312,500 jobs are available in the Home Furnishings job market. The Home Furnishings job market offers a variety of career opportunities for individuals interested in design, sales, manufacturing, and more.
What is Home Furnishings? Home Furnishings is a broad term that encompasses a range of products and services related to interior design and home decor. It includes everything from furniture, lighting, and textiles to rugs, art, and accessories.
Home Furnishings also covers the design and installation of custom cabinetry and built-in storage solutions. In short, Home Furnishings is the industry that creates and provides the products and services that make a house feel like a home.
Overview of the Home Furnishings Job Market
According to a ResearchAndMarkets.com report, the global home furnishings market size is valued at $652.6 billion. It is also expected to increase at a 5.8% growth rate from 2021 to 2028.
The level of demand for jobs in the Home Furnishings industry is about as fast as the average for all occupations. There is a growing need for skilled workers in the field, as well as in sales, marketing, and logistics, among others. This makes it a good career path for those interested.
A Sales Manager oversees sales teams and drives revenue growth for a Home Furnishings company. The skills required for this role include strong leadership abilities, sales acumen, and strategic thinking. This is one of the best-paying jobs in Home Furnishings.
The minimum educational requirement is a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration or a related field. The job growth rate is positive, as the BLS projects a 7% increase from 2021 to 2031. This will create over 5,430 new job opportunities in the US.
Architect
Average Annual Salary: $89,560
Available Jobs: 121,000
An Architect designs and plans the construction of buildings and other structures, including furniture and home furnishings. They work with clients, engineers, and other professionals to create plans and specifications that meet building codes and other requirements. Creativity, communication, problem-solving, and analytical skills are some skills they need.
The minimum educational requirement is a Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Architecture or a related field. The job outlook is positive with 6% growth rate from 2021 to 2031, according to the BLS. This will create over 9,700 new job opportunities in the US.
Interior Designer
Average Annual Salary: $57,660
Available Jobs: 61,900
An Interior Designer plans and creates functional and aesthetically pleasing indoor spaces for clients. They need to have strong creativity and design skills, communication skills, and be knowledgeable about building codes and safety regulations.
The minimum educational requirement is a Bachelor’s Degree in Interior Design or a related field. The job outlook is positive with 4% growth rate from 2021 to 2031, according to the BLS. This will create about 2,900 new job opportunities in the US.
Visual Merchandiser
Average Annual Salary: $42,000
Available Jobs: 41,200
A Visual Merchandiser designs and creates visually appealing displays to showcase products. The skills required for this role include creativity, attention to detail, and strong communication skills.
The minimum educational requirement is a High School Diploma or equivalent. The job outlook is positive with 6% growth rate from 2021 to 2031, according to the BLS. This will create over 4,800 new job opportunities in the US.
An Upholsterer restores and rebuilds furniture by replacing or repairing upholstery, padding, and springs. They also cut, sew, and install new fabric or leather covers. Dexterity, attention to detail, and physical stamina are some skills they need.
The minimum educational requirement is a High School Diploma or equivalent. The job growth rate is negative, as the BLS projects a 5% decline from 2021 to 2031. This will result in a loss of over 11,700 job opportunities in the US.
Customer Service Representative
Average Annual Salary: $36,470
Available Jobs: 43,870
A Customer Service Representative helps customers with complaints, orders, and general inquiries. They need to have excellent communication and problem-solving skills, be able to multitask, and be comfortable working in a fast-paced retail environment.
The minimum educational requirement is a High School Diploma or equivalent. The job growth rate is positive, as the BLS projects a 5% increase from 2021 to 2031. This will create about 136,300 new job opportunities in the US.
Furniture Sales Associate
Average Annual Salary: $35,570
Available Jobs: 66,400
A Furniture Sales Associate assists customers in selecting and purchasing furniture for their homes or businesses. They need to be knowledgeable about the products they sell, have strong customer service skills, and be flexible.
The minimum educational requirement is a High School Diploma or equivalent. The job outlook is positive with 2% growth rate from 2021 to 2031, according to the BLS. This will create about 92,400 job opportunities in the US.
Furniture Finisher
Average Annual Salary: $33,000
Available Jobs: 13,300
A Furniture Finisher sands, stains, and finishes furniture to give it a polished appearance. The skills required for this role include attention to detail, physical dexterity, and knowledge of different finishes and materials.
The minimum educational requirement is a High School Diploma or equivalent. The job growth rate is positive, as the BLS projects a 4% increase from 2021 to 2031. This will create over 3,300 new job opportunities in the US.
Warehouse Associate
Average Annual Salary: $31,670
Available Jobs: 563,000
A Warehouse Associate receives, stores, and ships furniture and other home furnishings. They load and unload furniture from trucks, keep track of inventory, and ensure that orders are filled accurately and efficiently. Physical stamina, attention to detail, and organizational skills are some skills a Warehouse Associate needs.
