Summary

$37,040/year
Median Pay
7,220
Number of Jobs
4.2%
Job Growth(%)
303
Job Growth(#)

Cutters and Trimmers, Hand Job Description

What They Do

Cutters and Trimmers, Hand are essential players in various manufacturing and production industries. Their primary role involves cutting and trimming a diversified range of materials, such as textiles, glass, paper, and rubber, commonly by utilizing hand tools or handheld power tools. This job is crucial in ensuring that products meet the necessary size and shape specifications required for further processing or final assembly. Their work spans many industries, including clothing production, furniture manufacturing, and even specialized crafts.

Job Responsibilities

The job responsibilities of Cutters and Trimmers, Hand are multifaceted and require precision and attention to detail. They read and interpret patterns or templates, mark and cut materials following exact specifications, and finesse rough edges, ensuring high-quality output. Among their tasks are measuring materials using rulers or calipers, operating rotary cutters, shears, and other manual or motorized tools, and maintaining tools to ensure optimal performance. Moreover, they are responsible for inspecting finished products to ensure conformity to quality standards and carefully managing material waste.

Essential Skills

To excel in the role of a Cutter and Trimmer, Hand, several essential skills are paramount. Manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination are critical, as the job requires precise cuts and trims. Attention to detail ensures that components match the required specifications, and physical stamina allows for prolonged periods of standing and repetitive motion. Additionally, skills in basic mathematics are essential for measuring materials accurately. Familiarity with reading patterns and templates, along with a keen understanding of the properties of various materials, is also vital in performing the job efficiently and effectively.

Educational Pathways

The pathway to becoming a Cutter and Trimmer, Hand typically does not require extensive formal education, making it an accessible career choice for many. Most individuals entering this field possess a high school diploma or equivalent. However, vocational training or apprenticeships in related fields, such as textiles or manufacturing, can be highly beneficial. These programs often provide hands-on training in the use of various cutting tools and techniques, equipping future cutters and trimmers with foundational skills. On-the-job training is also a significant component, where new hires learn specific industry practices and processes under the guidance of experienced professionals.

Career Prospects

The career prospects for Cutters and Trimmers, Hand are influenced by several factors, including industry growth and technological advancements. While some industries might see a decline in demand for manual cutting and trimming due to automation, others, where custom or detailed manual work is imperative, continue to value these skills highly. Experienced Cutters and Trimmers may advance to supervisory roles, quality control positions, or specialize further to tackle more complex cutting and trimming tasks. Moreover, there are opportunities for those with entrepreneurial spirits to start their own businesses or workshops in niche markets.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a career as a Cutter and Trimmer, Hand is a promising endeavor for individuals who possess dexterity, meticulousness, and a keen eye for detail. While the entry requirements are relatively modest, possessing a high school diploma or equivalent, further vocational training or apprenticeships can pave the way for greater occupational success. Despite the early challenges posed by automation, specialized skills in cutting and trimming continue to be prized in various industries. This role not only supports the backbone of manufacturing and production but also provides avenues for personal skill development and career advancement.

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Compensation

Comparative Pay(annual)
Pay Range(annual)
Industry Pay(annual)
Compensation by State(annual)
State Median Salary Median Hourly Positions
MO 36,790 17.69 110
NE 42,900 20.62 50
NJ 34,600 16.64 410
AL 30,750 14.78 460
AZ 32,090 15.43 60
CA 35,770 17.20 720
CT 34,980 16.82 70
FL 35,690 17.16 160
GA 34,200 16.44 220
ID 33,440 16.08 60
IN 39,520 19.00 610
IA 36,400 17.50 50
KS 36,250 17.43 120
KY 41,640 20.02 80
MD 41,890 20.14 50
MA 39,800 19.14 110
MI 36,440 17.52 110
MN 39,220 18.86 80
MS 38,490 18.51 260
NY 44,140 21.22 300
NC 40,380 19.41 1,170
OH 37,070 17.82 370
OK 29,000 13.94 120
OR 53,340 25.65 50
PA 35,960 17.29 200
SD 36,650 17.62 70
TN 35,050 16.85 200
TX 28,620 13.76 270
UT 35,040 16.85 30
VT 44,280 21.29 40
VA 34,230 16.46 80
WA 42,600 20.48 60
WI 41,650 20.02 240

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