Shoe Cobbler Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an era of fast fashion, the appreciation for shoe cobblers and their craft is being rediscovered.

As society takes a step towards sustainability, the demand for skilled artisans who can repair, restore, and revitalize our footwear is on the rise.

But what is truly expected from a shoe cobbler?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker attempting to understand the nuances of this role,
• A hiring manager conceptualizing the perfect fit,
• Or simply intrigued by the intricate craft of shoe cobbling,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable shoe cobbler job description template, designed for seamless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Shoe Cobbler Duties and Responsibilities

Shoe Cobblers utilize a blend of traditional and modern techniques to repair and restore footwear.

They often work with a variety of materials like leather, rubber and fabric and may also provide services such as custom footwear creation and modification.

Shoe Cobblers are primarily responsible for directly serving clients, with daily duties and responsibilities including:

• Evaluating the condition of shoes to determine the necessary repairs or modifications
• Replacing soles and heels, fixing structural damage and mending tears in the material
• Stretching shoes to accommodate a client’s foot shape or size
• Polishing and shining shoes to restore their original appearance
• Replacing or repairing shoe accessories such as buckles, zippers, and laces
• Creating custom footwear according to client specifications
• Providing clients with advice on shoe care and maintenance
• Ordering cobbling supplies and managing inventory

 

Shoe Cobbler Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a skilled Shoe Cobbler to join our team.

The successful candidate will have a strong understanding of footwear construction and repair techniques.

The Shoe Cobbler will be responsible for repairing various types of shoes and boots, including replacing soles and heels, fixing broken heels, and mending torn areas.

The role requires excellent attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining high standards of workmanship.

 

Responsibilities

• Examine shoes and boots to determine the nature and extent of wear and damage.
• Perform various shoe repair tasks including replacing soles and heels, mending torn areas, and re-stitching seams.
• Use a variety of hand and power tools, including hammers, knives, and sewing machines.
• Provide excellent customer service, including providing quotes for repair work and advising customers on proper shoe care.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area.
• Perform shoe fittings and adjustments as necessary.
• Stay updated with new shoe styles, materials, and repair techniques.

 

Qualifications

• Prior experience as a Shoe Cobbler or in a related role.
• Knowledge of various types of shoes and materials.
• Proficiency with hand and power tools used in shoe repair.
• Excellent hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent customer service skills.

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Opportunities for professional development and learning new skills

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Shoe Cobbler
• Work Environment: Workshop setting. The role involves standing for long periods and working with various hand and power tools.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Store Manager or Business Owner.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• 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 cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Shoe Cobbler Do?

Shoe Cobblers, also known as Shoe Repairers, primarily work in shoe repair shops, boutiques, or can run their own businesses.

Their main responsibility is to repair footwear, although some may also work on other items such as belts, bags, and luggage.

Shoe Cobblers assess the condition of shoes and determine what kind of repair is needed.

This may include replacing soles or heels, stitching tears, or fixing other forms of damage.

They also polish and shine shoes, and may apply weather-proofing substances to protect the shoes from water and stains.

Advanced cobbling skills include creating custom orthotics and modifying shoes for people with special footwear needs.

Cobblers may also stretch shoes to better fit a customer’s foot and provide advice on shoe care and maintenance.

In addition to their technical skills, Shoe Cobblers often interact directly with customers, taking in their shoes for repair, discussing the work needed, and returning the repaired items.

Therefore, customer service is a key part of a cobbler’s role.

Shoe Cobblers may also offer services like key cutting or engraving, broadening their range of services and making their shops more of a one-stop solution for customers.

 

Shoe Cobbler Qualifications and Skills

A qualified shoe cobbler should have the skills and qualifications that align with the job role, which include:

• Technical skills to repair various types of shoes, boots, and other footwear with proficiency.
• Manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination for performing precise tasks such as stitching, cutting, and polishing.
• Understanding of different shoe materials and their maintenance to provide proper care and repair guidance to customers.
• Customer service skills to interact with customers, understand their needs, and provide satisfactory service.
• Attention to detail to identify and fix minor and major defects in footwear.
• Problem-solving skills to diagnose and address complex repair issues.
• Patience and precision to work on time-consuming tasks without compromising the quality of the repair.
• Physical stamina to stand for extended periods and carry out repetitive tasks.
• Business management skills, if running an independent shop, to handle inventory, finances, and customer relations.

