Prototype Trim Technician Seat Laboratory

The Prototype Trim Technician - Seat Laboratory is responsible for accurately cutting sewing and assembling seat trim covers and for participating in the complete seat build process.

Key Responsibilities

• Trim Cover Cutting & Preparation

• Read and interpret patterns work instructions and digital cutting layouts for seat trim covers.

• Cut fabric leather vinyl and other materials to specification using manual and automated cutting tools.

• Inspect materials for defects and verify correct grain orientation and color matching before cutting.

• Label and organize cut parts to support efficient flow to sewing and seat build stations.

• Sewing & Trim Cover Assembly

• Operate industrial sewing machines (e.g. single-needle double-needle overlock walking foot) to sew seat trim components.

• Assemble seams top-stitching and decorative features according to quality safety and durability standards.

• Apply foam scrim and reinforcements as required by the build specification.

• Perform in-process quality checks on stitch quality seam allowances and dimensional accuracy.

• Seat Build & Assembly

• Install finished trim covers onto seat cushions backs headrests and armrests.

• Assemble seat components including frames foam pads plastics and hardware per work instructions.

• Use hand tools and power tools to complete mechanical assembly tasks safely and correctly.

• Verify fit finish and functional operation (adjusters recliners headrests etc.) of completed seats.

• Quality Safety & Documentation

• Follow standard operating procedures quality standards and inspection criteria for trim covers and seat assemblies.

• Document production results defects and rework in the appropriate systems or forms.

• Escalate quality issues equipment concerns and process deviations promptly.

• Maintain a clean organized and safe work area following 5S and EHS requirements.

• Continuous Improvement & Collaboration

• Provide feedback on patterns methods and tooling to improve build quality and efficiency.

• Support trials prototypes and engineering changes for new seat designs and materials.

• Collaborate with engineering quality and production teams to resolve build issues and implement best practices.

Minimum Qualifications

• 5 years of experience in seat trim sewing upholstery automotive interiors furniture upholstery or closely related manufacturing/production work.

• Proven ability to cut and sew complex trim patterns to tight tolerances.

• Experience assembling complete seats or similar upholstered assemblies from component level to finished product.

Skills & Competencies

Technical Skills

• Proficiency operating industrial sewing machines and related equipment (cutters skivers binders sergers etc.).

• Ability to read and interpret patterns drawings work instructions and digital layouts.

• Comfortable using basic manufacturing software and equipment interfaces such as:

  • Pattern or nesting software for cut planning (Optitex or equivalent).

  • HMI screens or terminals to retrieve work orders and record production data.

  • Basic office or manufacturing systems for training quality and reporting.

Quality & Craftsmanship

• Strong attention to detail in stitch quality seam alignment and appearance.

• Ability to perform self-inspection and correct defects at the source.

Problem Solving & Collaboration

• Ability to identify fit finish and functional build issues and work with cross-functional teams (engineering quality production) to resolve them quickly.

• Effective communication skills in a production team environment.

• Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand bend and reach for extended periods.

• Ability to lift and move seat components and materials as required by the job (within safe limits).