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Industrial Sewing Machine Operator Jobs in California

Sewer

Garden Grove, CA ยท On-site

$17.75 - $19/hr

Candidates must have experience operating industrial sewing machines in a manufacturing environment. This position requires attention to detail, quality workmanship, and the ability to meet ...

Sewing Machine Operator

Riverside, CA ยท On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Our client is seeking a Sewing Machine Operator to join their team! This is a full time opportunity. $19.00 to $20.00 per hour (DOE) Key Responsibilities: * Set up, operate, and maintain textile ...

We are currently seeking a regular full-time Sewing Machine Operator. This individual is responsible for sewing and assembling products using approved samples, Bills of Materials (BOMs), detailed ...

Sewing Machine Operator

Tracy, CA ยท On-site

$35K - $42K/yr

We are currently seeking a regular full-time Sewing Machine Operator. This individual is responsible for sewing and assembling products using approved samples, Bills of Materials (BOMs), detailed ...

Industrial Sewer

Goleta, CA

$17.25 - $20.50/hr

All facets of set-up and operation of industrial sewing machine. * Guide parts under needle following edges, seams, and guides on machine bed or markings on part. * Sew to Production Sample (which is ...

Industrial Sewer

Goleta, CA ยท On-site

$17.25 - $20.50/hr

All facets of set-up and operation of industrial sewing machine. * Guide parts under needle following edges, seams, and guides on machine bed or markings on part. * Sew to Production Sample (which is ...

Sewing Associate

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Contribute to specialty projects, and other tasks as needed OUR REQUIREMENTS * 3+ years of experience operating industrial sewing machines in furniture production, sewing, or a related field

Sewing Associate

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$21 - $24/hr

Contribute to specialty projects, and other tasks as needed OUR REQUIREMENTS * 3+ years of experience operating industrial sewing machines in furniture production, sewing, or a related field

Sewing Associate

Los Angeles, CA

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Contribute to specialty projects, and other tasks as needed OUR REQUIREMENTS * 3+ years of experience operating industrial sewing machines in furniture production, sewing, or a related field

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Industrial Sewing Machine Operator information

See California salary details

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$16

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How much do industrial sewing machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for industrial sewing machine operator in California is $16.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $17.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an industrial sewing machine operator do?

An Industrial Sewing Machine Operator is responsible for operating specialized sewing machines to assemble or repair garments and other textile products in a factory or manufacturing setting. They read patterns, follow detailed instructions, and handle various fabrics to produce items such as clothing, upholstery, or industrial textiles. Operators must ensure quality, maintain their machines, and meet production targets while adhering to safety standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an industrial sewing machine operator?

To thrive as an Industrial Sewing Machine Operator, you need strong manual dexterity, attention to detail, and a basic understanding of garment construction, usually with a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with various industrial sewing machines, fabric types, and safety protocols is essential, and some employers may require training or certification in machine operation. Reliability, teamwork, and good communication skills help operators collaborate efficiently and maintain production flow. These skills ensure quality and consistency in manufacturing while meeting productivity and safety standards.

What are some common challenges industrial sewing machine operators face on the job, and how can they be addressed?

Industrial Sewing Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent quality during high-volume production, managing repetitive tasks that can lead to fatigue, and troubleshooting machine malfunctions. Effective time management, regular maintenance of equipment, and adopting proper ergonomic practices can help address these issues. Additionally, open communication with supervisors and working closely with quality control teams ensures that any problems are identified and resolved quickly, helping operators maintain productivity and product standards.

What is the difference between Industrial Sewing Machine Operator vs Textile Worker?

AspectIndustrial Sewing Machine OperatorTextile Worker
CredentialsHigh school diploma, sewing certificationsHigh school diploma, basic textile training
Work EnvironmentFactories, sewing roomsTextile mills, manufacturing plants
Job FocusOperating sewing machines to produce garments or productsHandling raw textiles, fabric processing
Industry UsageApparel, upholstery, industrial textilesTextile production, fabric manufacturing

The main difference is that Industrial Sewing Machine Operators focus on operating sewing machines to assemble products, while Textile Workers handle raw fabrics and textile processing. Both roles are essential in textile manufacturing but differ in tasks and work environment.

