Junior Workshop Repairer in Melbourne

Birkenstock Australia, trading as Birkenstock Boutique, retails a range of orthopaedically designed Birkenstock shoes and sandals, as well as Birkenstock Orthopaedic supplies. The company was established in Melbourne in 1993 and currently operates 2 stores in Melbourne, Victoria.

About the Role

We are seeking a skilled Junior Workshop Repairer to join our team on a permanent full-time basis. This role supports the completion of repairs to BIRKENSTOCK footwear while undertaking on-the-job training. This role develops the knowledge, practical skills and safe work practices required to carry out repairs to the company's quality standards. Duties are performed with guidance and supervision appropriate to the task, with responsibility and independence increasing as skills develop.

Key Responsibilities

• Undertake on-the-job training in footwear repair techniques and workshop processes.
• Assist with and progressively learn shoe repairs, including grinding, gluing, sewing, soling, and machine and hand stitching.
• Carry out repair tasks when trained and authorised to do so, following instructions and using appropriate supervision.
• Learn to identify suitable repair options for footwear and seek guidance when a repair is unclear, unusual or outside current competency.
• Follow safe work practices when using tools, knives, adhesives and machinery; ask for instruction before using unfamiliar equipment.
• Develop an understanding of repair quality standards and check work carefully, seeking feedback and correcting work as directed.
• Complete assigned repairs and workshop tasks within agreed timeframes.
• Maintain the order and tracking of repairs and assist with follow-up or obtaining customer approval before work commences.
• Assist with monitoring stock levels, identifying items that need replenishing and putting stock away as required.
• Complete workshop duties in line with business requirements and follow company policies and procedures.
• Work collaboratively and maintain a positive, respectful and inclusive attitude within the team.
• Actively seek feedback, ask questions when unsure and apply learning to improve repair skills and work practices.
• Help maintain an organised, safe and clean work environment.
• Keep tools and machinery clean and in good order, and report damage, faults or maintenance needs to the appropriate person.
• Assist with maintaining stock levels and ensuring stock is put away regularly.
• Keep the workshop presentable throughout the day and actively participate in workshop cleaning.
• Follow instructions for the safe storage and handling of chemicals, tools, materials and workshop supplies.
• Participate in training and demonstrations provided by the business.
• Progress from basic tasks to more complex repairs as competence, confidence and consistency are demonstrated.
• Follow demonstrated repair methods and ask for clarification before proceeding if instructions or repair requirements are unclear.
• Accept constructive feedback and work towards agreed training goals and quality expectations.

About You

• TAFE Certificate III in Footwear Repair or a related trade qualification, or equivalent industry experience is not required, but desirable (on-the-job training is provided).
• A demonstrated aptitude for practical, hands-on work.
• A genuine interest in learning footwear repair techniques and developing new skills.
• Takes pride in work and contributes to a clean, safe and orderly work environment.
• Demonstrates literacy, numeracy, accuracy, attention to detail and organisation appropriate to the role.
• Able to work cooperatively in a small team and follow instructions.
• Reliable, punctual and trustworthy, and able to maintain confidentiality.
• Uses initiative within the limits of their training and asks for assistance when required.
• Willing to complete repetitive tasks and able to stand for extended periods while working.
• Open to communication, instruction and constructive feedback.
• Maintains a positive and motivated demeanour at work.
• Committed to following workplace safety procedures and company policies.
• Previous experience in a workshop, footwear, retail, manufacturing or hands-on repair environment.
• Basic familiarity with hand tools or machinery.
• Moderate computer skills and IT understanding.

What We Offer

• Work with a globally iconic lifestyle brand.
• Collaborative and creative team environment.
• Opportunity to work across diverse creative projects and campaigns.
• Supportive culture with room for growth and development.