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Custom Embroidery Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Individuals with similar experience, such as those working in upholstery, custom textiles, embroidery, or garment manufacturing, are encouraged to apply. Responsibilities * Operate industrial sewing ...

Sewing Machine Operator

Romeoville, IL ยท On-site

$19.50 - $20.50/hr

Individuals with similar experience, such as those working in upholstery, custom textiles, embroidery, or garment manufacturing, are encouraged to apply. Responsibilities * Operate industrial sewing ...

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Custom Embroidery information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$10

$18

$25

How much do custom embroidery jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for custom embroidery in Chicago, IL is $18.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $20.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a custom embroidery specialist?

To excel as a Custom Embroidery Specialist, you need expertise in textile techniques, attention to detail, and often formal training in design or garment production. Familiarity with embroidery machines, digitizing software, and relevant design tools like Adobe Illustrator or CorelDRAW is crucial. Creativity, patience, and strong communication skills help you interpret client needs and deliver high-quality results. These skills ensure precise, attractive embroidery work that meets customer specifications and maintains high standards of craftsmanship.

What is the difference between Custom Embroidery vs Embroidery Machine Operator?

AspectCustom EmbroideryEmbroidery Machine Operator
CredentialsDesign skills, embroidery software knowledgeMachine operation certifications, technical skills
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, print shops, custom shopsManufacturing facilities, production lines
Industry UsageCreating custom designs, personalized itemsRunning embroidery machines for mass or custom production

Custom Embroidery involves designing and creating personalized embroidery patterns, often requiring artistic skills and software knowledge. Embroidery Machine Operators focus on operating and maintaining embroidery machines to produce embroidered products. While both roles work within the embroidery industry, Custom Embroidery emphasizes design and customization, whereas Embroidery Machine Operators concentrate on machine operation and production efficiency.

How much do custom embroidery specialists make?

Custom embroidery specialists typically earn between $25,000 and $45,000 annually, depending on experience, skill level, and location. Skilled workers with advanced techniques or certifications may earn higher wages, especially in commercial or industrial settings.

What is custom embroidery?

Custom embroidery is the process of decorating fabric or other materials with needle and thread, creating personalized or unique designs, logos, or text. This technique is commonly used to add branding to uniforms, personalize gifts, and embellish apparel like hats, shirts, and jackets. Custom embroidery can be done by hand or with specialized embroidery machines, allowing for intricate and durable designs. It is valued for its professional appearance and long-lasting results.

How much do custom embroidery professionals make?

Custom embroidery professionals typically earn an average hourly wage of $12 to $20, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $25,000 to $45,000 depending on experience, skill level, and location. Many work as freelancers or in retail settings, and proficiency with embroidery machines and design software can influence earnings.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in custom embroidery roles, and how can they be managed?

Professionals in custom embroidery often face challenges such as tight deadlines, maintaining consistent quality across large orders, and adapting to a variety of fabric types and customer specifications. Managing these challenges typically involves strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication with clients and team members. Staying updated with the latest embroidery technologies and regularly maintaining equipment also helps ensure smooth workflow and high-quality results.
What are the most commonly searched types of Custom Embroidery jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Custom Embroidery jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What job categories do people searching Custom Embroidery jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Custom Embroidery jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Infographic showing various Custom Embroidery job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,705 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

Experienced Embroidery Specialist

SNAPPY PHOTO GIFTS INC

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Job description

We are a thriving small business in the Lincoln Square area, specializing in high-quality custom embroidery. With a reputation for excellence and attention to detail, we take pride in delivering unique embroidered products to our valued customers. Our busy shop requires a skilled and experienced Embroidery Specialist to join our team and help manage our production schedule while ensuring top-notch digitization and embroidery work.

Job Description: As an Embroidery Specialist you will play a crucial role in our production process. Your primary responsibilities will include:

  • Embroidery Production: Operating and maintaining embroidery machines to create high-quality embroidery designs on various products.
  • Digitization: Converting design files into digitized embroidery patterns using industry-standard software.
  • Production Management: Organizing and managing the embroidery production schedule to ensure timely delivery of orders without compromising on quality.
  • Quality Control: Inspecting finished products to ensure they meet our high standards of quality and accuracy.
  • Collaboration: Working closely with other team members to coordinate production efforts, troubleshoot issues, and optimize workflow.

Requirements:

  • Experience: A minimum of 3 years of hands-on experience in operating embroidery machines and digitizing embroidery designs.
  • Digitization Expertise: Proficient in digitizing software ( Pulse ) to create accurate and high-quality embroidery patterns.
  • Organizational Skills: Strong organizational and time-management skills to manage the production schedule efficiently.
  • Attention to Detail: Meticulous attention to detail to ensure embroidery designs are replicated accurately and consistently.
  • Team Player: Ability to work collaboratively within a small team environment and contribute to a positive work atmosphere.
  • Problem Solving: Effective problem-solving skills to address any technical issues with embroidery machines or digitization software.
  • Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills to communicate effectively with team members and customers.
  • Portfolio: A portfolio showcasing your previous embroidery work and digitization projects will be highly regarded.

If you are an experienced Embroidery Specialist with a passion for detail and a strong drive to contribute to a growing small business, we encourage you to apply. To apply, please send your resume, cover letter, and portfolio.

Company Description

Snappy Printing and Graphics has entered our 15th year in business, we specialize in screen printing and embroidery but it doesn't stop there, we do wide format printing, sublimation and graphic design.