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Embroidery Operator Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

A&K Designs, Inc

Embroidery Team Lead

Portland, OR · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

A&K Designs, Inc is a family owned and operated sports apparel manufacturing company, proudly ... Were looking for an experienced Embroidery Team Lead who can keep machines running smoothly, teams ...

Apply Early

Aquent

Senior Pattern Maker

Beaverton, OR · On-site

$49.80 - $55.33/hr

Strong hands-on sewing and garment construction skills (must be comfortable operating sewing and embroidery machines) * Deep expertise in flat pattern making, garment construction, and technical ...

Lids

5128 - Store Manager

Happy Valley, OR · On-site

$21 - $24/hr

We're also the industry leader in on-demand customization, offering in-store embroidery that turns ... Execute special pricing signage and promotional presentation adjustments during operating hours to ...

All JobsEmbroidery Operator JobsEmbroidery Operator Jobs in Oregon

Embroidery Operator information

See Oregon salary details

$10

$17

$22

How much do embroidery operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for embroidery operator in Oregon is $17.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $19.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much to charge per 1000 stitches of embroidery?

Embroidery operators typically charge between $10 and $20 per 1,000 stitches, depending on the complexity of the design, the type of thread used, and the order size. Pricing may also vary based on the machine's speed and the operator's skill level. It's common to include setup fees and consider material costs when setting a final price.

What are Embroidery Operators?

Embroidery Operators are skilled workers who operate embroidery machines to create decorative designs on fabrics and garments. They are responsible for setting up the machines, selecting appropriate threads and patterns, and ensuring the designs are accurately stitched according to specifications. Embroidery Operators also maintain and troubleshoot the machines, inspect finished products for quality, and may assist in digitizing designs. This role requires attention to detail, technical know-how, and an understanding of fabrics and embroidery techniques.

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

AspectEmbroidery OperatorSewing Machine Operator
CredentialsBasic training or certification in embroidery techniquesBasic sewing skills, sometimes certification in sewing or textile work
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or custom embroidery shops, textile factoriesGarment factories, textile manufacturing, upholstery production
Job TasksDesigning and operating embroidery machines to add decorative stitchingOperating sewing machines to assemble or alter garments and textiles

Embroidery Operators focus on decorative stitching and embroidery design, often requiring specific training in embroidery techniques. Sewing Machine Operators handle general sewing tasks, including garment assembly and fabric stitching. While both roles involve machine operation in textile settings, their specific skills and tasks differ, making them distinct but related positions in the textile industry.

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

Embroidery Operators often encounter challenges such as thread breakage, machine malfunctions, and ensuring precise alignment of designs on various fabrics. Staying attentive to machine maintenance schedules and regularly cleaning equipment can help minimize downtime. Additionally, careful preparation of materials and proactive troubleshooting of minor issues can improve efficiency and the quality of finished products. Collaborating with designers and production teams also ensures that specifications are met and any design adjustments are communicated effectively.

How much money can you make doing embroidery?

Embroidery operators typically earn between $25,000 and $45,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the work. Skilled operators with certifications or advanced techniques may earn higher wages, especially in manufacturing or custom design environments.

What skills do you need to be an embroidery machine operator?

Embroidery machine operators need strong attention to detail, manual dexterity, and the ability to read and interpret design files. Familiarity with embroidery machines, basic computer skills, and the ability to troubleshoot equipment are also important for efficient operation.

What Is an Embroidery Operator?

An embroidery operator controls a machine that embroiders textiles, such as cloth and other fabric used for making garments like uniforms, with decorations, such as labels, beads, or pearls. As an embroidery operator, your duties are to calibrate and control the embroidering machine settings or to oversee sewing embroidery by hand when the job requires it. Other responsibilities include ensuring that the embroidery machine is maintained and that you address all minor repairs or inform your supervisor when a persistent issue occurs.

Is embroidery in high demand?

Embroidery operators are in steady demand in the apparel, promotional products, and custom gift industries, especially as businesses seek personalized and branded items. Employment opportunities depend on industry growth and regional manufacturing needs, with skills in machine operation and design software being valuable. Overall, the demand remains stable but can vary based on market trends and technological advancements in embroidery equipment.

