Horse Harness Makers manufacture, rebuild, and repair a wide variety of harnesses, saddles, saddle trees, and other associated tack for equestrian disciplines.
Job Related Skills, Interests and Values
- Cutting and stitching heavy leather by hand using needle and thread, or with a stitching machine
- Assembling and constructing materials
- Reading and interpreting job specifications, sketches, and technical drawings
- Acquiring a good working knowledge of horse anatomy
- Diagnosing, fixing, or replacing broken parts
- Trimming, slicking, rubbing, creasing, punching holes, and bevelling edges
- Dyeing or burnishing edges
- Cutting and stamping decorative designs into the surface of leather
- Using a brush or sponge to apply paint and liquid dressing to produce a glossy finish
- Applying basic welding procedures
- Communicating effectively with customers, co-workers, and supervisors
- Working alone or as a member of a team to get the job done
What Preparation and Training Do You Need?
- Secondary school diploma with math, science, and English credits
- Completion of 6,000-8,000 hour apprenticeship, including on-the-job and in-school training; in-school portion is two 10-week sessions
What's Your Future as a Horse Harness Maker (219D)?
- 40-hour week, generally in industrial or manufacturing plant; potential for overtime during busy periods
- Some may be self-employed and run successful equestrian businesses
- Employers include harness-making companies, saddle companies, race tracks and large barns, and boarding facilities
Wage Rate
Apprentice wage increases with skill and experience. Fully qualified workers earn an average of $17.80-$24.85 per hour.
Self-Rating
Horse Harness Maker (219D)
| Ask Yourself: | Yes | No |
|---|---|---|
| Do you have good manual dexterity, an eye for detail, and enjoy working with your hands in creative ways? | ||
| Are you able to lift 50lbs comfortably? | ||
| Are you able to follow Health & Safety guidelines? | ||
| Do you enjoy doing a variety of different tasks? | ||
| Do you enjoy working with your hands and a variety of hand tools? | ||
| Are you reliable, a self-starter and able to work with minimal supervision? | ||
| Are you able to read instructions and measurements accurately? |
If you checked YES to the majority of these questions, a career as Horse Harness Maker (219D) may be for you!
You might want to look at these similar trades as well;
- Horse Groomer
- Native Clothing and Crafts Artisan
- Welder
- Saddler
Saddlers design, manufacture, rebuild, and repair a wide variety of saddles, saddle trees, harnesses, riding boots, and associated tack for all equestrian disciplines.
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Horse Groomers are responsible for the maintenance, health, nutrition, feeding, and grooming of horses.