Construct, decorate, or repair leather and leather-like products, such as luggage, shoes, and saddles. May use hand tools.
SOC: 51-6041.00
Common Job Titles
Boot Maker
Cobbler
Shoe Maker
Shoe Repairer
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
Hands-onPerform leather construction and repair procedures using hand tools and industrial equipment following production standards.
Developing
Hands-onOperate industrial sewing machines and sole stitchers to assemble and repair footwear and leather goods.
Developing
Hands-onExecute cutting, punching, and trimming techniques on leather materials using precision tools such as skivers, awls, and rotary cutters.
Developing
KnowledgeEvaluate leather product quality against established standards through visual and tactile inspection in a workshop setting.
Developing
KnowledgeAnalyze repair requirements for damaged shoes, luggage, and saddles to determine appropriate techniques and materials needed.
Developing
Hands-onManipulate shoe lasts and specialized shaping equipment to restore or construct footwear according to customer specifications.
Developing
KnowledgeApply knowledge of mechanical processes and leather properties when troubleshooting production issues and selecting repair methods.
Developing
MindsetEngage with customers to understand service requirements and preferences demonstrating service orientation and active listening.
Developing
Hands-onPerform finishing operations including polishing, buffing, and edge treatment using buffing wheels and polishing equipment to achieve professional standards.
Developing
KnowledgeEstimate material quantities, repair time, and project costs based on product assessment and production requirements.
Developing
Hands-onCalibrate shoe repair machinery and sewing equipment to maintain operational efficiency and product quality.
Developing
MindsetRespect traditional craftsmanship techniques and customer expectations while adapting to new production methods and materials.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Shoe and Leather Workers and Repairers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
7,640
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $25,170. 25th percentile: U.S. $29,400. 50th percentile: U.S. $35,950. 75th percentile: U.S. $41,400. 90th percentile: U.S. $48,090. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$25,170
10% of workers earn the following or more
$48,090
Workers on average earn
$36,280
+ 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 Processing3.2/5
Customer and Personal Service3.0/5
Mechanical2.9/5
Sales and Marketing2.6/5
Administration and Management2.4/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
