Leather Worker Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of craftsmanship, the attention on leather workers is more pronounced than ever.

Artistry evolves, and with each advancement, the demand for skilled hands that can craft, enhance, and preserve our leather creations heightens.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a leather worker?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to comprehend the nuances of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricate details of leather working,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable leather worker job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Leather Worker Duties and Responsibilities

Leather Workers utilize a combination of manual skills and machinery to transform raw hides into finished leather goods.

They perform a variety of tasks related to leather processing, crafting, and repair.

Leather Workers are mainly responsible for creating and restoring leather items, with daily duties and responsibilities including:

• Selecting, inspecting, and buying leather and other materials needed for the production of goods
• Cutting and shaping leather pieces by following patterns or templates
• Performing tasks such as dyeing, stitching, embossing and finishing leather goods
• Designing and crafting leather items such as bags, belts, wallets, shoes, and upholstery
• Repairing damaged leather goods and products
• Use of various hand tools and machines specific to leatherwork, such as skiving knives, punches, and sewing machines
• Maintaining safety and cleanliness standards in the working area
• Consulting with clients to determine their specifications and requirements for custom orders
• Performing quality control checks on finished products

 

Leather Worker Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are searching for a skilled leather worker to join our team.

Your primary responsibility will be to design, cut, and assemble leather goods.

These products may include items like wallets, bags, belts, and other accessories.

Our ideal candidate has a solid understanding of leatherworking techniques, is detail-oriented, and possesses a keen eye for quality.

Ultimately, the role of the leather worker is to create high-quality, stylish, and durable leather goods that meet our brand’s aesthetic and quality standards.

 

Responsibilities

• Design and create a variety of leather goods
• Select appropriate leather and other materials
• Use hand tools and machinery to cut and shape leather
• Assemble and sew leather pieces together
• Apply finishes to protect and beautify leather items
• Perform quality checks for defects and ensure adherence to design specifications
• Repair and restore damaged leather goods
• Maintain a clean and organized workspace
• Stay updated with latest trends in leather goods and techniques

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a leather worker or similar role
• Ability to work with different types of leather and materials
• Proficiency in using hand tools and leatherworking machinery
• Excellent attention to detail
• A keen eye for aesthetics and quality
• Good hand-eye coordination
• Ability to stand for long periods of time
• High school diploma or equivalent. Additional certification in Leatherwork or a related field is a plus.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Leather Worker
• Work Environment: Workshop setting. The role involves standing for long periods, and handling of sharp tools and machinery.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Workshop Manager or Lead Leather Worker.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $35,000 minimum to $60,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a portfolio showcasing your work to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Leather Worker Do?

Leather Workers are skilled craftspeople who work with leather to create a variety of items.

They typically work for leather goods companies, in artisanal workshops or as self-employed individuals.

They are involved in the entire process of creating leather goods, from selecting and buying the raw materials to the final finishing touches on a product.

This process can involve cutting, shaping, dyeing, and stitching leather.

Their tasks can include designing and creating unique patterns, making sure to effectively use the leather to minimize waste.

They use various tools and machines to cut, stamp, stitch, or weave the leather pieces together.

Leather Workers may specialize in creating specific products such as wallets, belts, bags, shoes, jackets, or other fashion accessories.

They often work to custom orders, crafting items to specific client’s requests and ensuring high quality and satisfaction.

They also perform maintenance and repair work, restoring worn out or damaged leather goods to their original state.

They may also use their skills to create decorative pieces or artwork from leather.

Many Leather Workers also maintain knowledge of various types of leather and their properties, which allows them to select the best material for each project.

Their work requires a great deal of precision, creativity, and attention to detail.

 

Leather Worker Qualifications and Skills

A proficient leather worker should possess the skills and qualifications that align with your job requirements, such as:

• Hand-eye coordination and dexterity for handling and cutting leather with precision.
• Understanding of different types of leather, their properties and how they can be worked with.
• Ability to use a variety of tools like needles, awls, knives, and punches for creating and repairing leather goods.
• Attention to detail to create intricate designs and ensure high-quality final products.
• Patience and precision to work on projects that may require prolonged periods of time.
• Artistic creativity to conceptualize and create unique designs on leather products.
• Physical stamina to stand for extended periods and perform repetitive tasks.
• Problem-solving skills to identify and resolve issues during the creation and repair process.
• Basic knowledge of sewing and stitching to assemble leather pieces.

