Stitch Fitting Operator

Description Position summary

Run the preparation work that makes the upper and the insole ready to last: cementing, rib plying and roughing. Nothing downstream works if the bond does not hold.

• Cement: apply adhesive to specification, control open time, keep coverage uniform all the way to the edge.
• Ply rib: apply and seat the rib to the insole. Verify adhesion and alignment before you release it.
• Rough: prepare the surface so the bond takes, holding depth and margin without exposing the grain.
• Verify insole tack placement in the welt where the style calls for it.
• Inspect your own work. A bad bond does not fail here, it fails at Bottoming or in the customer’s hands.
• Work in ventilated cement areas with required protective equipment at all times.

• No prior experience required at grade P1. We train you.
• Willingness to work with adhesives and solvent-based chemistry, and to wear the protective equipment that goes with them.
• Consistency over speed. Adhesion defects are invisible until the boot comes apart.

This position works on the production floor. Standing for the full shift on a concrete floor. Occasional lifting up to 40 pounds; frequent lifting up to 20 pounds. Repetitive use of hands, wrists and arms. Exposure to leather dust, adhesive vapor and machine noise. Hearing protection, eye protection and steel-toe footwear are required. Reasonable accommodation is available to qualified individuals with disabilities.

This position involves routine exposure to adhesives, solvents and finishing chemicals. Respirator fit-testing and chemical-handling training are provided and required.

Units prepared per shift. Bond failures traced back to this department.