Textile Bleaching and Dyeing Machine Operators and Tenders
Operate or tend machines to bleach, shrink, wash, dye, or finish textiles or synthetic or glass fibers.
SOC: 51-6061.00
Common Job Titles
Dye Machine Operator
Dye Operator
Dyer
Machine Operator (Machine Op)
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
Hands-onOperate textile bleaching, dyeing, and finishing machines in production environments following established processing schedules and quality standards.
Proficient
KnowledgeAssess equipment performance and material quality during processing cycles through continuous monitoring of machine operations and visual inspection of textile materials.
Proficient
Hands-onManipulate machine controls and settings for dyeing and bleaching processes, adjusting temperature, chemical concentration, and cycle times to achieve desired textile specifications.
Proficient
KnowledgeEvaluate finished textile products for color consistency, shrinkage, and defects using visual inspection and measurement tools to ensure compliance with specifications.
Proficient
Hands-onHandle textile materials and chemical dyes while loading and unloading equipment following safety protocols.
Developing
KnowledgeAnalyze production data and quality control results to identify process deviations and determine corrective actions.
Developing
Hands-onPerform routine maintenance and calibration on dyeing and bleaching equipment following manufacturer guidelines and maintenance schedules to minimize downtime.
Developing
KnowledgeApply knowledge of production and processing methods when selecting appropriate dyeing techniques, chemical formulas, and machine settings for different textile types.
Developing
KnowledgeInterpret work orders, technical specifications, and color standards to set up machines and prepare appropriate dye formulations.
Developing
MindsetEngage in communication with supervisors and team members to coordinate production schedules, report equipment issues, and ensure workflow continuity.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Textile Bleaching and Dyeing Machine Operators and Tenders (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
5,820
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $28,990. 25th percentile: U.S. $32,350. 50th percentile: U.S. $37,320. 75th percentile: U.S. $43,230. 90th percentile: U.S. $47,660. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$28,990
10% of workers earn the following or more
$47,660
Workers on average earn
$39,000
+ 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 Processing3.4/5
Public Safety and Security2.6/5
Education and Training2.5/5
Administration and Management2.5/5
Customer and Personal Service2.5/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
