Employers will generally be furniture manufacturers, suppliers of wood, or construction companies but self employment is an option some people proficient with furniture furnishing skill consider. Furniture finishers typically work indoors, usually in a shop where light and ventilation should be ample. The noise levels are usually high and there is likely to be airborne sawdust and chemicals. Temperatures can be very hot (more than 90°F) or very cold (less than 32°F). Working with high speed woodworking machinery carries some risk of injury.

A furniture finisher may have to lift or push weights of as much as 55lbs, so lower back and abdominal muscles should be strong. Most of the day is usually spent standing and it is often necessary to bend and twist the body frequently. Hand dexterity is also important to hold objects and tools.

In the workplace, furniture finishers deal with chemicals that might be explosive, and there may be high voltage electricity. A protective mask and clothing may be necessary on the job; some lacquers emit unpleasant fumes and toxic chemicals could present a health hazard. The work is difficult and messy. Job satisfaction can be derived from working with one's hands, working as part of a team, having a wide variety of tasks, and performing good workmanship.