructions and safety procedures. 
  • task completion and quality control. 
  • teamwork and communication. 
  • time management and self-regulation. 
• Gradually build participant independence and confidence.
• Assist in documenting participant skill development and program outcomes.
• Contribute to program improvement, product development, and workshop expansion ideas.

Required Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent; relevant technical training or certification in woodworking, carpentry, furniture restoration, or a related field.
• Minimum 2-4 years of hands-on experience in woodworking, carpentry, furniture refinishing, or a related trade.
• Demonstrated experience safely using and maintaining woodworking tools and equipment.
• Experience teaching, coaching, or mentoring others in hands-on skills (formal or informal).
• Strong knowledge of workshop safety practices and ability to enforce them consistently.
• Ability to break down complex tasks into clear, structured steps.
• Ability to work in a physically active environment (standing, lifting, bending, using tools).
• Strong organizational skills, including inventory and workspace management.
• Patience, reliability, and strong interpersonal skills. 
• CPR/First Aid certification (or to be completed within 90 days).

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
• Background in vocational training, workforce development, special education, occupational therapy, or rehabilitation services.
• Experience in a maker space, vocational program, or social enterprise setting.
• Knowledge of neurodiversity-affirming and person-centered approaches.
• Experience developing small-scale product lines or managing production workflows.
• Familiarity with upcycling, sustainability practices, or reclaimed materials.
• Veterans and transitioning service members are strongly encouraged to apply.
• Second language proficiency (e.g., Spanish, Chinese, Korean, etc.)

Location: Dickerson, MD

Employment Type: Full-time (40 hours per week)

Salary Range: $45,000-$50,000

Actual base salary may vary based on, but not be limited to, relevant experience and base salary of internal peers.

Benefits: Health insurance, retirement savings plan, paid holidays, vacation days, and wellness days. 

Application Deadline: August 28, 2026

Send resume and cover letter to: jobs@madisonhouseautism.org