Glue (Nikawa) Manufacturing Worker
ぐるー（にかわ）せいぞうこう
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
A manufacturing technical position that extracts and refines glue (nikawa) from animal-derived raw materials, dries and molds it, and productizes it.
Description
Glue (nikawa) manufacturing workers extract gelatinous substances from animal raw materials such as cow horns and fish bones using hot water, perform acid treatment, filtration, and concentration as needed, then mold and dry them into plate-shaped or powdered nikawa products. In the production process, they operate machinery such as boilers and agitators, manage temperature and viscosity, perform quality inspections (viscosity measurement, color checks), and handle cleaning and hygiene management of the workplace, safety management, and equipment maintenance, which are important tasks. Although it is a traditional material, chemical knowledge and kaizen activities are required for stable product supply and quality maintenance.
Future Outlook
Although demand for animal-based nikawa is declining due to the spread of synthetic adhesives, stable demand is expected in niche markets such as traditional crafts and restoration uses.
Personality Traits
High concentration / Meticulous / Strong sense of responsibility
Work Style
Factory work / Safety gear required / Shift work / Standing work / Uniform required
Career Path
Manufacturing operator → Leader → Production management position → Quality control staff → Factory manager
Required Skills
Hygiene management and cleaning / Machine operation (boiler, agitator) / Quality management / Raw material pretreatment / Temperature and viscosity measurement
Recommended Skills
Basic chemical knowledge / Equipment maintenance / Improvement activities / Knowledge of safety and hygiene regulations
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Attention to detail is required to avoid missing subtle differences such as viscosity or color. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Physical stamina is required due to frequent handling of raw materials and high-temperature work. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Work procedures are routine, and little creativity is required. |
Related Qualifications
- Boiler technician
Aliases
- Animal-based Adhesive Manufacturing Worker
- Nikawa Manufacturing Worker
Related Jobs
- Chemical Product Quality Management
- Paint Manufacturing Worker
- Synthetic Resin Manufacturing Worker