Rubber Trimmer in New York Career Overview

As a Rubber Trimmer, you play a key role in the manufacturing process of rubber products, ensuring they meet quality standards and the specifications required for their applications. Your work involves the careful trimming and finishing of rubber materials, which can include tires, gaskets, seals, and various industrial components.

Here are some essential aspects of your role:

  • Precision Work: You trim excess rubber from molded or extruded products, using cutting tools and machinery. Precision is vital, as the quality of the finished product can significantly affect its performance.

  • Quality Control: You are responsible for inspecting rubber products for defects. This involves noting any irregularities and ensuring that products adhere to established guidelines.

  • Technical Knowledge: Understanding the properties of different rubber types is important. You should be familiar with various trimming techniques and the equipment used in the process.

  • Production Efficiency: You contribute to overall production efficiency by minimizing waste and ensuring timely completion of tasks. Your ability to work quickly without sacrificing quality is highly valued.

  • Collaboration: You often work closely with other team members in the manufacturing facility. Communication and teamwork are essential as you coordinate your work to meet production quotas and deadlines.

Your work as a Rubber Trimmer is essential in maintaining the integrity and reliability of rubber products, which are used across several industries including automotive, aerospace, and consumer goods.

Rubber Trimmer Salary in New York

Annual Median: $44,140
Hourly Median: $21.22

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Required Education To Become a Rubber Trimmer in New York

To become a Rubber Trimmer, you will typically need to complete specific educational programs and training that will equip you with the necessary technical knowledge and hands-on skills. Here are the relevant college degree programs that can help you advance in this career:

  • Industrial Mechanics and Maintenance Technology: This program focuses on the principles of mechanical systems, maintenance practices, and troubleshooting techniques essential for machinery that a Rubber Trimmer may encounter.

  • Industrial Production Technologies: Through this program, you will learn about production processes, quality control, and operational efficiency, all of which are important in a manufacturing context where rubber trimming takes place.

  • Mechanic and Repair Technology: This degree offers a foundation in repairing and maintaining various types of machinery, which is crucial for understanding the equipment you will use as a Rubber Trimmer.

  • Precision Metal Working: Enrolling in this program will provide insights into the techniques used in shaping and finishing metal parts, which is relevant to the tools and processes you will handle in rubber trimming operations.

  • Precision Production: This course covers advanced manufacturing principles and techniques, emphasizing precision, which can enhance your understanding of the production environment related to rubber trimming.

Completing any of these programs will prepare you for the technical aspects of a Rubber Trimmer's responsibilities, ensuring you are well-equipped for your role in the industry.

Best Schools to become a Rubber Trimmer in New York 2024

Gadsden State Community College

Gadsden, AL

In-State Tuition:$4,000
Out-of-State Tuition:$8,000
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:25%
Total Enrollment:4,352

Georgia Northwestern Technical College

Rome, GA

In-State Tuition:$2,400
Out-of-State Tuition:$4,800
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:49%
Total Enrollment:6,141

Elizabethtown Community and Technical College

Elizabethtown, KY

In-State Tuition:$4,368
Out-of-State Tuition:$15,288
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:42%
Total Enrollment:5,648

Bluegrass Community and Technical College

Lexington, KY

In-State Tuition:$4,368
Out-of-State Tuition:$15,288
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:35%
Total Enrollment:10,318

SOWELA Technical Community College

Lake Charles, LA

In-State Tuition:$3,335
Out-of-State Tuition:$3,335
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:40%
Total Enrollment:3,268

Owensboro Community and Technical College

Owensboro, KY

In-State Tuition:$4,368
Out-of-State Tuition:$15,288
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:47%
Total Enrollment:4,621
Rubber Trimmer Job Description:
  • Use hand tools or hand-held power tools to cut and trim a variety of manufactured items, such as carpet, fabric, stone, glass, or rubber.

Rubber Trimmer Required Skills and Competencies in New York

  • Manual Dexterity: You need strong hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills to operate cutting tools and handle materials accurately.

  • Attention to Detail: You must be able to focus on intricate specifications to ensure precise cuts and quality output.

  • Knowledge of Tools: Familiarity with various cutting tools and equipment is essential, including knives, shears, and band saws.

  • Physical Stamina: The job often requires standing for extended periods and performing repetitive tasks, so being physically fit is important.

  • Problem-Solving Skills: You should be able to identify issues during the trimming process and find effective solutions quickly.

  • Time Management: You need to manage your time effectively to meet production deadlines without sacrificing quality.

  • Safety Awareness: Understanding and adhering to safety protocols is crucial in a workshop setting to prevent accidents.

  • Basic Math Skills: You often need to measure and calculate dimensions, making basic arithmetic skills valuable.

  • Collaboration: Being able to work well with colleagues and other team members is important for efficient production processes.

  • Adaptability: You should be open to working with various types of rubber materials and adjusting techniques as needed based on project requirements.

Job Duties for Rubber Trimmers

  • Cut, shape, and trim materials, such as textiles, food, glass, stone, and metal, using knives, scissors, and other hand tools, portable power tools, or bench-mounted tools.

  • Mark or discard items with defects such as spots, stains, scars, snags, chips, scratches, or unacceptable shapes or finishes.

  • Trim excess material or cut threads off finished products, such as cutting loose ends of plastic off a manufactured toy for a smoother finish.

