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Industrial Sewing Machine Operator Jobs in Tennessee

Tom James Company

Sewing Machine Operator

Lafayette, TN · On-site

$13.50 - $16.25/hr

The Sewing Machine Operator is responsible for operating industrial sewing machines to construct custom dress shirts according to customer specifications, patterns, work instructions, quality ...

Tom James Company

Sewing Machine Operator

Lafayette, TN

$13.50 - $16.25/hr

The Sewing Machine Operator is responsible for operating industrial sewing machines to construct custom dress shirts according to customer specifications, patterns, work instructions, quality ...

Ashley Sling

Fabricator, Synthetics Sewing

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$21 - $22/hr

Objectives of this role A Industrial Sewing Machine Operator (Fabricator, Synthetics) is responsible for sewing web slings used in overhead lifting applications. Your primary focus will be operating ...

Ashley Sling

Fabricator, Synthetics Sewing

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$13.25 - $16/hr

Objectives of this role A Industrial Sewing Machine Operator (Fabricator, Synthetics) is responsible for sewing web slings used in overhead lifting applications. Your primary focus will be operating ...

Aerotek

Sewing Machine Mechanic

Dunlap, TN · On-site

$52K - $62K/yr

Ability to perform maintenance on industrial sewing machines Additional Skills & Qualifications * Experience with preventive maintenance procedures * Familiarity with industrial sewing operations

Wise Staffing Group

Industrial Sewers

Madison, TN

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

MADISON, TN 1st SHIFT you'll utilize your expertise in operating industrial sewing machines to fabricate and assemble various textile products. From garments to upholstery, your keen eye for detail ...

Workwear

Special Sewing Operator

Whites Creek, TN · On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

SEWING EXPERIENCE PREFERRED. * Must observe to the attendance policy. * Good attention to detail. * Write, read, and speak English. * Must be able to read and understand option codes on Ready Service ...

Express Employment Professionals

Be Seen First

Machine Operator

Smyrna, TN · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

We're hiring Machine Operators to join a growing manufacturing team. This position involves ... industrial, and office services positions.

SomethingInked

Embroiderer

Nashville, TN · On-site

... Industrial Embroidery Machine Operator to join our team in Nashville, TN office. They will be responsible for service of our customers as a member of our Embroidery team with a focus on sewing ...

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Industrial Sewing Machine Operator information

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$8

$14

$19

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

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for industrial sewing machine operator in Tennessee is $14.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.08 and $15.72 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 Tennessee?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Industrial Sewing Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Industrial Sewing Machine Operator job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $30,660 per year, or $14.7 per hour.

Sewing Machine Operator

Lafayette, TN • On-site

Tom James Company

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

36th of 62 rated fashion and textile manufacturers

People enjoy working here

Paid breaks

Respectful managers

Learn more about Tom James Companyexternal

$13.50 - $16.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

For over 20 years, Measure Up has produced finely crafted custom dress shirts combining expert construction with fabrics sourced from the world's most exclusive mills. Each shirt is hand made in the foothills of Tennessee, one at a time, by America's most skilled sewing operators.
We are seeking an entry-level Sewing Machine Operator to join our team at our factory in Lafayette, TN. We desire a highly motivated and results-oriented individual with great organizational skills. Qualified applicants must demonstrate the ability to learn quickly. No Experience Required - We Train!
The Sewing Machine Operator is responsible for operating industrial sewing machines to construct custom dress shirts according to customer specifications, patterns, work instructions, quality standards, and production requirements. The operator must produce garments efficiently while maintaining consistent quality, accuracy, and proper workmanship.
Job Duties
Sewing Machine Operation
  • Operate assigned industrial sewing machines safely and efficiently.
  • Operate machines used for various shirt construction operations, including single-needle, overlock, coverstitch, buttonhole, button sewing, and other specialized equipment as assigned.
  • Set up and adjust machine settings as necessary for the operation being performed.
  • Select and use the correct thread, needle, presser foot, attachments, and machine settings for the assigned operation.
  • Monitor machine operation and make minor adjustments when necessary.
  • Keep the sewing machine clean and properly maintained according to company procedures.
  • Report machine malfunctions, unusual noises, broken parts, or maintenance concerns to the appropriate supervisor.

Garment Construction
  • Sew shirt components according to established production procedures and customer specifications
  • Follow approved sewing methods and construction specifications for each garment.
  • Maintain proper seam allowances and stitch placement
  • Ensure seams are straight, even, secure, and properly aligned
  • Maintain proper stitch length, tension, and appearance
  • Ensure fabric is properly positioned and fed through the machine to prevent stretching, puckering, twisting, or distortion
  • Prevent defective work from moving to the next production operation
  • Notify the supervisor when materials, patterns, specifications, or components appear incorrect

Custom Garment Specifications
  • Carefully follow individual customer measurements and specifications when applicable
  • Verify that the correct materials, components, sizes, and construction instructions are being used
  • Pay close attention to special instructions for individual or custom orders

Required Skills and Qualifications
  • Ability to follow written and verbal instructions
  • Ability to recognize sewing and construction defects
  • Strong attention to detail
  • Ability to maintain consistent production and quality
  • Ability to work with different fabrics, styles and garment components
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a production team
  • Willingness to learn new operations and sewing techniquis

Physical requirements:
  • Ability to sit or stand for extended periods while performing sewing operations
  • Ability to use hands and fingers repetitively
  • Ability to coordinate hand, eye, and foot movements while operating sewing equipment
  • Ability to visually inspect seams and garment components for defects
  • Ability to repeatedly handle fabric, garment panels, and completed garments
  • Ability to lift and move garment bundles or materials within company-established limits
  • Ability to perform repetitive movements associated with sewing operations

Why this is a great opportunity:
  • Group medical including vision
  • Dental
  • Life insurance
  • 10 Holidays
  • 2 week summer vacation shutdown
  • 1 week Christmas vacation shutdown
  • Pension
  • Incentives
  • $500 sign-on bonus

Interested candidates should apply online or in-person at our Freeman Street location.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.

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