Rush Grass Processing Worker
いぐさかこうこう
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
This occupation involves drying, sorting, and dyeing rush grass used for tatami facing, etc., and processing it into a form that is easy to weave.
Description
Rush grass processing workers process rush grass (igusa), which is used as the surface material for tatami mats, from raw materials into a state suitable for products. They mainly dry the rush grass after harvest using sunlight or machines, perform sorting and grading according to quality, conduct dyeing and washing to prevent color unevenness, perform winding and bundling operations to make it thread-like and easy to weave, and hand it over to the tatami facing manufacturing process. The work involves a mix of manual labor and simple machine operations, with workload varying according to seasons and harvest conditions. Quality control and occupational health and safety are also required.
Future Outlook
The market is shrinking due to decreasing demand for tatami mats, but a certain level of demand is expected to be maintained through re-evaluation of traditional crafts and overseas demand. Pathways are anticipated through efficiency improvements and new product development.
Personality Traits
Work Style
Career Path
Apprentice/Assistant → Rush Grass Processing Technician → Site Leader → Factory Manager
Required Skills
Dyeing skills / Rush grass processing skills / Simple machine operation / Winding operations
Recommended Skills
Basic botany knowledge / Basic machine maintenance / Occupational health and safety management / Tatami manufacturing
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | To discern the quality of rush grass and color unevenness. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Due to long hours of standing work and carrying heavy rush grass. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Creativity is limited as work follows standardized procedures. |
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Because there is little weighing or numerical analysis. |
Aliases
- Igusa processing for tatami facing
- Igusa processing worker
- Rush grass processing worker
Related Jobs
- Tatami Craftsman
- Tatami Facing Manufacturing Worker
- Wood Product Manufacturing Worker