Technologies and Skills Used by Rubber Trimmers

Electronic mail software

  • Microsoft Outlook

Spreadsheet software

  • Microsoft Excel

Word processing software

  • Microsoft Word

Basic Skills

  • Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions

Problem Solving

  • Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Job Market and Opportunities for Rubber Trimmer in New York

The job market for Rubber Trimmers in New York is influenced by the state's diverse manufacturing industry and the demand for high-quality rubber products. Here are some key points regarding the current landscape:

  • Demand Trends: There is a steady demand for rubber trimmers as manufacturers continuously seek skilled workers to maintain production quality. Industries such as automotive, aerospace, and consumer goods heavily rely on precision rubber trimming for their products.

  • Growth Potential: The growth trajectory for Rubber Trimmers appears stable due to ongoing technological advancements in manufacturing processes. Automation and precision trimming techniques are being integrated, which may increase the demand for specialized trimmers who can manage both manual and machine-operated trimming tasks.

  • Geographical Hotspots:

    • New York City: As a major hub for manufacturing, many rubber products companies are located here, leading to several job opportunities.
    • Buffalo and Rochester: These cities have a strong presence of manufacturing firms, particularly in the automotive and industrial sectors, increasing the need for rubber trimming specialists.
    • Long Island: The growth of specialized manufacturing firms on Long Island provides additional openings for rubber trimmers, with several companies focusing on custom rubber products.
  • Industry Collaborations: Local partnerships between educational institutions and manufacturing companies are fostering training programs specifically designed for rubber trimming, enhancing workforce development and potentially increasing job opportunities in the sector.

  • Economic Factors: The overall health of the manufacturing sector in New York, closely linked to economic conditions, will influence the availability of positions for Rubber Trimmers. A growing economy typically results in more production needs, thereby increasing demand for skilled labor in rubber trimming.

With these trends and developments, the job market for Rubber Trimmers in New York presents a range of opportunities to consider for future employment in this specialized field.

Top Related Careers to Rubber Trimmer 2024

Additional Resources To Help You Become a Rubber Trimmer in New York

  • U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)

    • Get information on job outlook, wage data, and additional statistics related to rubber trimmers and other related occupations.
    • BLS - Rubber Trimmers
  • National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE)

    • Explore certification programs that can enhance your skills and credentials as a rubber trimmer within the automotive industry.
    • ASE Certification
  • American Society for Quality (ASQ)

    • A resource for quality management training that can benefit your career by improving manufacturing processes including those involving rubber trimming.
    • ASQ Quality Resources
  • Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

    • Review safety guidelines and regulations in the manufacturing sector that are essential for ensuring a safe work environment.
    • OSHA - Manufacturing
  • Trade Schools and Community Colleges in New York

  • Rubber Manufacturers Association (RMA)

    • Access industry news, standards, and networking opportunities related to the rubber industry.
    • RMA
  • Trade Publications

    • Subscribing to publications like "Rubber & Plastics News" can keep you informed about trends, new technologies, and best practices in rubber trimming.
    • Rubber & Plastics News
  • LinkedIn Groups

    • Join professional groups focused on rubber processing and manufacturing to connect with peers and access shared resources.
    • Search for groups like "Rubber Manufacturing Professionals."
  • Online Forums and Communities

    • Participate in forums such as Reddit or specialized industry boards where you can ask questions and share knowledge with experienced professionals.
    • Reddit - r/Manufacturing
  • New York State Department of Labor

    • Investigate apprenticeships, licensing opportunities, and workforce development programs available for rubber trimmers in New York.
    • NYSDOL

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Rubber Trimmer in New York

  • What is a Rubber Trimmer?
    A Rubber Trimmer is a skilled worker who specializes in trimming and finishing rubber products, ensuring they meet specific design and quality standards before being sent to manufacturing or distribution.

  • What qualifications or education do I need to become a Rubber Trimmer?
    Typically, a high school diploma or equivalent is required. On-the-job training is common, and experience in manufacturing or a related field can be beneficial.

  • What are the primary duties of a Rubber Trimmer?
    Your main responsibilities include cutting rubber materials to size, removing excess material, inspecting finished products for defects, and ensuring compliance with quality control standards.

  • Is physical fitness important in this role?
    Yes, the job can be physically demanding. You may need to stand for long periods, lift heavy materials, and perform repetitive motions, so good physical fitness can help you succeed.

  • What tools do Rubber Trimmers use?
    Common tools include knives, scissors, utility blades, and trimming machines. Familiarity with these tools is essential for effectively performing your job.

  • Is there room for advancement in this career?
    Yes, with experience, you can advance to supervisory roles, quality control positions, or specialized roles in rubber product development or manufacturing.

  • What is the work environment like for Rubber Trimmers?
    Rubber Trimmers typically work in manufacturing facilities that may be noisy and require adherence to safety protocols. Proper protective equipment is generally provided and must be worn.

  • How much can I expect to earn as a Rubber Trimmer in New York?
    Salary can vary based on experience and location, but the average wage for Rubber Trimmers in New York is competitive within the manufacturing sector. Checking current labor statistics or job postings can provide more specific figures.

  • What challenges might I face as a Rubber Trimmer?
    You may encounter challenges such as tight deadlines, the need for precision to avoid waste, and maintaining physical stamina throughout your shifts.

  • Are there any certification programs available?
    While certification is not typically required, you might find programs that enhance your skills in specific techniques or safety practices, which can be advantageous for career growth.

  • How does one find job opportunities as a Rubber Trimmer?
    Job postings can be found on various employment websites, through local job fairs, or by networking within the manufacturing community. Additionally, checking with staffing agencies that specialize in industrial roles can be helpful.

  • Do Rubber Trimmers work independently or as part of a team?
    You will likely work as part of a team in a manufacturing environment, collaborating with other workers, such as machine operators and quality inspectors, to ensure efficient production.