Spearhead Culture
Spearhead is a multi-faceted, innovation-based manufacturing Company specializing in the fabrication of architecture. From our humble beginnings 35 years ago, we have grown into an industry leading, internationally recognized organization – known for our innovative approach, our strategic use of technology, and our deep appreciation of craft and design. We strive to continually improve upon everything that we do, and we feel fortunate to engage with exceptional industry partners who share our vision and contribute to our relentless pursuit of excellence.
Harnessing the expertise and knowledge of our entire organization, we add value to our projects through global efficiencies and masterful execution. As industry leaders in design for manufacturing and assembly (DfMA), we have built strong and enduring relationships with esteemed architects, engineers, educational institutions, and industry partners – relationships that now generate the bulk of our work and allow us to build momentum across consecutive projects. Resultingly, Spearhead’s industry presence continues to expand and diversify as we collectively address unique and exciting challenges.
We take pride in our positive work environment, value the expertise and contributions of each employee, and celebrate the success of our efforts. Our growing portfolio of work continues to speak to the tremendous momentum that Spearhead has created – a testament to the remarkable ingenuity, dedication, and progressiveness of the entire Spearhead team.
Role: Senior Wood Finisher
Location: Nelson, BC
Reports To: Finishing Manager
Direct Reports: N/A
Role Status: Full-time, Permanent
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Date of Last Review: July 2026
Role Overview
The Senior Wood Finisher at Spearhead represents a department leadership role within our high-end manufacturing operations, demanding exceptional organizational skills, meticulous attention to detail, and an unwavering commitment to craftsmanship excellence. This role focuses on executing advanced finishing techniques on premium timber and steel products while providing mentorship, technical guidance, and project leadership to the finishing team. The position requires advanced technical proficiency, collaborative capabilities, and proven peer leadership skills.
This is a full-time position based on-site in our fabrication shop and plays a critical role in ensuring the efficient execution of complex projects, quality standards, and team development across different project phases. This position is ideally suited for candidates with experience as a Senior Wood Finisher, Cabinet Finisher, Painter and Decorator, Coating Technician, or in a related finishing trade.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
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Read and interpret complex shop drawings, providing guidance on next tasks based on quality control and quality assurance requirements
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Execute advanced finishing techniques on premium timber and steel products, including specialized surface treatments and complex coating applications
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Prepare surfaces of solid timbers and engineered wood products (glulam, CLT) for stain application through advanced sanding, wire brushing, distressing, and specialized surface treatment techniques
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Apply stains and coating products following product specifications, including custom color matching and specialized finish requirements
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Demonstrate expert proficiency with hand tools for squaring, sanding, planing, and advanced fine-finishing requirements
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Execute complex patching, filling, and visual upgrades using wood dutchmen, adhesive fillers, and specialized repair techniques
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Conduct comprehensive quality inspections of all finishing work, ensuring consistency and adherence to premium standards
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Lead and mentor junior finishers, providing hands-on training, technical guidance, and professional development support
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Oversee complex finishing projects, coordinating resources, timelines, and quality standards across multiple workstreams
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Lead problem-solving initiatives when finishing challenges arise, developing innovative solutions and best practices
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Take ownership of high-priority and complex finishing projects, ensuring delivery within scope, schedule, and quality parameters
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Coordinate with other departments to optimize project workflows and resolve cross-functional challenges
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Serve as primary liaison with Finishing Manager for project status updates, resource needs, and strategic planning
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Maintain finishing equipment in optimal working condition and train others on proper maintenance procedures
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Ensure work areas maintain the highest standards of cleanliness and organization
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Champion safety protocols and OHS standards, serving as a role model and safety leader for the team
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Complete additional responsibilities as assigned in support of the Fabrication department and overall Spearhead objectives
Core Competencies
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Innovation & Problem-Solving - applies creative thinking to solve work challenges by combining traditional methods with new approaches. Actively seeks opportunities to improve processes and outcomes within their area of expertise
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Technical Excellence & Craft Mastery - maintains high standards of technical skill and craftsmanship in their specialized area. Continuously develops expertise whether in design, fabrication, finishing, operations, or finance
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Collaborative Partnership & Communication - works effectively with others through clear communication and knowledge sharing. Builds strong working relationships with colleagues, clients, and partners based on trust and mutual support
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Long-term Stewardship & Responsibility - prioritizes safety and invests in developing future capabilities and relationships
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Ownership & Continuous Growth - takes responsibility for work outcomes and commitments while maintaining focus on growth and improvement. Demonstrates reliability and proactive communication while seeking opportunities
Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills, Attributes
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Post-secondary education in a relevant field, or equivalent experience as a Senior Wood Finisher / Cabinet Finisher / Painter and Decorator or Coating Technician
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Minimum of 5 years of experience in finishing, coating, staining, woodworking, carpentry, or painting
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Proven experience in mentoring and leading others
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Strong understanding of working in accordance with quality control and quality assurance standards
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Excellent organizational and time management abilities
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Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment
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Detail-oriented with a focus on delivering high-quality results in a timely manner
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Advanced organizational and time management skills
Schedule and Working Conditions
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Ability to work 7:30-5:15, Monday – Thursday, with a 15-minute paid coffee break and a 30-minute unpaid lunch each day, and every second Friday from 7:30-4:00, with a 15-minute paid coffee break and a 30-minute unpaid lunch each day
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Ability to work on-site at Spearhead headquarters
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Manual dexterity to operate sprayers, brushes, and related finishing tools on a regular basis
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Ability to stand and move around the fabrication shop for work shifts
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Ability to work in a workshop with exposure to dust, chemicals, and noise using required PPE, as needed
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Ability to move and carry materials up to 50 lbs on a regular basis
Compensation
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Pay range estimate is $32-$36/hour commensurate with experience and qualifications
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Extended Health and Dental benefits
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Weekly Indemnity Insurance
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RRSP program with employer contributions up to 5%
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6% Vacation Pay
Statement of Inclusion
Spearhead is committed to fostering a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion. The unique experiences, talents, and perspectives of our employees drive our success and contribute to both our culture and reputation. We believe that embracing diversity and inclusion is essential to attracting, developing, and retaining a talented workforce. By prioritizing these principles, we enhance innovation, improve problem-solving, and strengthen company performance. Our commitment to diversity ensures that every individual’s contributions are valued, empowering us to achieve sustainable success and continued growth.
