Shoe Upper Sewing Machine Operator
せいこうみしんぬいこう
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
A manufacturing job that sews the upper part (vamp) of shoes using industrial sewing machines and handles the pre-assembly process for products.
Description
Shoe upper sewing machine operators use industrial sewing machines to accurately sew leather or synthetic fiber materials used in the upper (vamp) part of shoes. They confirm the characteristics of the materials and the quality of stitches while adjusting sewing machine settings and thread tension to achieve sewing according to specifications. They often operate as one process in a mass production line, requiring attention and manual dexterity to maintain the specified production speed and quality. After sewing, they perform inspections, sort defective products, and carry out simple machine maintenance.
Future Outlook
In Japan, the number of workers in the shoe manufacturing industry is on a declining trend due to overseas shifts and automation, but demand remains strong for handcrafting techniques aimed at high-value-added products and made-to-order production, requiring the retention of specialized skills and skill improvement.
Personality Traits
Dexterous with hands and good at detailed work / Meticulous / Patient
Work Style
Factory work / Shift work / Standing work / Team work / Uniform/work clothes required
Career Path
Line worker → Team leader → Process manager → Quality manager → Production manager → Manufacturing site manager
Required Skills
Material handling / Quality control / Sewing machine operation (industrial) / Simple sewing machine maintenance
Recommended Skills
Basic machine maintenance / Cutting knowledge / Pattern understanding / Safety and health management
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because misalignment or fraying of stitches leads to product defects. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Physical strength is required to endure long hours of standing work and repetitive tasks. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Mainly work based on instructed specifications, with little opportunity to demonstrate original ideas. |
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Quantity control mainly involves simple counting per process, and advanced mathematical skills are not required. |
Related Qualifications
- Dressmaking technician
- Leather product manufacturing technician
Aliases
- Upper sewing worker
Related Jobs
- Cutting worker
- Leather processing worker
- Sewing worker
- Shoe manufacturing worker