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Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Workers

SOC 51-6011.00Job Zone 2 · Some Preparationv.26.05

Context coveredThis framework covers competencies performed in commercial laundry and dry-cleaning facilities, from hands-on machine operation and garment handling at the entry level through facility leadership, staff development, and operational strategy at the advanced level.

Sources:O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.SkillsCrosswalkSkillsCrosswalk — O*NET enrichment + adjacency index. Opens in new tab.
Emerging
Entry / Apprentice
  1. Garment sorting procedures — recognize and apply basic color and fabric categories under direct supervisor guidance in a commercial laundry facility.
  2. Washer and dry-cleaning machine loading — perform step-by-step loading tasks according to posted protocols on a production laundry floor.
  3. Machine start-up sequences — follow written instructions to start washers and dryers under close supervision in an entry-level shift role.
  4. Identifying codes and name markers — apply hand or machine markers to customer articles using established numbering systems with supervisor oversight.
  5. Valve and lever adjustments — identify and turn basic controls to regulate water and detergent volume under direct direction from a lead worker.
  6. Article removal from machines — retrieve cleaned items from washers and dry-cleaning machines as directed by a senior coworker or supervisor.
  7. Folding and hanging finished items — sort, fold, wrap, or hang dried articles following facility standards under guidance on a production line.
  8. Filter cleaning basics — clean machine filters using approved procedures after being shown the correct method by a trainer in the plant.
  9. Customer intake recognition — receive customer articles at the counter and record basic identifying information using facility intake forms under supervision.
  10. Oral instructions — listen to and accurately follow verbal directions from supervisors regarding machine settings and task priorities in a busy laundry environment.
Developing
Mid-level / Established
  1. Fabric and soil assessment — examine incoming articles independently to classify by color, fabric type, and dirt level before routing to the correct cleaning process.
  2. Machine operation sequencing — start and monitor washers, dry-cleaning machines, dryers, and extractors with minimal oversight during a standard production shift.
  3. Additive regulation — adjust soap, detergent, bleach, starch, and water volumes by reading machine gauges and following batch-specific formulas on the shop floor.
  4. Extractor and dryer coordination — operate or direct a small team in running extraction and drying cycles to meet daily throughput targets in a commercial laundry.
  5. Article tracking and marking — receive, code, and log customer garments using hand markers or POS intake software with consistent accuracy across a full shift.
  6. Finished-goods quality check — count, inspect, fold, and package dried articles to confirm they meet cleanliness and appearance standards before customer return.
  7. Routine equipment maintenance — clean filters and lubricate machine components on a scheduled basis to prevent downtime in a production laundry setting.
  8. Stain and specialty-item handling — identify common stains and select appropriate pre-treatment chemicals or cleaning techniques for delicate fabrics without supervisor prompting.
  9. Co-worker communication — relay machine status updates and task completions clearly and promptly to team members during a fast-paced laundry shift.
  10. Basic digital recordkeeping — enter production counts and customer order data into spreadsheet or database software to support shift reporting requirements.
Proficient
Senior / Expert IC
  1. Multi-machine workflow management — independently oversee simultaneous washer, dry-cleaner, extractor, and dryer cycles to maximize throughput on a high-volume production floor.
  2. Complex fabric and dye risk evaluation — autonomously assess garment color-fastness, fiber content, and soil type to determine safe cleaning techniques for non-routine or high-value articles.
  3. Chemical formulation adjustment — calibrate detergent, solvent, bleach, and starch ratios based on load composition and machine performance data across varied batch conditions.
  4. Equipment troubleshooting — diagnose irregular machine sounds, cycle failures, or chemical imbalances and initiate corrective action to restore production without external assistance.
  5. Complete article lifecycle oversight — manage the full process from customer intake and marking through washing, finishing, folding, and order fulfillment with minimal error rates.
  6. Preventive maintenance execution — perform thorough filter cleaning, lubrication, and minor mechanical adjustments on a proactive schedule to extend equipment service life.
  7. Non-standard order resolution — handle damaged, shrunken, or mismarked garments by consulting care labels, customer records, and industry references to determine remediation steps.
  8. Production data analysis — review shift output records in spreadsheet or database software to identify bottlenecks and recommend process improvements to management.
  9. Customer service escalation — address complaints about cleaning quality or lost articles directly, applying knowledge of cleaning processes and service standards to reach satisfactory outcomes.
  10. Team task coordination — direct coworkers in loading, removal, and finishing duties to balance workload evenly and maintain quality standards across a full shift.
Advanced
Lead / Principal / Executive
  1. Facility workflow strategy — design and implement production scheduling systems that optimize machine utilization, staffing, and turnaround times across the entire laundry or dry-cleaning operation.
  2. Staff training program development — create structured on-the-job training curricula covering sorting, machine operation, chemical handling, and finishing techniques for new and advancing employees.
  3. Quality standards leadership — establish and enforce facility-wide cleaning quality benchmarks, inspection protocols, and corrective action procedures to protect customer satisfaction and brand reputation.
  4. Chemical and solvent safety governance — develop and maintain OSHA-aligned chemical handling, storage, and disposal policies to ensure regulatory compliance across all plant operations.
  5. Equipment acquisition and lifecycle planning — evaluate, recommend, and oversee the purchase or replacement of washers, dry-cleaning machines, dryers, and extractors based on operational needs and ROI.
  6. Technology integration oversight — lead the adoption and configuration of POS, database, and production-tracking software to streamline intake, order management, and reporting at the organizational level.
  7. Performance metrics and accountability — define key production and quality KPIs, monitor results using data tools, and hold team leaders accountable for continuous improvement targets.
  8. Vendor and supplier management — negotiate contracts with chemical suppliers and equipment service providers to maintain cost efficiency and supply reliability for the facility.
  9. Cross-functional customer service strategy — partner with front-of-house staff and management to design intake, marking, and delivery processes that reduce errors and improve the overall customer experience.
  10. Organizational culture and dependability standards — model and champion workplace values of integrity, attention to detail, and stress resilience to build a high-performing, low-turnover production team.

