Barrel Repairer
たるしゅうりこう
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Artisan who repairs damaged parts of wooden barrels used for sake, wine, etc., restoring airtightness and durability.
Description
Barrel repairers are professionals who repair and maintain wooden barrels used for aging whiskey, wine, sake, etc. They inspect the inside and outside of barrels to check for cracks, wood wear, loose or damaged metal hoops, and as needed, perform repairs using wood pieces (stubs) and adhesives, as well as replacing or tightening fittings. After repair, they test for water or air leaks to ensure quality. Understanding wood properties and high-precision manual work are required, and they work in sake breweries, wineries, distilleries, etc.
Future Outlook
Demand is stable with the continuation of sake breweries and wineries, but succession due to lack of successors is a challenge. As the value as traditional craft is reevaluated, the market value of specialist technicians tends to increase.
Personality Traits
Dexterous with hands and good at detailed work / Interested in traditional techniques / Meticulous / Patient / Physically strong
Work Style
Business Trips / Contract Employee / Self-employed Freelance / Workshop Employment
Career Path
Apprentice Repairer → Barrel Repairer → Workshop Manager → Independent Business → Instructor/Trainer
Required Skills
Hand Tool Operation / Metal Hoop Tightening Technique / Use of Sealing Materials and Adhesives / Watertightness Test / Wood Drying Diagnosis
Recommended Skills
Lathe Processing / Metal Processing / Quality Control / Reading English Literature / Wood Properties and Moisture Content Management
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Required due to the need for precision to not miss small cracks or looseness. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Required because of frequent lifting of heavy barrels and long hours of standing work. |
| Problem Solving | Required because the ability to determine the optimal repair method for different damage locations on each barrel is needed. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Low because complex calculations are few, mainly manual work. |
Related Qualifications
- Wood Processing Skills Technician
Aliases
- Barrel Artisan
- Cooper
Related Jobs
- Barrel Maker
- Traditional Artisan
- Woodworker