The minimum educational requirement is a High School Diploma or equivalent. The job outlook is positive with 5% growth rate from 2021 to 2031, according to the BLS. This will create over 14,300 new job opportunities in the US.
A Sales Associate helps customers find and purchase the right products for their needs. They need to have excellent customer service skills, be knowledgeable about the products, and be comfortable working in a fast-paced retail environment.
The minimum educational requirement is a High School Diploma or equivalent. The job growth rate is positive, as the BLS projects a 2% increase from 2021 to 2031. This will add about 92,400 job opportunities in the US.
Other jobs available in Home Furnishings
Product Development Managers ($99,340)
E-commerce Specialists ($77,520)
Textile Designers ($69,810)
CAD Technicians ($57,900)
Showroom Managers ($50,520)
5 Most Common Available Entry-Level Home Furnishings Jobs
A Visual Merchandiser works in retail stores and create eye-catching displays to showcase products. They may also assist with inventory management and product placement, and must have a strong sense of design and the ability to work independently.
No formal education is required for this role, but experience in retail or design is preferred. The job outlook is positive with 6% growth rate from 2021 to 2031, according to the BLS. This will create over 4,800 new job opportunities in the US.
Interior Design Assistant
Average Annual Salary: $37,620
Available Jobs: 3,760
An Interior Design Assistant works with interior designers to create functional and attractive spaces for clients. They may assist with space planning, material selection, and project management, and must have a strong eye for design and attention to detail.
The minimum educational requirement is a Degree or Certificate in Interior Design, but it is not always required. The job outlook is positive with 3% growth rate from 2021 to 2031, according to the BLS. This will create over 5,600 new job opportunities in the US.
Customer Service Representative
Average Annual Salary: $36,470
Available Jobs: 43,870
A Customer Service Representative works in a variety of industries, including Home Furnishings, and assists customers with questions, concerns, and complaints. They may communicate with customers over the phone, email, or chat, and must have excellent communication skills and the ability to multitask.
The minimum educational requirement is a High School Diploma. The job growth rate is positive, as the BLS projects a 5% increase from 2021 to 2031. This will create about 136,300 new job opportunities in the US.
Warehouse Associate
Average Annual Salary: $31,670
Available Jobs: 563,000
A Warehouse Associate works in distribution centers and receives, stores, and ships products. They may operate forklifts or other equipment, and must have strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
No formal education is required for this role, but experience in a warehouse or manufacturing environment is preferred. The job outlook is positive with 5% growth rate from 2021 to 2031, according to the BLS. This will create over 14,300 new job opportunities in the US.
A Sales Associate works in retail stores and assists customers with their purchases. They may also help with visual merchandising, restocking products, and maintaining a clean and organized store.
No formal education is required for this role, but strong customer service skills and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are essential. The job growth rate is positive, as the BLS projects a 2% increase from 2021 to 2031. This will add about 92,400 job opportunities in the US.
What is the Job Description of a Home Furnishings Professional?
Home Furnishings professionals are responsible for creating, designing, manufacturing, and selling various home products that include furniture, bedding, and home decor. These professionals work in various settings such as design firms, furniture stores, manufacturing companies, and retail stores. They collaborate with clients, customers, and colleagues to develop and deliver creative solutions that meet their specific needs and preferences.
10 major activities carried out by Home Furnishings professionals:
Designing and creating new home products, such as furniture, bedding, and home decor.
Collaborating with clients, customers, and colleagues to develop and deliver creative solutions that meet their specific needs and preferences.
Conducting market research and staying up-to-date on trends and consumer preferences in the industry.
Selecting and sourcing materials, such as wood, fabric, and metal, for use in creating home products.
Developing and managing budgets for projects and products.
Overseeing the manufacturing and production of home products to ensure quality and timely delivery.
Marketing and promoting home products to potential customers through advertising, events, and other marketing channels.
Providing excellent customer service to clients and customers, including answering questions and addressing concerns.
Maintaining inventory levels and ensuring that products are properly displayed and stocked in retail settings.
How to Apply and Get a Job in Home Furnishings?
If you’re interested in pursuing a career in the Home Furnishings industry, it’s important to know the steps you can take to secure a job. There are several strategies you can use to increase your chances of getting hired.
5 practical steps to apply and get a job in Home Furnishings:
Obtain the required education
Many Home Furnishings jobs require a degree or certification in a related field, such as interior design, furniture design, or merchandising. Consider pursuing a degree or certification program that aligns with your career goals.
Gain relevant experience
Internships, apprenticeships, and entry-level positions can provide valuable experience and help you build a portfolio of work that showcases your skills and expertise.
Develop your skills
Home Furnishings professionals must possess a range of skills, including design, project management, communication, and customer service. Consider taking classes or workshops to develop and enhance your skills in these areas.
Build your network
Join professional organizations, and connect with other professionals in the Home Furnishings industry to build your network and learn about job opportunities.
Prepare for job interviews
Once you have identified job opportunities that align with your career goals, research the company and prepare for job interviews. Practise your interview skills, prepare thoughtful questions to ask during the interview, and ensure that your resume is up-to-date.
How to apply and get an entry-level job in Home Furnishings?
Starting a career in Home Furnishings can be an exciting prospect, but it can also be challenging to find your first job in the industry. However, there are several ways to improve your chances of landing an entry-level position.
5 basic steps to apply and get an entry-level job in Home Furnishings:
Build your portfolio
Employers often want to see examples of your work. Consider taking on small projects or internships to build your portfolio of work. Create a portfolio of your work and develop a personal brand to showcase your skills and personality to potential employers.
Develop soft skills
In addition to technical skills, many Home Furnishings employers value soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Look for opportunities to develop these skills, such as through volunteer work, leadership roles in student organizations, or part-time jobs.
Create a stand-out application
When applying for entry-level Home Furnishings jobs, make sure your application stands out from the competition. Customize your resume and cover letter to each position you apply for, and be sure to highlight any relevant experience or skills you have.
Volunteer or intern
Consider volunteering or interning with a Home Furnishings company or organization to gain experience and make connections in the industry. This can also be a great way to learn about the industry and which roles are the best fit for you.
Consider temp or part-time work
Temporary or part-time positions can be a great way to get your foot in the door of the Home Furnishings industry. Many companies hire temporary workers during peak seasons, and some may offer the opportunity to transition into a full-time role.
Additional tips for finding available jobs in Home Furnishings
Attending events and job fairs that focus on the Home Furnishings industry can help you connect with potential employers and learn more about available job opportunities.
Joining a professional organization in the Home Furnishings industry can provide networking opportunities, job listings, and access to industry resources.
Follow Home Furnishings companies and industry professionals on social media platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter. They often post job openings and provide industry updates that can help you stay informed.
Websites like Indeed, Glassdoor, and CareerBuilder frequently post Home Furnishings job openings. You can also check industry-specific job boards like Furniture Today.
If there is a Home Furnishings company you are interested in working for, don’t hesitate to reach out to them directly. You can inquire about job openings or express your interest in working for them even if there are no current job postings. This can help you establish a connection and increase your chances of being considered for future job openings.
What are the Educational Requirements and Training for Home Furnishings Jobs?
Education and training are essential components of any successful career, and the home furnishings industry is no exception. Depending on the specific job you’re interested in, there may be various educational requirements and training programs you’ll need to complete to qualify for the position. Knowing what these are can help you prepare for a career in the industry.
Education
The educational requirements for Home Furnishings jobs may vary depending on the specific job position. However, most employers prefer candidates with a High School Diploma or equivalent.
Some jobs in the industry, such as design positions, may require a Bachelor’s Degree in Interior Design or a related field.
Additionally, having a background in Business, Marketing, or Sales can also be advantageous for Home Furnishings professionals.
Training and Certifications
Home Furnishings professionals can acquire additional training and certifications to enhance their skills and improve their chances of getting hired or advancing their careers.
For instance, the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) offers certification programs for Kitchen and Bath Designers.
Similarly, the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) provides various certification options for Interior Designers.
Other industry-specific certifications include the Certified Kitchen Designer (CKD) and Certified Bath Designer (CBD) credentials from the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA).
Additionally, some manufacturers and retailers in the Home Furnishings industry offer their own training programs and certifications to their employees.
Where Do I Find Home Furnishings Jobs?
If you’re looking for job opportunities in the Home Furnishings industry, there are several channels and platforms you can use to find openings. There are many resources available to help you locate relevant positions and connect with potential employers.
5 job boards where you can find Home Furnishings jobs:
Home Furnishings Association (HFA) Job Board
The HFA job board lists job openings in the home furnishings industry, including retail, design, manufacturing, and more. It is a great resource for those looking for jobs in the industry.
Furniture World Jobs
Furniture World Jobs is an online job board dedicated to the furniture and home furnishings industry. It features job openings in various fields, including retail, manufacturing, design, and more.
Interior Design Jobs
Interior Design Jobs is a job board that specializes in listing job openings in the interior design industry, including jobs related to home furnishings. It features job listings from around the world and allows users to search by location, company, and job title.
Archiproducts
Archiproducts is a platform that connects Architects, Designers, and professionals in the home furnishings industry with job opportunities. It features job listings in various fields, including design, sales, and management.
International Interior Design Association (IIDA) Career Center
The IIDA Career Center focuses on interior design and architecture jobs, including positions in the home furnishings industry. It offers access to a variety of job listings from top employers in the industry, and helpful resources for career development.
