Textile Bleaching and Dyeing Machine Operators and Tenders

O*NET 51-6061.00 · SOC 51-6061

Textile Bleaching and Dyeing Machine Operators and Tender is a risky career choice. Median pay is $38k a year with -12.5% projected growth through 2035 (declining) and about 600 openings a year. AI exposure: High.

Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27

Projected Growth
+-12.5%
2025–2035
Median Salary
$38k
BLS OEWS, May 2025
Annual Openings
1k
positions/year
Education Level
Zone 2
Some preparation needed (high school or short training)

What You'd Actually Do

  • Load fabric rolls into bleaching or dyeing machines
  • Mix dye solutions to achieve specified colors
  • Monitor dye bath temperature and chemical concentration levels
  • Remove dyed fabric and check color against target samples
  • Rinse fabric after dyeing to remove excess chemicals

Education & How to Get In

🎓
Job Zone 2
Some preparation needed (high school or short training)

Textile Bleaching and Dyeing Machine Operators and Tender 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.

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Work Environment

Primary Setting

Hands-on — labs, workshops, or field sites

Work Style

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 Textile Bleaching and Dyeing Machine Operators and Tender involves a mix of core responsibilities:

MorningLoad fabric rolls into bleaching or dyeing machines
MiddayMix dye solutions to achieve specified colors
AfternoonMonitor dye bath temperature and chemical concentration levels

Personality Fit (RIASEC)

Realistic (Doers)6.8
Conventional (Organizers)4.2
Investigative (Thinkers)2.1
Artistic (Creators)1.3
Social (Helpers)1.3
Enterprising (Persuaders)1.2

Who Thrives as Textile Bleaching and Dyeing Machine Operators and Tender?

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.

ISTPThe CraftspersonISTJThe InspectorESTPThe DynamoESTJThe Executive

Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →

See Open Textile Bleaching and Dyeing Machine Operators and Tender Roles

Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.

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Job Outlook

Employment of Textile Bleaching and Dyeing Machine Operators and Tenders is projected to decline 12.5% from 2025 to 2035, declining for all occupations.

Will AI Replace This Job?

65/100High disruption risk
  • ·41% routine cognitive tasks — high automation target
  • ·45% 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 Textile Bleaching and Dyeing Machine Operators and Tender make?

The median Textile Bleaching and Dyeing Machine Operators and Tender 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 Textile Bleaching and Dyeing Machine Operators and Tender jobs?

Our model puts Textile Bleaching and Dyeing Machine Operators and Tender at 65 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is high disruption risk. The main drivers: 41% routine cognitive tasks — high automation target; 45% physical tasks — limited by robotics progress.

Is Textile Bleaching and Dyeing Machine Operators and Tender a growing field?

Employment is projected to shrink 12.5% between 2025 and 2035, which is declining. That works out to roughly 600 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.

What degree do you need to be a Textile Bleaching and Dyeing Machine Operators and Tender?

Most Textile Bleaching and Dyeing Machine Operators and Tender 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 Textile Bleaching and Dyeing Machine Operators and Tender?

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 Textile Bleaching and Dyeing Machine Operators and Tender 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.

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