1.
skilled worker; experienced craftsman; master artisan
A worker who has achieved a high level of skill and expertise through extensive training and experience, particularly in manufacturing or craftsmanship.
熟練工の技術は機械では再現できない。
The skills of a master craftsman cannot be replicated by machines.
熟練工が不足しているのが課題だ。
A shortage of skilled workers is the challenge.
若い世代に熟練工の技をどう伝えるかが問題になっている。
How to pass on the skills of experienced craftsmen to the younger generation has become an issue.
A compound of 熟練 (mastery, skill through experience) and 工 (worker, craftsman). Japan's manufacturing sector has long depended on 熟練工, and the aging and retirement of these workers is a significant social issue known as the 技術伝承 (technology succession) problem. Compare with 職人 (craftsman, artisan, broader term) and 技術者 (engineer, technician).