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

To thrive as an Embroidery Operator, you need strong attention to detail, manual dexterity, and a basic understanding of fabric types, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with embroidery machines, digitizing software, and maintenance tools is typically required. Dependability, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure high-quality output, minimal machine downtime, and efficient collaboration within production teams.
More about Embroidery Operator jobs
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What are popular job titles related to Embroidery Operator jobs in OR? For Embroidery Operator jobs in OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Embroidery Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Embroidery Operator job openings in Oregon as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 4% As Needed, 19% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 9% Temporary, and 53% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,292 per year, or $17.4 per hour.
Embroidery Team Lead

Embroidery Team Lead

A&K Designs, Inc

Portland, OR • On-site

$19 - $26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago

Be an early applicant

Job description

A&K Designs, Inc is a family owned and operated sports apparel manufacturing company, proudly serving the Portland community for the last 35 years. We have a strong company culture that is committed to fostering an environment for every teammate thats welcoming, respectful, and inclusive. Everything we produce has high visibility and we take pride in our quality, innovation, and on-time delivery.
We are moving forward, searching for new ways to improve what we do and who we are, and looking for energetic and engaged people to join our team.

Lead the Stitch. Own the Finish.
Were looking for an experienced Embroidery Team Lead who can keep machines running smoothly, teams focused, and every stitch productionready. If you thrive on the hum of multihead machines, can spot a tension issue from across the floor, and enjoy leading people as much as solving mechanical problemsthis role was made for you.
What Youll Do
Youll manage the embroidery floor from setup to final fold, ensuring quality, efficiency, and ontime delivery:
  • Coordinate daily embroidery workflow based on production schedules, managing machine capacity and prioritizing rush orders
  • Set up and assist in operating singlehead and multihead embroidery machines (Tajima, ZSK)
  • Load, verify, and troubleshoot DST files, ensuring correct color sequences, placement, and stitch registration
  • Lead and direct embroidery operators, assigning work based on skill level and machine availability
  • Train new hires and crosstrain team members on:
Proper hooping techniques
Thread tension adjustments
Basic machine operation and maintenance
  • Conduct spot checks during production to catch issues like thread breaks, puckering, or registration errors early
  • Enforce safety protocols and maintain a clean, organized, and compliant work environment
  • Oversee and perform daily/weekly maintenance: cleaning, oiling, and greasing embroidery heads and rotary hooks
  • Troubleshoot and complete minor repairs (birdnesting, needle breaks, tension, timing) and coordinate major repairs with technicians
  • Jump in on additional duties as production needs evolve
What You Bring
Youre confident with machines, fabrics, and people:
  • Handson expertise with commercial embroidery machines, especially Tajima and ZSK
  • Deep understanding of fabric types (knits, wovens, performance fabrics) and correct stabilizers, backings, and needles
  • Mastery of multiple hooping systems: tubular hoops, magnetic hoops, clamps
  • Comfort using production tablets/computers; basic Wilcom digitizing knowledge for minor edits is a strong plus
  • Sharp eye for quality issues such as density problems, registration shifts, or placement errors
  • Mechanical mindsetyou can diagnose issues quickly and minimize downtime
  • Clear verbal communication skills for instructing operators and reporting updates to leadership
  • Experience training, motivating, and leading a team is highly valued
  • Strong reliability, punctuality, and followthrough
  • Selfmotivated team player who takes ownership of results
  • Ability to read and follow production sales orders precisely
  • Intermediate English reading/writing required; Spanish/English bilingual preferred
  • 3+ years of hands-on experience operating commercial embroidery machines (multi-head experience preferred)
  • 1+ years of experience in a lead or supervisory role within a manufacturing environment.
Why This Role Matters
Youre the bridge between design intent and finished productand your work shows up in every final stitch.
If youre ready to lead production with confidence, precision, and pride, we want to hear from you.
Our regular schedule is Monday - Thursday, 6:00am to 3:15pm, Friday, 6:00am to 11:00am.
What you'll get:
  • Medical, dental and vision with generous employer contribution
  • 401k with employer match
  • Two weeks of paid time off per year
  • 8 company paid holidays
  • Employee Assistance Program
Compensation: $19.00 - $26.00 per hour