AI-at-Work Competency Framework

Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.

The Anthropic Economic Index (2026-03-24 release) doesn't show enough AI-assisted task observations for this occupation to anchor an AI-at-Work Competency Framework yet. Most physical and on-site occupations land here today; that signal may rise as more workers in this field adopt AI tools.

Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework

Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Ten durable-skill domains mapped to four proficiency/role levels for each occupation. Each statement is aligned to the Pathsmith taxonomy, derived from trusted grounding data and mapped to occupation-specific O*NET tasks and skills.

1Communication8 statements
Emerging
  1. Customer intake communication — records customer names and identifying codes on articles using hand or machine markers while confirming details with the customer Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Verbal instruction reception — listens to supervisor directions for sorting, loading, or machine operation and asks clarifying questions when steps are unclear Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Garment care communication — conveys cleaning method requirements and fabric care restrictions to coworkers sorting or loading articles into machines Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Customer concern response — listens actively to customer complaints about stained or damaged items and relays accurate status information regarding cleaning outcomes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Workflow direction communication — clearly instructs other workers to load, operate, or unload washers, dry-cleaning machines, and extractors using precise verbal or written direction Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Cross-shift handoff communication — documents machine settings, chemical concentrations, and article batch status so incoming workers maintain processing continuity Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Process improvement communication — presents observations about recurring garment damage or chemical misuse to supervisors using structured, evidence-based explanations that drive procedural changes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Mentorship communication — coaches new laundry workers through sorting criteria, machine startup sequences, and chemical regulation by adapting explanations to individual learning pace Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
2Leadership7 statements
Emerging
  1. Task initiation — begins assigned sorting or loading duties without waiting for repeated instruction, demonstrating self-directed work habits on the production floor Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Peer loading coordination — directs coworkers to load or remove articles from washers and dry-cleaning machines, ensuring batches are processed in the correct sequence Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Equipment readiness ownership — takes responsibility for checking machine filters and lubricating equipment before shifts begin without being prompted by supervisors Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Batch workflow leadership — coordinates the sorting, washing, extraction, drying, and folding sequence across a team to meet daily production volume targets Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Chemical process oversight — monitors and adjusts soap, bleach, starch, and additive volumes across multiple machines, correcting coworker deviations from established formulas Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Production team mentorship — trains and evaluates laundry workers on sorting classification, machine regulation, and garment handling, building team-wide competency and reducing rework rates Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Continuous improvement leadership — identifies recurring bottlenecks in the cleaning workflow and implements revised sorting or loading procedures that increase throughput and reduce garment damage Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
3Metacognition7 statements
Emerging
  1. Self-assessment of sorting accuracy — recognizes personal uncertainty when classifying unfamiliar fabric types or stain categories and seeks guidance before proceeding Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Error pattern recognition — identifies recurring personal mistakes in chemical measurement or machine setting and adjusts technique based on observed outcomes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Learning strategy application — uses visual guides, labels, and coworker demonstrations to reinforce memory of garment-specific cleaning codes and machine operation sequences Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Process self-monitoring — tracks personal performance on sorting speed, batch accuracy, and machine regulation against production standards and self-corrects without supervisory feedback Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Skill gap identification — recognizes which fabric types or stain categories require further learning and seeks out targeted practice or instruction to close those gaps Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Reflective practice modeling — documents personal observations on cleaning outcomes across fabric types and uses those records to refine sorting and chemical selection decisions over time Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Cognitive strategy coaching — helps coworkers develop their own methods for remembering sorting criteria, machine sequences, and chemical ratios, improving team-wide retention and accuracy Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
4Critical Thinking7 statements
Emerging
  1. Fabric observation — examines articles to identify visible fabric type, color grouping, and surface dirt level before placing items into a sorting lot Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Cleaning method selection — evaluates fabric composition, colorfastness, and soil content to determine whether an article requires washing, dry cleaning, or specialized treatment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Machine setting evaluation — assesses water temperature, cycle duration, and chemical concentrations against garment care requirements before starting machine operation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Damage root cause analysis — examines garments returned with shrinkage, color bleeding, or residual stains and identifies whether the cause was improper sorting, incorrect chemical use, or machine malfunction Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Chemical volume reasoning — evaluates soap, bleach, starch, and additive levels by comparing article soil content and batch size against standard formulas, adjusting ratios to optimize cleaning without fabric damage Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Process deviation investigation — systematically evaluates recurring quality failures across multiple batches, traces contributing variables, and proposes evidence-based corrective actions to supervisors Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Equipment performance judgment — distinguishes between normal machine variation and indicators of mechanical failure in extractors, dryers, and dry-cleaning units, determining when maintenance escalation is required Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
5Collaboration7 statements
Emerging
  1. Team sorting participation — works alongside coworkers to classify and separate articles by color, fabric, and cleaning technique within shared production lots Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Loading team coordination — collaborates with coworkers to load and unload washers and dry-cleaning machines in synchronized sequence, preventing batch mix-ups or machine idle time Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Shared equipment stewardship — participates with teammates in cleaning machine filters and lubricating equipment, distributing maintenance tasks equitably across the shift Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Cross-function production collaboration — coordinates with customer service, pressing, and delivery staff to ensure marked articles move accurately through the full cleaning cycle without loss or mismatch Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Conflict navigation on the floor — addresses disagreements with coworkers about sorting decisions or machine settings by referencing established garment care standards rather than personal preference Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Team performance elevation — identifies underperforming areas in the group's workflow, redistributes tasks based on individual strengths, and builds shared accountability for batch quality and throughput Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Cross-shift collaboration design — establishes shared documentation and handoff protocols with other shift teams so production continuity and garment tracking are maintained across the full operating day Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
