Cutters and Trimmers, Hand
Use hand tools or hand-held power tools to cut and trim a variety of manufactured items, such as carpet, fabric, stone, glass, or rubber.
SOC: 51-9031.00
Common Job Titles
Cloth CutterLeather CutterOffline CutterTrimmer
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- Hands-onCoordinate monitoring processes and controlling hand-held machinery during continuous cutting operations to maintain production efficiency and safety.Proficient
- Hands-onPerform precision cutting and trimming of manufactured materials including carpet, fabric, stone, glass, and rubber using hand tools and hand-held power tools in manufacturing or workshop settings.Developing
- Hands-onHandle materials and workpieces during cutting operations while performing general physical activities to position and manipulate items weighing up to standard production loads.Developing
- KnowledgeEstimate measurements and dimensions of materials for cutting using measurement tools such as rules, straightedges, and layout squares to meet production specifications.Developing
- Hands-onOperate specialized cutting equipment including carpet knives, glass cutting tools, rotary cutters, and power saws following safety protocols and production standards under general supervision.Developing
- KnowledgeEvaluate quality of cut materials and finished products by inspecting edges, dimensions, and overall appearance to ensure compliance with quality standards.Developing
- KnowledgeApply production and processing knowledge to select appropriate cutting methods based on material type, thickness, and required finish specifications.Developing
- MindsetEngage with supervisors, peers, and team members to coordinate work activities, communicate production needs, and establish effective working relationships.Developing
- KnowledgeOrganize work priorities and production tasks to meet deadlines while managing time effectively in manufacturing environments.Developing
- Hands-onDetect defects, irregularities, or safety hazards in materials and equipment through visual inspection and tactile assessment during cutting operations.Emerging
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Cutters and Trimmers, Hand (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
7,070
Wage Distribution by Percentile
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $29,910 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $57,820 |
| Workers on average earn | $41,960 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Production and Processing3.3/5
- Mathematics2.4/5
- English Language2.2/5
- Public Safety and Security2.1/5
- Computers and Electronics1.9/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
Microsoft ExcelMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft Word
Tools & Equipment
Awl setsBolt cuttersCarpet cuttersCarpet knivesCarpet trimmersCordless cuttersCordless tile sawsCut-off saws