Contract Sewing Machine Operator Jobs in Columbia, SC

This role involves operating slitter and die cutting machines to support efficient production. You will load materials, run equipment safely and consistently, and perform minor troubleshooting to keep machines operating smoothly. The position requires attention to detail, basic mechanical aptitude, and the ability to follow standard operating procedures in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

• Operate slitter machines and die cutting machines in accordance with established procedures and safety guidelines.
• Load product and materials onto the designated machine, ensuring correct placement and alignment before operation.
• Start and run machines by using control panels or buttons, monitoring performance throughout the production cycle.
• Perform very minor troubleshooting on machines, such as clearing jams, adjusting simple settings, or resetting equipment as needed.
• Use hand tools, tape measures, calipers, and other basic measuring devices to verify product dimensions and ensure quality standards.
• Assist with general production tasks, including basic assembly and general labor, to support overall workflow and efficiency.
• Monitor output for defects or inconsistencies and communicate any issues to the appropriate team members or supervisors.
• Follow all safety protocols and housekeeping standards to maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
• Document production information as required, such as counts, measurements, or machine settings, to support accurate records.
• Collaborate with other operators and production staff to meet daily production goals and maintain smooth operations.

• Experience operating slitter machines and die cutting machines, preferably 6 months to 1 year of machine operating experience.
• Ability to perform basic machine operation tasks, including loading product, starting equipment, and monitoring performance.
• Basic troubleshooting skills to address very minor machine issues during production.
• Ability to use hand tools, including tape measures and calipers, to measure and verify product dimensions.
• General production and assembly experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment.
• Mechanical aptitude and comfort working with production machinery and equipment.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions, standard operating procedures, and safety guidelines.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing quality work.
• Capability to work 12-hour shifts on a rotating schedule, including days and nights as required.

• Previous experience with laser or other specialized production equipment is a plus.
• Experience performing general labor tasks in a production environment.
• Comfort working with various mechanical and production tools and equipment.
• Willingness to learn new machines and processes and adapt to changing production needs.
• Reliable attendance and a strong work ethic in a team-oriented environment.

You will join a production team that values reliability, safety, and continuous improvement. The rotating schedule provides extended periods of time off during the week, supporting work-life balance. You will have the opportunity to build hands-on mechanical and production skills while working with modern equipment in a structured environment. The company promotes a culture of teamwork, accountability, and on-the-job learning, offering a solid foundation for long-term growth in manufacturing.

This role is based in a manufacturing facility operating slitter and die cutting machines, as well as other production equipment. The schedule follows a rotating 2-2-3 pattern, with 4 consecutive day shifts from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on a 2-2-3 rotation and 5 consecutive night shifts from 7:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. on a 2-2-3 rotation, providing a mix of workdays and regular extended breaks. The environment is fast-paced and production-focused, with exposure to machinery noise and moving equipment. Team members use hand tools, tape measures, calipers, and other measuring devices as part of their daily tasks. Employees are expected to follow all safety procedures and wear appropriate work attire and protective equipment suitable for an industrial setting.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Blythewood, SC.

The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $21.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Blythewood,SC.

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 31, 2026.

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companies’ construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.