How to become a shoe machine operators and tender

Operate or tend a variety of machines to join, decorate, reinforce, or finish shoes and shoe parts.

Steps to get there

Most employers expect usually requires a high school diploma or ged, though some occupations may not..Some occupations may need little or no previous experience; others require several months to a year of experience. For example, landscaping and groundskeeping workers might require very little training or previous experience, while agricultural equipment operators can benefit from on-the job training.

What shoe machine operators and tenders do

• Study work orders or shoe part tags to obtain information about workloads, specifications, and the types of materials to be used.
• Test machinery to ensure proper functioning before beginning production.
• Operate or tend machines to join, decorate, reinforce, or finish shoes and shoe parts.
• Switch on machines, lower pressure feet or rollers to secure parts, and start machine stitching, using hand, foot, or knee controls.
• Draw thread through machine guide slots, needles, and presser feet in preparation for stitching, or load rolls of wire through machine axles.
• Perform routine equipment maintenance such as cleaning and lubricating machines or replacing broken needles.

Skills that matter most

• Reading Comprehension
• Active Listening
• Critical Thinking
• Monitoring
• Speaking
• Writing
• Active Learning
• Learning Strategies

Is shoe machine operators and tender a good career?

On the numbers, this job is close to the average across occupations. Median pay is 30% below the all-occupation median. Whether it fits you depends on the work itself, the schooling you are willing to do and where you want to live.

Where it pays most

• New York $48,420
• California $47,730
• Maine $39,850
• Wisconsin $37,970
• Minnesota $37,600

Shoe Machine Operators and Tenders salary by state and city

Sources: O*NET® 31.0 (CC BY 4.0, USDOL/ETA) and BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025.