Assistant Pattern Cutting Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

The Industrial Sewing Specialist is responsible for operating industrial sewing equipment to manufacture high-quality textile and soft goods products according to production specifications. This role ensures accuracy, efficiency, and adherence to quality and safety standards in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Industrial Sewing Specialist I

The Industrial Sewing Specialist - Level 1 performs foundational production sewing operations in a manufacturing environment. This position is responsible for assembling standard soft goods products in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), work instructions, quality standards, and production schedules. The role focuses on developing machine proficiency, accuracy, and consistency while maintaining a safe and organized workspace.

Production & Sewing

• Read and understand work orders, patterns, technical drawings, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and other work instructions
• Follow templates, patterns, and approved samples to ensure accurate construction
• Sew standard products and subcomponents using established SOPs and work instructions
• Operate industrial sewing machines including straight stitch, serger, binder, and bartack
• Assemble components such as seats, backs, overlays, hip guides, laterals, and related soft goods items
• Use tools as instructed and required, including measuring tapes, cordless drills, wrenches, bag sealers, hex keys, and label guns.
• Maintain expected daily production output and quality standards

Preparation & Material Handling

• Review work orders and assembly instructions prior to production
• Pull and stage required materials and components
• Verify materials meet specifications before use
• Properly package and label completed work orders; place in designated location.

Quality Control

• Inspect completed work for stitching accuracy, material conformity, and workmanship
• Measure components using rulers and measuring tools (inches and fractions)
• Compare materials (color, texture, shape) to approved standards
• Report discrepancies or quality concerns to supervisor

Documentation & Workplace Standards

• Accurately complete required production documentation
• Record material usage as required
• Maintain clean, organized, and safe workstations
• Comply with all company safety policies and procedures
• Contributes to a respectful, non-hostile, non-violent work environment.
• Understands the purpose, value, and impact work has on product customers and users.
• Other duties as assigned.

Industrial Sewing Specialist II

The Industrial Sewing Specialist II is experienced and proficient with sewing and soft good operations. They are able to produce standard order products as well as custom orders.

Advanced Production Capability

The Industrial Sewing Specialist II must be able to proficiently perform all duties of Industrial Sewing Specialist I in addition to advanced production abilities

Proficient in operation of all primary department sewing machines

Independently sew standard products with minimal supervision

Maintains consistent production rates while meeting quality standards

Assist in workstation setup and material preparation

Performs more complex sewing and soft good operations, including custom orders

Read the Custom Order and review the Configurator page and any notes or drawings included to make items to custom seating specifications.

Perform routine machine adjustments to support routine sewing applications.

Perform machine maintenance and report mechanical issues

Able to proficiently operate at least one of the advanced cutting systems: Laser cutter, pad printer, or M8 pattern cutter

Inventory & Workflow Support

• Perform cycle counts and assist with inventory verification
• Monitor material levels and communicate shortages or discrepancies
• Recognize production bottlenecks and report workflow issues

Training & Team Support

• Provide guidance and informal training to Level 1 Technicians
• Assist with onboarding and skill development of new team members
• Promote teamwork and positive communication within the department

Continuous Improvement

• Identify opportunities to improve efficiency and reduce waste
• Suggest process improvements to supervisor

Additional Competencies

• Competent in operating multiple industrial machines within the department
• Increased independence in interpreting complex work instructions