Operates machines to convert raw hides and skins into finished leather for use in clothing, footwear and upholstery.

• Prepares machines for operation by selecting and installing attachments and components for specialised functions; sets and operates controls used to regulate processing operations; starts machines and monitors operation to detect faults and ensure effectiveness of operation; loads drums with hides and skins, textiles, and dyeing and tanning solutions; examines finished products for defects and variations, reports faults in machines, and carries out quality control procedures.

• Works indoors in tannery factory, but may do some work in associated yard.
• Factories are likely to be dirty, wet and smelly environments with a variety of strong chemicals being used as part of the process.
• Wears a variety of personal protective equipment including ear muffs and eye protection and gloves.

• Heavy physical work demand
• Stands and walks frequently to operate machines and to move equipment or hides and carries out various tasks often on concrete floors.
• Sitting is not required.
• Occasionally stretches up and across.
• Squatting, crouching and/or kneeling may be required when inspecting skins, hides or machinery.
• Occasionally twists their body or neck when lifting and moving stacks of hides and when operating overhead lifting equipment to raise or lower bundles of hides into chemical and dyeing solutions.
• Bends frequently usually associated with heavy lifting.
• Constantly handles and carries wet hides that have been treated with chemicals and mixes chemicals which may cause damage to skin and/or hands if protective clothing is not utilised.
• Repetitive large hands and arm movements are frequent.
• Driving of forklifts and other plant equipment is likely to be required.
• Uses a range of hand and power tools and operates machines to carry out processing activities such as cutting tools, paddles and mechanical lifting devices as well as measuring devices for ph levels and temperature of solutions.
• Mental skills necessary include technical skills.

An NZQF Level 4 qualification, or at least three years of relevant experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 3).

In some instances relevant experience and/or on-the-job training may be required in addition to the formal qualification.

For entry-level positions on-the-job training may be sufficient.

• There are opportunities for flexibility of movement but they are limited.