Tire Builder

Retread Technician, Tire Builder, Tire Retreader, Tire Technician
Job Description

A Tire Builder is a skilled worker who specializes in constructing and assembling various types of tires for vehicles. This role involves using machinery and hand tools to build tires according to specific design and quality standards.

Typical Preparation

Education: High school diploma or equivalent

Years in related career: None

On-the-job training: Moderate-term

Outlook

Projected Growth: -4.3% (negative growth)

Annual job openings: 2,500

Direct AI exposure: 0% of tasks

Potential AI exposure: 0% of tasks

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, average income (in USD) in 2025 was $57K per year.
Bottom 10%Bottom 25%Median (average)Top 25%Top 10%
$40K
per year
$48K
per year
$57K
per year
$64K
per year
$75K
per year
Compared to other careers: Median is $6.41K above the national average.

What does a Tire Builder do?

Duties

  • Operates machines to build and assemble tires.
  • Inspects and repairs tire components.
  • Ensures tires meet quality and design specifications.
  • Maintains and cleans machinery and work areas.
  • Adheres to safety guidelines and protocols.

Work environment

Tire Builders typically work in manufacturing plants or factories specifically designed for tire production. The environment is industrial and can be noisy, with a significant amount of time spent standing or moving around the production floor. Safety protocols are crucial due to the machinery and materials used.

Typical Schedule

Areas of specialization

  • Passenger Vehicle Tire Building
  • Commercial and Heavy Machinery Tire Building
  • Tire Design and Quality Testing
  • Machinery Maintenance and Operation

Description

Tire Builders are vital in the automotive industry, ensuring that tires are constructed accurately and safely. They operate specialized machinery that cuts, shapes, and assembles rubber materials and other components to form tires. This role requires precision and attention to detail, as tire builders must ensure that each tire meets specific design and quality criteria. They need to be familiar with different tire types and construction techniques, adapting their skills to various models and specifications.

In addition to machine operation, tire builders are responsible for the regular maintenance of their equipment. They need to identify and troubleshoot any mechanical issues that arise to prevent production delays. They also play a key role in quality control, inspecting completed tires for any defects and ensuring that they are safe for use.

This occupation requires physical stamina, as tire builders spend a lot of time on their feet, handling materials, and operating machinery. Good manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination are essential. The ability to work efficiently as part of a team is also important, as tire builders often collaborate with other production staff and supervisors.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

You might make a good Tire Builder if you are...

Pros:

  • Stable employment in an essential manufacturing sector.
  • Opportunities to develop specialized technical skills.
  • Satisfaction from creating a tangible and vital product.

Cons:

  • Physically demanding work with potential strain.
  • Exposure to noise and industrial materials.
  • Repetitive nature of the tasks involved.

How to become a Tire Builder

Typical education

Generally, a high school diploma or equivalent is required for this role. On-the-job training is common, and some employers may offer or require additional vocational training or certification.

High school preparation

Courses:

  • Shop classes or vocational technical education for hands-on skills.
  • Basic math courses for measurements and calculations.
  • Physical education to build stamina for factory work.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

  • Participate in team sports for physical fitness.
  • Join clubs or activities related to automotive interests or mechanical skills.

Preparation after high school

  • Enroll in vocational training programs in manufacturing or industrial technology.
  • Seek apprenticeships or entry-level positions in manufacturing to gain practical experience.
  • Consider certification programs specific to tire manufacturing or industrial machinery.

More resources

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