Shoe and Leather Workers and Repairers
O*NET 51-6041.00 · SOC 51-6041
Shoe and Leather Workers and Repairer is a risky career choice. Median pay is $38k a year with -6.5% projected growth through 2035 (declining) and about 1,000 openings a year. AI exposure: Elevated.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Repair worn shoe soles by stitching or gluing
- →Replace damaged heels on boots and shoes
- →Stretch tight shoes using mechanical shoe stretchers
- →Cut leather pieces to patch damaged shoe uppers
- →Dye and polish leather shoes to restore appearance
Education & How to Get In
Shoe and Leather Workers and Repairer roles typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, with most training happening on the job. This makes it one of the more accessible career paths — you can often start working while earning certifications or completing short-term training programs.
Get Started Learning
Ready to start building skills for a career as a Shoe and Leather Workers and Repairer? These platforms offer courses you can start today — many with free trials or financial aid.
Links open in a new tab. Some may include affiliate partnerships.
Work Environment
Hands-on — labs, workshops, or field sites
Mixed — alternates between solo focused work and collaboration
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Shoe and Leather Workers and Repairer involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Shoe and Leather Workers and Repairer?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering — personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Shoe and Leather Workers and Repairer Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
Similar Careers
Explore More Careers
Job Outlook
Employment of Shoe and Leather Workers and Repairers is projected to decline 6.5% from 2025 to 2035, declining for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·47% physical tasks — limited by robotics progress
- ·Declining employment suggests structural disruption
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Shoe and Leather Workers and Repairer make?
The median Shoe and Leather Workers and Repairer earns $38k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Shoe and Leather Workers and Repairer jobs?
Our model puts Shoe and Leather Workers and Repairer at 55 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is elevated disruption risk. The main drivers: 47% physical tasks — limited by robotics progress; declining employment suggests structural disruption.
Is Shoe and Leather Workers and Repairer a growing field?
Employment is projected to shrink 6.5% between 2025 and 2035, which is declining. That works out to roughly 1,000 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Shoe and Leather Workers and Repairer?
Most Shoe and Leather Workers and Repairer roles need a high school diploma or equivalent, with training happening on the job. A degree is not the usual route in.
How long does it take to become a Shoe and Leather Workers and Repairer?
Typically under a year, usually a high school diploma plus short training. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 2 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Shoe and Leather Workers and Repairer career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
Take the assessment →Free to take · Matches $9 · No account required · 7 minutes