Textile Bleaching and Dyeing Machine Operators and Tenders
Textile bleaching and dyeing machine operators tend equipment that processes fibers and fabrics through chemical and thermal treatments. They monitor machines that bleach, dye, shrink, wash, or finish textiles and synthetic or glass fibers in manufacturing facilities. The work involves following procedures, adjusting settings, and ensuring quality output.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against textile bleaching and dyeing machine operators and tenders and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves monitoring machines during production runs, checking fabric color and texture against standards, and adjusting machine settings as needed. Operators load materials, add chemicals or dyes according to recipes, and remove finished products. They perform routine maintenance, clean equipment, record batch information, and troubleshoot equipment issues. Safety procedures for handling chemicals and hot equipment are part of daily responsibilities.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCI. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely do well in this work if you're detail-oriented and prefer structured, rule-based tasks. You're practical and comfortable working with machinery and following established procedures. You tend to work steadily and methodically, focusing on getting specific results rather than creative problem-solving.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold a high school diploma.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | $45,120 | $45,930 | $47,590 | 210 |
| Michigan | $39,490 | $44,720 | $46,700 | 60 |
| Mississippi | $28,860 | $43,640 | $46,980 | 80 |
| Georgia | $36,140 | $41,960 | $46,820 | 490 |
| South Carolina | $37,410 | $39,410 | $46,210 | 770 |
| New York | $38,640 | $39,030 | $47,780 | 120 |
| Pennsylvania | $34,900 | $38,420 | $45,680 | 250 |
| North Carolina | $34,420 | $37,610 | $44,080 | 980 |
| Tennessee | $31,090 | $37,410 | $39,110 | 270 |
| California | $36,660 | $36,670 | $44,790 | 880 |
| New Jersey | $32,820 | $36,570 | $45,280 | 140 |
| Alabama | $32,460 | $33,190 | $33,700 | 100 |
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against textile bleaching and dyeing machine operators and tenders and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 51-6061.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.