 

Shoe Cobbler Experience Requirements

Shoe cobblers typically start their career by attending a vocational or trade school that offers courses in shoe repair and leather work.

Some may also begin as apprentices under experienced cobblers to acquire practical hands-on experience.

The initial learning stage can range between 1 to 2 years, including theoretical and practical training in stitching, patching, and re-soles, among other basic shoe repair tasks.

This foundational experience qualifies them for entry-level positions in shoe repair shops.

Cobblers with 3 to 5 years of experience likely have honed their skills in complex tasks such as mold making, insole replacement, or restoration of vintage shoes.

They might have also developed expertise in working with a variety of materials including leather, suede, and synthetic materials.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are generally considered highly skilled cobblers.

They may have experience in not only shoe repair but also design and custom footwear creation.

Such cobblers may be ready to take on supervisory roles or start their own shoe repair and design business.

 

Shoe Cobbler Education and Training Requirements

Shoe cobblers, also known as shoe repairers, generally learn their trade through on-the-job training, where they work under the supervision of an experienced cobbler.

There are no formal education requirements to become a shoe cobbler, but having a high school diploma can be beneficial.

Skills in basic mathematics and understanding of materials can be useful in this profession.

For those interested in acquiring more structured knowledge, there are vocational and trade schools that offer courses in shoe repair and making.

These programs typically cover different types of footwear, the various materials used in shoe making, and the techniques and tools required in the trade.

Apprenticeship programs are also available and typically involve a combination of classroom instruction and practical hands-on experience.

These programs can take up to two years to complete and often culminate in a certification.

While not required, certification from a professional organization, such as the Shoe Service Institute of America (SSIA), can demonstrate a cobbler’s competence and dedication to the profession.

To stay updated with the latest techniques and materials, cobblers may also attend workshops and seminars, or take advanced courses.

Some cobblers may choose to specialize in certain areas, such as orthopedic or bespoke shoe making, which may require additional training and education.

 

Shoe Cobbler Salary Expectations

The average wage for a Shoe Cobbler is $13.76 (USD) per hour.

Annual earnings typically range between $20,000 to $50,000 (USD) based on experience, expertise, and the location of employment.

 

Shoe Cobbler Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Shoe Cobbler need?

A shoe cobbler needs a variety of skills, including manual dexterity for the precision required in repairing shoes.

They also need problem-solving skills to diagnose and fix issues with shoes.

A background in customer service is beneficial for interacting with clients, understanding their needs, and ensuring satisfaction.

Familiarity with various types of footwear materials and repair techniques is also essential.

 

Do Shoe Cobblers need specific qualifications?

While a degree is not required to become a shoe cobbler, vocational training in shoe repair or a related field can be beneficial.

Apprenticeships are also a common way to gain practical experience and learn the trade.

Many shoe cobblers start as assistants and learn on the job.

 

What should you look for in a Shoe Cobbler’s resume?

In a shoe cobbler’s resume, look for experience with shoe repairs, including the types of shoes and materials they have worked with.

Any qualifications or training in shoe repair or related fields should be highlighted.

Customer service skills and experience can also be a plus, as cobblers often interact directly with customers.

 

What qualities make a good Shoe Cobbler?

A good shoe cobbler is meticulous and has an eye for detail, as shoe repair often involves intricate work.

Patience is also essential, as some repairs can be time-consuming.

A good cobbler should also have strong customer service skills, as understanding and meeting the customer’s needs is crucial.

Lastly, creativity and artistic skills can be beneficial for tasks like designing custom footwear or doing detailed restoration work.

 

What is the career progression for a Shoe Cobbler?

Many shoe cobblers start as assistants and learn the trade through hands-on experience.

With time and experience, they may advance to handling more complex repairs and eventually manage their own shop.

Some cobblers may also specialize in certain types of footwear or materials, or branch out into related areas like leather goods repair or custom footwear design.

 

Conclusion

So, there you have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the intricacies of what it truly means to be a shoe cobbler.

Surprised?

It’s not just about repairing shoes.

It’s about preserving tradition, one stitch at a time.

With our handy shoe cobbler job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to step forward.

But why pause there?

Stride further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to curating expertly crafted listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Each stitch is a part of a larger tapestry.

Let’s sustain that tradition. Together.

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