6Character8 statements
Emerging
  1. Article accountability — handles customer garments with care and reports immediately when an item is damaged, mislabeled, or lost rather than concealing the error Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Attendance reliability — arrives on time and ready to begin sorting and machine operation, recognizing that production schedules depend on consistent team presence Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Chemical handling integrity — measures and applies cleaning additives according to established formulas without taking shortcuts that could damage garments or compromise safety Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Honest status reporting — accurately communicates garment condition and cleaning outcomes to supervisors and customers, including unfavorable results such as set stains or fabric damage Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Professional customer interaction — treats customers respectfully when receiving or returning articles, maintaining composure when handling complaints about cleaning results Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Consistent quality standards — applies the same level of care and attention to every garment batch regardless of workload pressure, time of day, or supervision level Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Ethical workplace modeling — demonstrates transparent, accountable behavior in garment handling and customer service that sets a professional standard others on the team emulate Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Safety culture stewardship — consistently follows chemical safety protocols and advocates for their enforcement, recognizing the ethical responsibility to protect coworkers and customers from preventable harm Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
7Creativity7 statements
Emerging
  1. Stain identification curiosity — explores unfamiliar stains by testing small fabric areas with different cleaning agents before committing to a full cleaning cycle Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Improvised article organization — develops personal systems for tracking marked articles through multiple cleaning stages when standard labeling methods are insufficient for complex batch sizes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Problem-solving for delicate items — devises adapted handling or cleaning approaches for fragile, embellished, or unusually soiled garments that fall outside standard processing categories Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Process efficiency innovation — identifies and implements novel workflow arrangements for sorting, loading, and folding sequences that reduce handling time without increasing garment damage risk Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Presentation method adaptation — develops folding, wrapping, or hanging configurations that preserve garment shape and customer presentation quality beyond the minimum standard Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Workflow redesign — conceives and pilots revised sorting classification systems or machine loading sequences that measurably improve batch throughput and cleaning consistency across the team Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Training material creation — designs occupation-specific visual guides, sorting charts, or machine operation references that make tacit cleaning knowledge accessible to new workers Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
8Growth Mindset8 statements
Emerging
  1. Error acceptance — acknowledges sorting or machine operation mistakes without defensiveness and focuses immediately on understanding what went wrong Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. New fabric learning — approaches unfamiliar fabric types or cleaning codes as learning opportunities rather than obstacles, seeking out reference materials or coworker guidance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Feedback integration — applies supervisor corrections to chemical measurement, machine settings, or garment handling technique on subsequent batches rather than reverting to previous habits Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Skill expansion effort — voluntarily practices operating extraction, drying, or dry-cleaning equipment beyond primary assigned duties to build broader production competency Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Persistent quality pursuit — continues refining sorting accuracy and machine regulation technique despite production pressure, treating each batch as an opportunity to improve outcomes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Challenge embrace in complex batches — accepts responsibility for difficult sorting lots involving delicate fabrics, heavy soiling, or mixed cleaning requirements, viewing the difficulty as a development opportunity Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Mastery modeling — demonstrates a visible commitment to continuous skill development that encourages coworkers to invest in their own learning and accept stretch assignments Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Industry knowledge pursuit — seeks out updated information on new cleaning chemicals, machine technologies, or fabric care standards and integrates that knowledge into daily practice Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
9Mindfulness7 statements
Emerging
  1. Sensory attentiveness — pays focused attention to fabric texture, color variation, and soil level during sorting rather than processing articles mechanically without observation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Machine monitoring presence — maintains sustained attention to washer, dry-cleaning machine, extractor, and dryer operation, detecting changes in sound, vibration, or cycle timing that signal problems Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Workload stress awareness — recognizes rising tension during high-volume shifts and uses brief intentional pauses to reset focus before handling delicate or high-value garments Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Intentional chemical regulation — applies soap, detergent, bleach, starch, and additives with deliberate measurement and full attention to valve and lever settings rather than estimating under time pressure Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Customer interaction presence — gives full attention to customers during article intake and return, accurately capturing identifying information and concerns without distraction from background production noise Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Attentional culture building — models and encourages present-moment focus on the production floor, helping coworkers develop habits of deliberate observation that reduce errors and equipment misuse Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Emotion regulation under pressure — maintains calm, methodical garment handling and machine operation during peak production periods, preventing rushed decisions that damage articles or create safety hazards Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
10Fortitude7 statements
Emerging
  1. Physical demand acceptance — sustains garment sorting, loading, and folding tasks through repetitive motion and extended standing without reducing attention to fabric classification accuracy Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Production pressure persistence — maintains sorting and machine operation quality during high-volume periods when batch backlogs create time pressure across the entire shift Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Equipment setback recovery — resumes normal workflow promptly after a machine malfunction or cleaning error, refocusing on remaining batches without prolonged disruption Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Sustained quality under fatigue — upholds garment examination and chemical measurement standards through the full duration of long or physically demanding shifts Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Difficult customer resilience — handles customer dissatisfaction about cleaning outcomes or item damage with composure, maintaining professionalism and problem-solving focus throughout the interaction Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Team resilience anchoring — stabilizes coworker morale and production focus during facility disruptions, equipment failures, or surges in demand, preventing quality deterioration under adverse conditions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Long-term persistence modeling — demonstrates consistent effort and quality standards across weeks and months of repetitive production work, establishing a benchmark of reliability that shapes team culture Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Show O*NET source anchors33 anchors · skillscrosswalk.com

