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.
Common Job Titles
- Dye Machine Operator
- Dye Operator
- Dyer
- Machine Operator (Machine Op)
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey 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
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Linux
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Word
- SAP software
Technology Skills
- Hewlett-Packard HP OpenVMS
Tools & Equipment
- Adjustable hand wrenches
- Beam dyeing machines
- Bleaching machines
- Continuous dyeing machines
- Digital calipers
- Dye becks
- Dye extractors
- Fine spinning machines