Overview
Textile fibre and yarn processing machine operators and workers operate machines to prepare textile fibres; spin, wind or twist yarn or thread; and bleach, dye or finish yarn, thread, cloth or textile products. They are employed by textile manufacturing companies. Hide and pelt processing machine operators and workers trim, scrape, clean, tan, buff and dye animal hides, pelts or skins to produce leather stock and finished furs. They are employed by leather tanning, fur dressing and leather and fur dyeing establishments.
This group performs some or all of the following duties:
Textile fibre, yarn, hide and pelt processing machine operators
Operate and feed machines that wash, mix, blend, pick, card, lap, comb or draw fibres, finish yarn, hides or pelts
Operate spinning, twisting, winding or reeling machines
Operate a variety of machines to clean, bleach, dye, coat or finish fabric, thread, yarn, hide, pelt and other textile products
Mix dyes or chemicals according to established formulas
Operate machinery to print designs onto textile products
Oversee work area, examine products for defects and ensure adherence to quality standards
Investigate machine stoppages and notify supervisor or mechanic in the event of equipment malfunction
May set up machines and assist with maintenance and minor repairs to machinery.
Textile, hide and pelt dyeing and finishing machine operators
Set up machines for proper processing
Operate machines to bleach, dye, coat and finish fabric, thread, other textile products, hide or pelt
Operate machines to print designs onto textile products or hide
Examine products for defects and ensure adherence to quality standards
Mix dyes and chemicals according to established formulas
Notify supervisors and mechanics of equipment malfunctions.
Employment prospects
Annual salary
$36,289
$43,798
$62,568
Job openings
Use this interactive map to explore job openings in different regions across B.C.
British Columbia
24expected job openings (5-year forecast)
Education and training
Employment requirements
Completion of secondary school may be required.
On-the-job training is provided for several weeks, depending on the complexity of the process and the number of machines operated
Additional information
Progression is possible within the group to operate more complex dye ranges and textile printing equipment.
Progression to supervisory positions is possible with experience for fibre and yarn preparation machine operators and hide and pelt processing machine operators and workers.
Progression to supervisory positions in textile processing usually requires completion of a college program in textiles, chemistry or a related subject.
Certification requirements
Post-secondary programs in B.C.
No post-secondary education required
No post-secondary education required. You can work in this career without post-secondary education. Some on the job training may be provided. With additional training or experience, you may be able to progress into higher level, supervisory or management positions.