Leather Technologist

You'll need:

• knowledge of chemistry including the safe use and disposal of chemicals
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to use your initiative
• thinking and reasoning skills
• the ability to work well with others
• excellent verbal communication skills
• observation and recording skills
• physical skills like movement, coordination, dexterity and grace
• to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

On a day-to-day basis you'll prepare and finish leather by:

• removing hair and tissue
• cleaning, tanning and preserving the hide using salt, chemicals and vegetable extracts
• colouring and drying the leather
• applying finishes to hide flaws and add waterproof coatings

You might also spend time:

• supervising others
• researching, testing and sampling chemicals, dyes and products in the laboratory
• monitoring waste and by-products
• writing up research and operational reports
• checking the leather before it’s sent to product manufacturers

You could work in an office, in a laboratory, in a factory or in a workshop.

You may need to wear protective clothing.

Professional and industry bodies

You could join the Society of Leather Technologists and Chemists for technical advice, networking opportunities and professional development training.

Further information

You can find more details about working in the leather technology industry from Eurofins BLC Leather Technology Centre.