 

Leather Worker Experience Requirements

Leather workers typically start their careers with vocational training or an apprenticeship, which provides them with the basic techniques and knowledge of leather crafting.

Many leather workers begin their journey with several years of experience in a related field, such as tailoring or crafting, where they can develop an understanding of design and the use of tools.

During their initial years, leather workers often gain experience in a variety of techniques such as cutting, skiving, and stitching leather, as well as learning to create patterns and designs.

This hands-on experience is invaluable and is a core requirement for many leather worker jobs.

Leather workers with more than 3 years of experience often have developed their skills significantly, and may have a portfolio showcasing their craftsmanship in making items like bags, belts, wallets, or other leather goods.

Those with more than 5 years of experience might have managerial or instructional experience, where they have overseen a team of leather workers or taught students the art of leather crafting.

At this level, leather workers might be eligible for roles such as workshop manager or instructor at a vocational school.

 

Leather Worker Education and Training Requirements

Leather Workers typically need a high school diploma or equivalent to start their career.

Some may have completed vocational training programs in leatherwork, shoe making or related fields.

These programs will educate aspiring Leather Workers in the properties of different types of leather, the use of various tools and techniques in creating leather products, and the safety procedures to follow when working with leather.

While formal education is not always required, having a certificate or diploma in leather crafting, fashion design, or a related discipline can be advantageous.

Some Leather Workers may also undertake apprenticeships to gain hands-on experience and learn the craft from seasoned professionals.

Many Leather Workers continue to hone their skills throughout their career, mastering new techniques or specialising in a certain type of leather product.

Although not mandatory, certification from professional bodies, such as the Leather Crafters & Saddlers Journal, can showcase a Leather Worker’s proficiency and commitment to their craft.

In addition to these, creativity, attention to detail, and good hand-eye coordination are important skills for Leather Workers.

 

Leather Worker Salary Expectations

A Leather Worker can expect to earn an average salary of $31,630 (USD) per year.

However, the exact salary can vary significantly depending on experience, level of craftsmanship, the size of the employing company, and geographical location.

 

Leather Worker Job Description FAQs

What skills does a leather worker need?

Leather workers require a range of technical and creative skills.

They need to be adept at sewing, cutting, and dyeing leather.

They should also be skilled in creating patterns and designs.

Additionally, they should have excellent hand-eye coordination, attention to detail, and the ability to work with precision.

Knowledge of safety procedures related to handling leather and tools is also important.

 

Do leather workers need any specific education or training?

Formal education is not typically required for leather workers.

However, many professionals in this field have completed courses or apprenticeships in leatherworking, fashion design, or related fields.

It’s also beneficial to have hands-on experience working with leather, either through personal projects or under the guidance of an experienced leather worker.

 

What should you look for in a leather worker’s resume?

Look for a combination of relevant education, hands-on experience, and a portfolio of their work.

A strong candidate will have experience with a wide range of leatherworking techniques and tools.

They may also have experience in related areas such as fashion design or upholstery.

Additionally, references from previous employers or mentors can provide valuable insight into the candidate’s work ethic and skill level.

 

What qualities make a good leather worker?

A good leather worker is creative, patient, and has a keen eye for detail.

They should also have excellent manual dexterity and the ability to work accurately with intricate designs and small pieces.

They should be comfortable working with a variety of tools and materials, and have a good understanding of safety procedures.

Lastly, good problem-solving skills are essential for figuring out the best methods to create a desired design or fix mistakes.

 

Is it challenging to find skilled leather workers?

Finding skilled leather workers can be a challenge, as it is a specialized field with a smaller pool of talent than other crafts.

However, by offering competitive wages, investing in training and development, and fostering a creative and supportive work environment, employers can attract and retain talented leather workers.

 

Conclusion

And so, the mystery unfolds.

Today, we’ve explored the intricate details of what it truly means to be a leather worker.

Surprised?

It’s not just about cutting and stitching leather.

It’s about transforming raw hides into functional and beautiful creations, one carefully crafted piece at a time.

Armed with our ready-to-use leather worker job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to advance.

But don’t put your tools down just yet.

Go deeper into the craft with our job description generator. It’s your next step to precision-crafted job listings or perfecting your CV to the T.

Take note:

Each leather piece contributes to a grander masterpiece.

Let’s fashion that future. Together.

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