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Alterations Sewing Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Alterations Specialist

Irvine, CA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Must be willing to learn and safely operate sewing machine. * Flexibility in working hours based on business needs is a must. * Demonstrated expertise in alterations and custom sewing is a ...

Alterations Specialist

Tarzana, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area while properly using sewing, pressing, and alterations equipment. What Success Looks Like * Consistently complete alterations and pressing tasks on ...

Alterations Specialist

Modesto, CA

$17.25 - $21.25/hr

Manage all alterations, fittings and sewing, steaming, pressing and spot cleaning of garments to company standards. * Resolve customer service issues in a swift and effective manner that complies ...

Alterations Specialist

Murrieta, CA · On-site

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

Manage all alterations, fittings and sewing, steaming, pressing and spot cleaning of garments to company standards. * Resolve customer service issues in a swift and effective manner that complies ...

Alterations Associate

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$29.48 - $36.86/hr

... all sewing equipment Self‐inspect completed work to ensure quality standards are met Complete alterations assigned tasks, as assigned by Supervisor/Lead Interpret a variety of instructions ...

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Alterations Sewing information

See California salary details

$10

$17

$24

How much do alterations sewing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for alterations sewing in California is $17.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.43 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an alterations sewer?

Alterations sewing jobs involve modifying, repairing, or customizing clothing and textiles to fit clients’ needs. Professionals in this field use sewing machines and hand-sewing techniques to adjust garment lengths, take in or let out seams, replace zippers, and make other adjustments. They often work in tailor shops, dry cleaners, or as independent seamstresses and tailors. Attention to detail and strong sewing skills are essential for success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an alterations sewer?

To thrive as an Alterations Sewer, you need proficiency in garment construction, fabric handling, and accurate measurement, often supported by experience or vocational training in sewing. Familiarity with sewing machines, sergers, and pressing equipment, as well as knowledge of garment fitting techniques, is typically required. Attention to detail, patience, and strong customer communication skills help ensure precise work and client satisfaction. These skills and qualities are crucial to delivering high-quality alterations, maintaining client trust, and ensuring garments fit perfectly.

What are some common challenges faced in an alterations sewing role, and how can they be managed?

One common challenge in alterations sewing is working with a variety of fabrics, some of which may be delicate or difficult to handle, such as silk or stretch materials. Managing customer expectations regarding fit and turnaround times can also be demanding, especially during busy seasons. Attention to detail is essential to ensure that each alteration meets quality standards, and strong communication skills help clarify requests with clients or team members. Staying organized and maintaining a clean workspace are key strategies to manage these challenges effectively.

What is the difference between Alterations Sewing vs Tailoring?

AspectAlterations SewingTailoring
CredentialsMay require sewing certifications or experienceOften requires formal tailoring training or certification
Work EnvironmentAlteration shops, dry cleaners, clothing storesCustom tailoring shops, high-end boutiques, fashion houses
Industry UsageCommonly used for minor adjustments and repairsUsed for creating or fitting custom garments from scratch
Search & ComparisonOften searched alongside alterations, repairs, sewingCompared with alterations, custom sewing, couture

Alterations Sewing primarily involves modifying existing garments to improve fit or repair, often in retail or dry cleaning settings. Tailoring, on the other hand, focuses on creating or customizing garments from scratch, requiring advanced sewing skills and formal training. While both roles involve sewing expertise, alterations are more about adjustments, whereas tailoring emphasizes craftsmanship and custom design.

What jobs can you get with alterations sewing skills?

Alterations sewing skills can qualify individuals for jobs such as clothing alterations specialist, tailor, seamstress, or dressmaker. These roles typically involve repairing, resizing, and customizing garments, often requiring knowledge of sewing machines, pattern making, and customer service. Employment can be found in dry cleaners, clothing stores, or as independent contractors.

What cities in California are hiring for Alterations Sewing jobs?

Cities in California with the most Alterations Sewing job openings:

Infographic showing various Alterations Sewing job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 59% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,947 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Dry Cleaner Front Counter Customer Service

ADALAR INC

Newport Beach, CA • On-site

$18 - $19/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

We are a small, family-run dry cleaners located in a quiet Newport Beach neighborhood, not far from UCI. We're currently looking for a reliable and friendly team member to join our team. This position is part-time, 1-6 pm M-F and 9-4 pm on Saturdays. 30-35 hours a week. Preferably, someone with experience in the dry cleaning field.
Our business hours are:
Monday–Friday: 7 AM – 6 PM
Saturday: 9 AM – 4 PM
Sunday: Closed
Key Responsibilities::
We're looking for someone who can help with front counter customer service, including:
• Assisting customers with drop-offs and pick-ups
• Provide information about services, pricing, and garment care.
• Handle customer inquiries, resolve complaints, and ensure a positive experience.
• Manage the assembly of garments to maintain accuracy and efficiency.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization within the workspace.
• Monitor inventory levels and coordinate restocking of supplies as needed.
• Tagging, bagging, and organizing garments
• Using our computer system to process orders (basic computer knowledge is required)
• Handling payments and transactions
• Ensuring high-quality presentation of garments
• Light sewing/alteration skills are a plus (e.g., pinning for alterations, sewing buttons, fixing hems or straps)
Qualifications and Skills:
• Detail-oriented and dependable
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities
• Comfortable working independently
• Friendly and able to communicate clearly with customers
• Interested in providing excellent customer service
• Experience with light sewing or taking alteration measurements
• Knowledge of brand-name garment care and dry-cleaning processes is a plus.
• High level of reliability and punctuality.
• Ability to lift and move garments and supplies as needed.
Previous experience in customer service, ideally in the dry-cleaning industry preferred.
What We Offer:
• A steady, reliable workload
• Supportive, family-style work environment
• Long-term job stability
• Competitive pay: $18–$19 per hour, depending on experience
To Apply:
Please email your resume or a short note describing your interest and availability. We’d love to meet you