Leather finishing operator
Also known as: finishing machinist, finishing range operator, milling drum operator, leather embossing machine operator, plating machine operator, finisher
About this occupation
Leather finishing operators use machines for finishing leather according to the required specifications by the client for surface characteristics such as colour nuance, quality, pattern and special properties such as waterproofness, antiflame retardance, antifogging of the leather. They arrange the dosage of finishing mixes to apply to the leather and do the routine maintenance of the machinery.
A specialisation of leather production machine operator.
Essential skills and knowledge
- apply colouring recipes correctly
- identify with the company's goals
- prepare colour mixtures
- leather finishing technologies
- stay alert
- spray finishing technology
- use communication techniques
- execute working instructions
- adapt to changing situations
- maintain equipment
- work in textile manufacturing teams
Typical tasks and preparation
From the related US occupation profile Production Workers, All Other (O*NET 51-9199.00). Linked by an official crosswalk: related, not identical; details vary by country.
US median pay: US$40,110 a year (2025), 251,700 employed. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics.