Wood-turner (excluding furniture and joinery manufacturing)
もっこうひきものこう（かぐ・たてぐせいぞうをのぞく）
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Wood-turners cut timber on a lathe to produce cylindrical or curved parts.
Description
Wood-turners use specialized lathe machines to shape the exterior of timber, producing cylindrical or intricately curved parts. The work begins with machine preparation (attaching tools and setting rotation speeds), followed by cutting and forming, finishing such as polishing and end-grain treatment, and inspection of the finished product's dimensions. They also perform daily maintenance, inspections, and tool sharpening. Depending on the material and product, they must consider moisture content and grain to prevent cracking or warping.
Future Outlook
While automation and CNC are advancing in the wood processing industry, there remains strong demand for traditional handcrafting techniques, making the succession of skilled artisans' techniques a challenge. The outlook calls for a combination of labor-saving equipment and skilled workers.
Personality Traits
Dexterous with hands and good at detailed work / High concentration / Meticulous / Patient
Work Style
Career Path
Apprentice Worker → Wood-turner → Leader (Chief Operator) → Production Management → Manufacturing Department Manager
Required Skills
Cutting Tool Selection and Replacement / Dimension Measurement / Lathe Operation / Wood Properties Knowledge
Recommended Skills
CNC Lathe Programming / Machine Maintenance / Polishing and Finishing Techniques / Timber Drying
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | High attention to detail is required to maintain processing accuracy. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Physical stamina is needed to endure long hours of standing work and vibrations. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Primarily processing according to specified specifications, with limited creativity. |
Aliases
- Turning Machinist
- Wood Lathe Worker
Related Jobs
- Furniture Maker
- Joinery Worker
- Woodworking Machine Operator