Shoe and Leather Workers and Repairer

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  Career Profile

Shoe and Leather Workers and Repairer

What they do

Construct, decorate, or repair leather and leather-like products, such as luggage, shoes, and saddles. May use hand tools.

Also Called: Boot Maker, Cobbler, Leather Worker, Saddle and Harness Maker, Shoe Cutter, Shoe Maker, Shoe Repairer, Shoe Repairman, Stitcher, Boot Maker, Cobbler, Leather Worker, Saddle and Harness Maker, Shoe Cutter, Shoe Maker, Shoe Repairer, Shoe Repairman, Stitcher

$25,620
Starting Salary (2023)
$36,020
Median Salary (2023)
-11.0%
Projected Job Growth
7,230
Employment (2022)

Typical Tasks

Construct, decorate, or repair leather products according to specifications, using sewing machines, needles and thread, leather lacing, glue, clamps, hand tools, or rivets.
Inspect articles for defects, and remove damaged or worn parts, using hand tools.
Align and stitch or glue materials such as fabric, fleece, leather, or wood, to join parts.
Drill or punch holes and insert or attach metal rings, handles, and fastening hardware, such as buckles.
Dye, soak, polish, paint, stamp, stitch, stain, buff, or engrave leather or other materials to obtain desired effects, decorations, or shapes.

A day in the life

What kind of work is this?

Realistic
Practical, Physical Work
Artistic
Conceptual, Creative Work
Conventional
Organized, Procedural Work

What personality traits do you need to succeed?

Cooperation
Attention to Detail
Dependability
Independence
Concern for Others
Persistence

What key skills are needed for this job?

Active Listening
Speaking
Critical Thinking
Monitoring
Social Perceptiveness
Coordination

Expected Knowledge

Production and Processing
Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
Customer and Personal Service
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
Mechanical
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.

Common Activities

Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials
Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings
Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
Controlling Machines and Processes
Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).

More Info

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