Jan Hendzel Studio is looking for a skilled and enthusiastic Furniture Maker to join our award-winning team on a freelance basis during July and August 2026, with potential for ongoing work.
We create expressive furniture, sculptural objects and bespoke interiors that combine impeccable design, craft and precision. Working primarily with British-grown timbers, we push the boundaries of what can be achieved with wood while maintaining an unwavering commitment to quality, longevity and responsible production.
Our projects range from one-off bespoke commissions and commercial joinery to public-facing sculptures, artist collaborations and our own furniture collections exhibited internationally.
Due to a team member going on leave, we are looking to bring an additional maker into the workshop for July and August. This is a freelance role based in our South East London studio, ideally five days per week.
While this opportunity is initially for July and August, we would ideally like to build a longer-term relationship with the right maker. There may be opportunities for ongoing freelance work beyond August and potentially a permanent role in the future should demand continue at its current pace.
The Role
We are looking for a capable and motivated furniture maker with solid experience in bespoke furniture production and a genuine passion for working with timber.
Our work is often technically demanding and design-led, requiring strong practical skills, attention to detail and a willingness to contribute ideas and solutions. You will work closely with our workshop team across a variety of projects, helping deliver work to the highest standards of craftsmanship and quality.
Due to the bespoke and project-led nature of our work, some flexibility around working hours and occasional additional time may be required to help meet project deadlines.
Key Responsibilities
- Manufacture bespoke furniture and joinery to a high standard.
- Work from technical drawings and specifications.
- Assist with all stages of furniture production, from machining and component preparation through to assembly and finishing.
- Contribute to solving technical and production challenges.
- Work collaboratively with designers and fellow makers.
- Maintain workshop organisation and cleanliness.
- Keep machinery, hand tools and equipment in good working order.
- Support the delivery of projects to deadlines while maintaining quality standards.
Skills & Experience
Essential:
- Ideally a minimum of 5 years’ professional experience within solid timber furniture, cabinetry, joinery, or a related field. Candidates with 3+ years’ experience will also be considered where they can demonstrate exceptional ability, a strong portfolio, and experience that is particularly relevant to our current and upcoming projects.
- Good understanding of traditional and contemporary joinery techniques.
- Proven experience working with solid timber and hardwood furniture construction.
- Experience using woodworking machinery and hand tools safely and confidently.
- Ability to read and work from technical drawings.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
- Positive attitude and willingness to learn.
- Good organisational and time-management skills.
- Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
Desirable:
- Experience producing bespoke furniture and one-off pieces.
- CNC experience or an interest in digital manufacturing.
- Furniture installation or site-fitting experience.
- Lathe experience
- Experience working with reclaimed and British grown timbers.
- Interest in contemporary furniture design and craftsmanship.
- Design training or design-led project experience.
About You
You are passionate about making exceptional furniture and take pride in your work. You are reliable, proactive and eager to contribute to a workshop environment where craftsmanship, collaboration and continuous improvement are valued.
You enjoy problem-solving, learning new skills and working on a diverse range of projects. You are equally comfortable working independently or as part of a team.
A personal set of hand tools would be advantageous and very necessary!
What We Offer
- Opportunity to work on unique and ambitious design-led projects.
- Day rate based on your experience.
- Exposure to a wide variety of bespoke furniture and sculptural work.
- A supportive, creative and collaborative workshop environment.
- Professional development and learning opportunities.
- Team lunches prepared on a rotating basis.
- Summer social events and occasional team activities.
- Potential opportunity for a permanent position as the studio continues to grow.
How to Apply
Please send the following to [email protected]:
- CV
- Portfolio
- Phone number
- Current availability and notice period
- A brief introduction outlining why you would like to work with us and what you would bring to the role
Please use “Senior Furniture Maker” as the subject line.
Applications will be reviewed as they are received and interviews may be conducted before the closing date, on July 5th. Early applications are encouraged.
Due to the anticipated volume of applications, we may not be able to respond to every applicant. We thank you in advance for your interest in joining Jan Hendzel Studio.
Pay: £120.00-£140.00 per day
Benefits:
Work Location: In person
