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Embroidery Machine Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

As an Embroidery Machine Operator, you'll play an important role in creating the gowns, stoles, hoods, honor items, and custom accessories that help graduates celebrate one of the most memorable days ...

As an Embroidery Machine Operator, you'll play an important role in creating the gowns, stoles, hoods, honor items, and custom accessories that help graduates celebrate one of the most memorable days ...

As an Embroidery Machine Operator, you'll play an important role in creating the gowns, stoles, hoods, honor items, and custom accessories that help graduates celebrate one of the most memorable days ...

As an Embroidery Machine Operator, you'll play an important role in creating the gowns, stoles, hoods, honor items, and custom accessories that help graduates celebrate one of the most memorable days ...

As an Embroidery Machine Operator, you'll play an important role in creating the gowns, stoles, hoods, honor items, and custom accessories that help graduates celebrate one of the most memorable days ...

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THE ROLE Embroidery Machine Operator Quince is hiring Embroidery Machine Operators for our production facility in Santa Fe Springs. This is a shop floor role. You will be assigned to a primary ...

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Embroidery Machine Operator information

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How much do embroidery machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for embroidery machine operator in the United States is $16.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a embroidery machine operator do?

An embroidery machine operator sets up, operates, and maintains embroidery machines to create designs on fabric or garments. They load patterns, adjust settings, troubleshoot issues, and ensure quality control during production. Familiarity with computer-aided design (CAD) software and attention to detail are important skills for this role.

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

AspectEmbroidery Machine OperatorSewing Machine Operator
CredentialsMay require basic training or certification in embroidery techniquesTypically requires basic sewing skills, sometimes certification in industrial sewing
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or textile companies focusing on decorative stitchingGarment factories, upholstery, or textile production
Industry UsageUsed mainly in apparel, promotional items, and decorative textilesUsed in clothing manufacturing, upholstery, and fabric production
Job FocusDesigning and operating embroidery machines for decorative stitchingOperating sewing machines for assembling fabrics and garments

While both roles involve operating sewing-related machinery, Embroidery Machine Operators focus on decorative stitching and embroidery designs, often requiring specific training. Sewing Machine Operators handle general sewing tasks in manufacturing, with a broader focus on garment assembly. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Embroidery Machine Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Embroidery Machine Operator, you need strong attention to detail, manual dexterity, and experience with textile or garment production, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with commercial embroidery machines, digitizing software, and basic machine maintenance is typically required. Good communication, time management, and problem-solving skills help operators efficiently handle custom orders and troubleshoot issues. These skills ensure high-quality embroidered products, minimize errors, and maintain smooth production workflows.

How much do embroidery machine technicians make?

Embroidery machine operators typically earn an average hourly wage of around $12 to $20, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $25,000 to $40,000. Earnings can vary based on experience, skill level, and the complexity of the embroidery work performed.

Is embroidery in high demand?

Embroidery machine operators are in steady demand in the apparel, promotional products, and custom gift industries. The need for skilled operators remains consistent as businesses seek quality embroidery work, especially with the growth of personalized and small-batch production. Proficiency with embroidery machines and attention to detail are valuable skills in this field.

What are some common challenges faced by Embroidery Machine Operators and how can they be managed?

Embroidery Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as machine thread breakage, design misalignment, and keeping up with production deadlines. To manage these issues, it's important to regularly maintain and clean the machines, follow precise setup instructions for each job, and communicate closely with team members in design and quality control. Staying organized and attentive to detail helps ensure high-quality results and smooth workflow, making the role both rewarding and dynamic.

What is the highest paying machine operator job?

The highest paying machine operator jobs are often in specialized industries such as aerospace, oil and gas, or manufacturing of complex machinery, where operators may earn higher wages due to technical skills and certifications. Roles involving CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines or advanced automation typically offer higher salaries compared to standard machine operation positions.

What does an Embroidery Machine Operator do?

An Embroidery Machine Operator is responsible for running and maintaining embroidery machines to decorate garments, fabrics, or other materials with specific designs. Their tasks include setting up machines, loading materials, monitoring production for quality, and making adjustments as needed. They may also be responsible for basic machine maintenance and troubleshooting. This role requires attention to detail, a steady hand, and the ability to follow design specifications closely.
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Infographic showing various Embroidery Machine Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 29% As Needed, 29% Full Time, 40% Part Time, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,326 per year, or $16.5 per hour.
Embroidery Machine Operator

Embroidery Machine Operator

HERFF JONES

Arcola, IL • On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


Herff Jones rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

45th of 58 rated fashion and textile manufacturers


Job description

Position Title: Embroidery Operator
Location: Arcola
Starting Pay for position: $20-24 / hour
JOIN OUR TEAM!
About Herff Jones:
Indianapolis-based Herff Jones is the leading provider of graduation and educational products and services designed to inspire achievement and create memorable experiences for students. Herff Jones' products include class rings and jewelry, caps and gowns, diplomas and announcements as well as motivation and recognition programs. Focused on building long-term relationships through a nationwide network of over 1,400 employees and sales partners, the professionals at Herff Jones have been helping elevate the student experience throughout the lifelong journey of education for more than 100 years. For more information about Herff Jones, please visit www.herffjones.com.
Your Opportunity:
Every graduation represents years of hard work, dedication, and accomplishment. As an Embroidery Machine Operator, you'll play an important role in creating the gowns, stoles, hoods, honor items, and custom accessories that help graduates celebrate one of the most memorable days of their lives. We're looking for someone who takes pride in producing high-quality work, enjoys working with equipment and technology, and has an eye for detail. Whether you're an experienced embroidery professional or eager to learn, we'd love to meet you.
What You'll Be Doing On A Daily Basis:
  • Operate and monitor embroidery machines to customize graduation regalia and accessories
  • Prepare gowns, stoles, hoods, bags, and other products for embroidery
  • Read work orders and ensure embroidery designs meet customer specifications
  • Perform thread changes, machine setup, and routine adjustments
  • Inspect finished products for quality, accuracy, and appearance
  • Troubleshoot minor machine issues and report maintenance needs
  • Maintain production schedules while ensuring exceptional quality
  • Keep work areas clean, organized, and safe
  • Assist with special projects and seasonal production demands

What You'll Bring to the Table:
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Comfortable working in a fast-paced production environment
  • Mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn new equipment
  • Dependable, reliable, and accountable
  • Ability to follow written instructions and production specifications
  • Previous embroidery, sewing, textile, manufacturing, or production experience is a plus-but not required

Physical Requirements include but not limited to:
  • Lifting, carrying, sitting, grasping, reaching, standing, kneeling, walking, bending, twisting.
  • Standing on a fatigue mat in a specific area throughout a 10 hour+ shift.
  • Be able to regularly lift/move up to 50lbs.
  • Standing for 8 hours a day or longer.
  • Noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to above moderate.
  • Ability to work in an environment with repetitive motions of the arms, wrists, and elbows.
  • Physical strength and dexterity to perform essential job functions.

Herff Jones, Inc. and its affiliates are equal opportunity employers and maintain affirmative action plans to recruit, retain, develop, and promote qualified individuals without unlawful consideration of race, gender, gender identity, color, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, citizenship status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. Herff Jones strives to maintain a work environment free from unlawful discrimination and harassment, where associates are treated with respect and dignity.
Any employment agency, person or entity that submits a résumé into this career site or to a hiring manager does so with the understanding that the applicant's résumé will become the property of Herff Jones. Herff Jones will have the right to hire that applicant at its discretion without any fee owed to the submitting employment agency, person or entity.

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