Assistant Craftsperson, Repairs

kate spade new york•North Bergen, NJ

5d•$25 - $27•Onsite

About The Position

The Assistant Craftsperson, Repairs (Preparation Specialization) supports the execution of high-quality leather preparation across Repair products. This role builds technical skill in preparation processes—including pattern interpretation, material selection, operation of preparation machinery and hand tools, skiving, adhesive application, filler and reinforcement selection, and component readiness—while developing greater independence and consistency in daily work. This role executes within a production environment with an emphasis on quality, learning, and increasingly independent work.

Requirements

1+ years of experience in leather goods production, preparation, repair, or related craftsmanship preferred
Foundational proficiency in leather preparation, including cutting, skiving, and use of machinery and hand tools
Developing ability to interpret patterns and understand construction sequencing and downstream impact
Basic knowledge of adhesives, fillers, and reinforcements, with willingness to strengthen selection and application skills
Developing understanding of leather types, material behavior, and quality assessment
Ability to deliver careful, quality-focused work while building pace, independence, problem-solving, and collaboration skills
Interest in expanding into adjacent craft skills (prep, paint, finishing) over time

Responsibilities

Execute preparation processes including cutting, skiving, splitting, thinning, gluing, and edge preparation with guidance as needed
Begin to interpret patterns, design cards, and repair intent to support the correct preparation approach
Operate preparation machinery and hand tools safely and accurately, building consistency through repetition and feedback
Prepare components to the correct dimensions, thickness, and structure with a strong focus on quality and accuracy
Read patterns and product construction details with support to prepare components accurately
Develop understanding of how preparation decisions impact final construction and assembly
Support alignment between prepared components, intended design, and repair outcome
Identify basic leather qualities, grain, temper, and condition to support the appropriate preparation approach
Apply adhesives (glue, tape, cement) using established best practices by hand or airbrush
Learn to select appropriate fillers and reinforcements based on desired structure, durability, and finish
Adjust techniques with guidance based on material limitations and intended product use
Support the quality and accuracy of prepared materials prior to handoff
Maintain attention to detail in cut, thickness, symmetry, and bonding
Identify and communicate material defects or inconsistencies early to help prevent downstream issues
Uphold Coach standards for luxury craftsmanship through consistent, quality-focused execution
Execute assigned daily and weekly work with an emphasis on quality, consistency, and learning
Build pace over time while maintaining precision in a production environment
Contribute reliable output that supports downstream workflow and team priorities
Partner with stitching, edge paint, and finishing teams to support smooth handoff and workflow
Communicate questions or risks related to material prep, adhesion, or structure
Prepare components in a way that supports efficient downstream construction and quality outcomes