What are the Skills Needed to Get a Job in Home Furnishings?
Like any industry, home furnishings requires a specific set of skills and qualities to succeed. Knowing what these are can help you develop your skills and improve your chances of landing a job.
5 essential skills needed to get a job in Home Furnishings:
Creativity
Home Furnishings professionals need to be creative and innovative in order to develop unique designs that meet their clients’ needs. They should be able to think outside the box, and come up with ideas that are both practical and aesthetically pleasing.
Attention to detail
Attention to detail is crucial in Home Furnishings jobs as professionals need to ensure that all aspects of a project are perfect. This includes choosing the right colors, materials, and finishes, as well as ensuring that all measurements are precise.
Communication
Good communication skills are essential in Home Furnishings jobs as professionals need to liaise with clients, suppliers, and other stakeholders. They should be able to listen actively, express themselves clearly, and negotiate effectively to ensure that everyone is on the same page.
Technical skills
Technical skills are important in Home Furnishings jobs as professionals need to use specialized software and equipment to create designs, drawings, and prototypes. They should also have knowledge of building codes, safety regulations, and materials science.
Time management
Time management skills are critical in Home Furnishings jobs as professionals need to meet deadlines and manage multiple projects simultaneously. They should be able to prioritize tasks, plan effectively, and stay organized to ensure that they can deliver projects within budget.
What are the Factors Affecting the Availability of Jobs in Home Furnishings Consumer Services?
As with any industry, the home furnishings sector is subject to various external and internal factors that can affect the availability of jobs. Understanding these factors can give you insight into the job market and inform your career decisions.
5 major factors affecting the availability of jobs in Home Furnishings:
Economic Factors
The availability of jobs in the Home Furnishings Consumer Services industry can be affected by the state of the economy. When the economy is thriving, consumers tend to have more disposable income to spend on home furnishings and décor. This leads to an increase in demand for these products and, in turn, more job opportunities.
On the other hand, during a recession or economic downturn, consumers tend to cut back on discretionary spending. This can lead to a decrease in demand for home furnishings, resulting in fewer job opportunities.
Technology
Technology is rapidly changing the Home Furnishings Consumer Services industry. As new technologies are introduced, the need for workers with new and specialized skills is also increasing.
For instance, the use of 3D printing technology and VR tools in furniture and décor design has created new roles for workers. Conversely, workers without these skills may find it challenging to compete for jobs or may need to undergo additional training.
Consumer trends
Home furnishings and décor trends are constantly evolving, with consumer preferences and tastes changing over time. This can lead to shifts in demand for certain types of products or styles. Subsequently, the types of jobs that are available in the industry will be affected.
For instance, if consumers start favoring sustainable and eco-friendly products, jobs in manufacturing and design of such products may increase.
Seasonal demand
Demand for Home Furnishings Consumer Services jobs can also be affected by seasonal trends. For example, during the holiday season or back-to-school period, there may be a higher demand for furniture, home décor, and other related products. This can lead to an increase in jobs.
Competition and consolidation
The Home Furnishings Consumer Services industry is becoming increasingly competitive, with large retailers and online marketplaces expanding their reach. This consolidation can lead to a decrease in the number of independent stores and businesses, potentially resulting in fewer job opportunities. However, it can also lead to larger companies expanding their operations and creating new jobs in areas such as marketing, logistics, and e-commerce.
Conclusion: How Many Jobs are Available in Home Furnishings?
Approximately 312,500 jobs are available in Home Furnishings. The Home Furnishings industry continues to provide numerous job opportunities to job seekers looking to pursue a career in this field.
FAQs: How Many Jobs are Available in Home Furnishings?
What is the most common job in Home Furnishings?
The most common jobs in Home Furnishings include Sales Associate, Interior Designer, Visual Merchandiser, Customer Service Representative, and Furniture Repair Technician.
What roles are available in Home Furnishings?
The roles available in Home Furnishings include Interior Designer, Visual Merchandiser, Marketing Specialist, E-commerce Specialist, Supply Chain Manager, among others.
Are there a lot of jobs in Home Furnishings?
Yes, there are a significant number of jobs in Home Furnishings. Currently, there are over 300,000 jobs available, and the BLS projects a 4% growth from 2021 to 2031, the employment of Home Furnishings-related occupations.
Are Home Furnishings jobs easy?
The difficulty of Home Furnishings jobs varies depending on the specific job and individual. Some jobs, such as Sales Associate or Customer Service Representative, may be relatively easier. Others, such as Interior Designer or Furniture Repair Technician, may require more specialized skills and knowledge.
What is the hardest Home Furnishings job to get?
Generally, jobs that require more specialized skills and knowledge, such as Interior Designer or Furniture Repair Technician, may be more challenging to get. However, with the right education, training, and experience, any Home Furnishings job can be within reach.
