About Company
For over 90 years, R.M. Williams has been synonymous with iconic Australian craftsmanship, creating timeless handcrafted boots, clothing, and accessories. Born from the rugged Australian outback, our legacy is built on uncompromising quality, natural materials, and the spirit of the bush. At R.M. Williams, we believe in enduring style, exceptional comfort, and products built to last a lifetime. We are more than a brand; we are a custodian of Australian heritage, dedicated to fostering traditional skills and nurturing talent. Join our team in Adelaide, where every stitch, every cut, and every piece of leather tells a story of passion, precision, and pride in authentic Australian manufacturing. We are committed to ethical practices, sustainability, and providing a workplace where artisans can truly thrive, contributing to a legacy that spans generations.
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Job Description
We are seeking a highly skilled and passionate Master Shoe Cobbler & Artisan to join our prestigious team in Adelaide. This pivotal role involves the meticulous repair, restoration, and bespoke customisation of our iconic leather footwear, ensuring every piece upholds the R.M. Williams standard of excellence. As a master craftsman, you will be responsible for preserving the longevity and enhancing the beauty of our boots and shoes, utilising both traditional techniques and modern equipment. You will work with premium leathers, exotic skins, and various components, performing a range of tasks from sole and heel replacement to intricate upper repairs and conditioning. This position offers a unique opportunity to apply your expertise within a heritage brand renowned for its dedication to quality and craftsmanship, contributing directly to our reputation for timeless products. You will play a crucial role in maintaining customer satisfaction by delivering impeccable service and extending the life of beloved R.M. Williams products for generations to come. Your keen eye for detail, understanding of footwear construction, and unwavering commitment to precision will be paramount in upholding the standards our customers expect and cherish.
Key Responsibilities
- Execute high-quality repairs and restorations of R.M. Williams boots and shoes, including resoling, re-heeling, and upper repair.
- Perform intricate leatherwork, stitching, patching, and conditioning to restore footwear to its original glory.
- Conduct thorough inspections of footwear to diagnose issues and recommend appropriate repair solutions.
- Operate and maintain a variety of cobbling machinery and hand tools safely and effectively.
- Manage inventory of repair materials, including various leathers, soles, heels, and adhesives.
- Provide expert advice to customers regarding footwear care, repair options, and product longevity.
- Collaborate with the broader production team to share best practices and maintain consistent quality standards.
- Adhere to all safety protocols and workplace guidelines.
- Contribute to the continuous improvement of repair processes and techniques and share knowledge with apprentices or junior staff.
Required Skills
- Minimum 4 years of proven experience as a Shoe Cobbler, Shoe Maker, or Leather Artisan.
- Exceptional knowledge of footwear construction, materials (various leathers, rubber, cork), and repair techniques.
- Proficiency in operating cobbling machinery (e.g., stitching machines, sole presses, finishing machines) and hand tools.
- High level of manual dexterity and precision with meticulous attention to detail.
- Strong problem-solving skills and ability to diagnose complex footwear issues.
- Understanding of leather properties and conditioning methods.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a workshop environment.
- Commitment to producing work of the highest quality and maintaining brand standards.
Preferred Qualifications
- Formal qualification or apprenticeship in footwear manufacturing, leatherwork, or a related craft.
- Experience working with luxury footwear or heritage brands.
- Knowledge of bespoke shoemaking techniques and customisation.
- Familiarity with R.M. Williams product range and construction methods.
- Strong customer service skills and professional demeanour when interacting with clients.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and superannuation.
- Generous staff discounts on R.M. Williams products.
- Opportunity to work with an iconic Australian brand and premium materials.
- Supportive and collaborative team environment focused on craftsmanship.
- Ongoing professional development and training opportunities to hone your skills.
- Access to a modern, well-equipped workshop with both traditional and contemporary tools.
- Contribution to preserving traditional craftsmanship and passing on knowledge.
How to Apply
If you possess the passion for craftsmanship and the skills required for this esteemed role, we invite you to apply. Please click on the application link below to submit your resume and cover letter through our official R.M. Williams careers portal. Be sure to highlight your relevant experience and why you are the ideal candidate to uphold our tradition of excellence.
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