Job Summary
- Employer: Kenmart Investments
- Job Type: Temporary
- Location: Maseru, Lesotho
- Category: Trades
- Closing Date: 2026-10-07
Key Responsibilities
- Upholster and reupholster chairs, couches, sofas, headboards, benches and other furniture.
- Measure, cut and fit fabric, leather, vinyl, foam, padding, springs and webbing.
- Repair and replace worn or damaged upholstery and fittings.
- Clean and prepare furniture for upholstery, ensuring proper fit and finish.
- Ensure accurate measurements, neat finishing and quality workmanship.
- Maintain material wastage and organise the workspace.
- Follow all health and safety procedures and report required defects.
- Record and report completed jobs and material requirements.
Requirements
- Good knowledge of furniture repair skills.
- Good measuring, cutting, sewing and fitting skills.
- Ability to work with hands and use hand and power tools.
- Good knowledge of upholstery materials and techniques.
- Attention to detail and ability to finish work to high standards.
- Good communication, teamwork, reliability and quality workmanship.
- Valid upholstery certificate (relevant trade qualification).
- Valid driver’s licence.
- Previous experience in upholstery (minimum 2 years preferred).
How to Apply
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications or experience do I need to apply for a temporary upholsterer position at a company like Kenmart Investments?
Most employers in Lesotho require a minimum of a JC or LGCSE certificate, though a vocational certificate in upholstery or furniture making from institutions like Lerotholi Polytechnic is highly preferred. Practical experience of 1–2 years in furniture repair, fabric cutting, or foam replacement is often valued more than formal education. Some employers may accept candidates who have completed apprenticeships with established furniture workshops in Maseru or Maputsoe.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a temporary upholsterer in Lesotho?
Daily tasks include stripping old fabric and padding from furniture frames, measuring and cutting replacement materials, and applying new upholstery using hand tools and sewing machines. You will also repair or rebuild springs and webbing, match fabrics to customer specifications, and maintain a clean workspace. Temporary roles often require flexibility to support peak production periods or special projects.
How does temporary employment work in Lesotho, and what should I expect regarding job security?
Temporary contracts in Lesotho are typically fixed-term, lasting from a few weeks to several months depending on workload demand. Under the Labour Code Order of 1992, you are entitled to written terms of employment and pro-rated leave benefits, though permanent benefits like pension contributions may not apply. Many workers use temporary roles to prove their skills and secure permanent positions, so reliability and quality workmanship are essential.
What benefits can I realistically expect as a temporary upholsterer in Lesotho?
Benefits vary by employer, but temporary workers often receive basic protections under labour law including safe working conditions and paid public holidays. Medical aid and pension contributions are less common for short-term contracts unless specified in your agreement. Some larger manufacturers may offer transport allowances or meals during shifts, so it is important to clarify terms before signing.
What is the work culture like for tradespeople in Lesotho's furniture and manufacturing sector?
Punctuality and respect for hierarchy are highly valued, with supervisors expecting direct communication about progress and any material shortages. Teamwork is essential, as upholsterers often coordinate with carpenters and finishers to meet production deadlines. Showing initiative and willingness to learn new techniques can distinguish you in a competitive local market.
How can I improve my chances of being hired or converting a temporary role to permanent employment?
Build a portfolio documenting your completed projects, including before-and-after photographs and fabric types used. Network actively through trade associations and local furniture markets in Maseru, as many positions are filled through referrals. Demonstrating consistency, arriving prepared with your own basic tools, and expressing interest in long-term growth signals commitment to employers.