How much do industrial sewing machine operators make in the US?

Industrial sewing machine operators in the US typically earn a median hourly wage of around $14 to $17, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $29,000 to $35,000. Wages can vary based on experience, location, and the complexity of the tasks performed, and operators often need to be skilled in machine maintenance and fabric handling.

What can I make with an industrial sewing machine?

An industrial sewing machine operator can produce a wide range of products including clothing, upholstery, bags, tents, footwear, and industrial textiles. These machines are designed for high-volume, durable stitching, making them suitable for manufacturing various fabric-based goods. Skills in pattern making and fabric handling are also important in this role.

What are popular job titles related to Industrial Sewing Machine Operator jobs in California?

For Industrial Sewing Machine Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Industrial Sewing Machine Operator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Industrial Sewing Machine Operator jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Industrial Sewing Machine Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Industrial Sewing Machine Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Industrial Sewing Machine Operator jobs in CA?

For Industrial Sewing Machine Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Industrial Sewing Machine Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,339 per year, or $16 per hour.

Sewing Machine Operator & Repair Specialist

LION Group

Westminster, CA โ€ข On-site

$23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Looking for a job with a purpose? Want to make a real difference in the world?
LION TotalCare is the leader in Firefighter PPE cleaning and repair maintenance. Our NFPA-certified services help enhance firefighter safety and save Fire Departments money by extending the life of their PPE.
Join us to help protect our Firefighters!
Benefits of Working with Us!
  • Competitive Salary
  • Health & Dental Benefits
  • Vision Care Benefits
  • Life & Disability Insurance
  • 401K Plan
  • Education Reimbursement Program
  • Company Events and More!

LION is an international company that operates in three markets: the emergency services, military and civilian agency uniforms, and personal equipment markets. LION serves a global customer base of fire departments, military installations, institutions, corporate organizations, and training companies from multiple offices around the world.
Learn more about LION TotalCare here: https://www.lionprotects.com/totalcare
JOB SUMMARY - Sewing Machine Operator & Repair Specialist
As a Sewing Machine Operator & Repair Specialist, you will be performing repairs to firefighter gear to meet our customer specifications and expectations. You will ensure high levels of customer satisfaction, efficient service delivery, and maintain high-quality standards. You can help save lives.
Position Details:
Location: 7684 West Garden Grove Blvd., Westminster, CA, 92683
Hours: Monday to Friday 7:00 am - 3:30 pm. Must be flexible and willing to work overtime when needed to meet client needs.
Reports to: TotalCare Center Manager
Starting Rate: $21.00 - $23.00 per hour
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
  • Operate a sewing machine. Single, double, or multi-needle serger.
  • Sew repairs to gear in accordance with company best practices.
  • Prepare machine by changing needles and thread, and oiling and changing bobbin. Mount sewing machine attachments like needles, threads, pattern plates, and adjust machine guides according to repair needs.
  • Meet delivery deadlines by working with the team to ensure firefighter gear is repaired on time and meets our high quality standards.
  • Maintain cleanliness and good housekeeping in sewing area.
  • Other duties as needed.

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Works well with other production associates.
  • Must be able to follow instructions consistently with minimum supervision.
  • Must be able to sew and follow sewing standards.
  • Maintain a clean and safe work environment.
  • Must follow company rules and regulations.
  • Ability to multi-task.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE QUALIFICATIONS:
  • 1+ years of work experience with industrial sewing equipment.
  • Basic knowledge of sewing principles and garment construction.
  • Positive attitude and demonstrated ability to work well with a team.
  • Good attendance record.
  • Strong problem-solving skills.
  • Self-motivated and organized.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, time-sensitive environment and to meet all deadlines.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Standing, sitting, walking, bending as needed.
  • Using proper lifting technique may be required to lift objects up to 30 lbs.

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.