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Source anchors that ground each statement

Related titles
Dry Cleaner · Assorter · Bag Hanger · Bag Washer · Benzene Washer · Benzene Worker · Blanket Washer · Box Storage Worker · Bundle Breaker · Buttoner · Carpet Cleaner · Carpet Renovator
RAPIDS apprenticeships
0084 · Dry Cleaner
O*NET skills
Active ListeningMonitoring
Knowledge domains
Customer and Personal ServiceProduction and Processing
Abilities
Arm-Hand SteadinessNear VisionSpeech RecognitionOral ComprehensionOral ExpressionManual DexterityControl Precision
Work styles
DependabilityAttention to DetailCautiousnessIntegrityCooperationStress Tolerance
Technology
Point of sale POS softwareElectronic mail softwareSpreadsheet softwareOffice suite softwareOperating system softwareWord processing softwareData base user interface and query softwareInternet browser software
Tasks · seed anchors for statements
  1. Load articles into washers or dry-cleaning machines, or direct other workers to perform loading.
  2. Start washers, dry cleaners, driers, or extractors, and turn valves or levers to regulate machine processes and the volume of soap, detergent, water, bleach, starch, and other additives.
  3. Operate extractors and driers, or direct their operation.
  4. Remove items from washers or dry-cleaning machines, or direct other workers to do so.
  5. Sort and count articles removed from dryers, and fold, wrap, or hang them.
  6. Clean machine filters, and lubricate equipment.
  7. Examine and sort into lots articles to be cleaned, according to color, fabric, dirt content, and cleaning technique required.
  8. Receive and mark articles for laundry or dry cleaning with identifying code numbers or names, using hand or machine markers.
CIP education codes
52.020547.060747.060847.060947.061548.0503

Sources: O*NET v30.2 (CC BY 4.0), SkillsCrosswalk.com, LER.me, Anthropic Economic Index, SAFI (Jadhav & Danve, 2026), WEF Skills Taxonomy 2021, Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework. © 2026 EBSCOed.