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Overlock Sewing Machine Operator Jobs in California

511 Inc

Sample Maker

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

... operating industrial sewing equipment, including: * Single- and double-needle lockstitch * Overlock / Merrow * Coverstitch * Chainstitch * Flatlock * Buttonholer, button attach, and bartack machines

Direct Edge

Sewer & Finishing Associate

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$17 - $23/hr

You will be responsible for operating industrial sewing machines and ensuring high-quality finishes on all products, as well as handling packaging and shipping to meet our customer and company ...

Direct Edge

Sewer & Finishing Associate

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$17 - $23/hr

You will be responsible for operating industrial sewing machines and ensuring high-quality finishes on all products, as well as handling packaging and shipping to meet our customer and company ...

ABREGO LLC

Furniture Upholsterer

San Juan Capistrano, CA · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Strong sewing skills with experience operating a sewing machine. * Ability to assemble furniture and fabricate upholstery components accurately. * Knowledge of auto restoration processes is a plus ...

ABREGO LLC

Furniture Upholsterer

San Juan Capistrano, CA · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Strong sewing skills with experience operating a sewing machine. * Ability to assemble furniture and fabricate upholstery components accurately. * Knowledge of auto restoration processes is a plus ...

Wing Group

Heat Seam Sealer Operator

Arcata, CA · On-site

$20.50/hr

... operator, and as your skills advance there are opportunities for increases in salary! * We are ... In this role the machines that you will be utilizing are sewing machines, grommet punches, and a ...

Inflatable Solutions

Heat Seam Sealer Operator

Arcata, CA · On-site

$20.50/hr

... operator, and as your skills advance there are opportunities for increases in salary! * We are ... In this role the machines that you will be utilizing are sewing machines, grommet punches, and a ...

Inflatable Solutions

Heat Seam Sealer Operator

Arcata, CA · On-site

$20.50/hr

... operator, and as your skills advance there are opportunities for increases in salary! * We are ... In this role the machines that you will be utilizing are sewing machines, grommet punches, and a ...

NextDeavor Inc.

Production Assembler 1

Simi Valley, CA · On-site

$17.60 - $22/hr

Ability to read and follow safety rules, operating/manufacturing instructions, policies, and ... Sewing experience or willingness to learn industrial sewing machine operation * Troubleshooting ...

Kingz Kimonos

Production Assistant

San Diego, CA

$18 - $20/hr

... operator with daily production tasks. * Organize and prepare custom orders for embroidery and patch application. * Attach patches to kimonos using a sewing machine (training provided if needed)

Kingz Kimonos

Production Assistant

San Diego, CA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

... operator with daily production tasks. * Organize and prepare custom orders for embroidery and patch application. * Attach patches to kimonos using a sewing machine (training provided if needed)

Kingz Kimonos

Production Assistant

San Diego, CA

$18 - $20/hr

... operator with daily production tasks. * Organize and prepare custom orders for embroidery and patch application. * Attach patches to kimonos using a sewing machine (training provided if needed)

Kingz Kimonos

Production Assistant

San Diego, CA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

... operator with daily production tasks. * Organize and prepare custom orders for embroidery and patch application. * Attach patches to kimonos using a sewing machine (training provided if needed)

Quince

Embroidery Production Operator

Buena Park, CA

$22 - $23/hr

... seamstress / sewing work, among others. You will be placed based on your background and our ... Perform pre-shift machine readiness checks and daily cleaning, lubrication, and preventive ...

Quince

Embroidery Production Operator

Buena Park, CA · On-site

$22 - $23/hr

... sewing work, among others. You will be placed based on your background and our production needs ... Perform pre-shift machine readiness checks and daily cleaning, lubrication, and preventive ...

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All JobsOverlock Sewing Machine Operator JobsOverlock Sewing Machine Operator Jobs in California

Overlock Sewing Machine Operator information

What is the highest paying machine operator job?

Among machine operators, those working as CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machine operators or specialized manufacturing machine operators tend to have the highest salaries due to technical skill requirements and precision work. Overlock sewing machine operators generally earn less than these roles, with higher pay often linked to advanced skills, certifications, and experience in high-demand manufacturing sectors.

What are Overlock Sewing Machine Operators?

Overlock Sewing Machine Operators are skilled workers who operate specialized sewing machines called overlock or serger machines. These machines sew over the edge of one or two pieces of fabric for edging, hemming, or seaming in garment and textile production. Operators are responsible for setting up the machine, threading it properly, monitoring stitches, and ensuring finished seams meet quality standards. This role requires good hand-eye coordination, attention to detail, and knowledge of garment construction techniques.

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

AspectOverlock Sewing Machine OperatorSewing Machine Operator
CredentialsTypically requires basic sewing certifications or trainingSimilar certifications, often with additional garment construction skills
Work EnvironmentFactories, textile plants, apparel manufacturingGarment factories, upholstery, or textile production
Industry UsagePrimarily in apparel and textile manufacturingBroader, including apparel, upholstery, and industrial sewing
Job FocusOperating overlock/serger machines to finish edgesOperating various sewing machines for assembling products

In summary, Overlock Sewing Machine Operators specialize in using overlock or serger machines to finish fabric edges efficiently, often within textile and apparel factories. Sewing Machine Operators have a broader role, working with different sewing machines to assemble garments or products across various industries.

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

To thrive as an Overlock Sewing Machine Operator, you need strong manual dexterity, attention to detail, and experience in garment or textile manufacturing, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industrial overlock sewing machines and routine maintenance procedures is typically required. Reliability, focus, and effective communication help operators maintain quality and meet production targets. These skills ensure efficient, accurate sewing work, resulting in high-quality finished products and consistent output.

What is an overlock operator?

An overlock sewing machine operator is a worker who uses overlock machines to sew and finish the edges of fabric, preventing fraying and creating a professional look. This role requires knowledge of machine operation, fabric types, and safety procedures, often involving tasks like trimming excess fabric and maintaining the equipment.

How much do sewing machine operators make?

Sewing machine operators, including those who operate overlock sewing machines, typically earn a median hourly wage of around $14 to $17, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 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.

Which singer is best for heavy fabrics?

As an Overlock Sewing Machine Operator, selecting the right needle or thread type is crucial for heavy fabrics. Typically, a heavy-duty or denim needle and strong, durable thread are used to ensure proper stitching and seam strength on thick materials.

What are some common challenges Overlock Sewing Machine Operators face, and how can they be addressed?

Overlock Sewing Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent seam quality at high speeds, dealing with thread breakage, and managing the tension settings for different fabrics. To address these issues, operators should regularly clean and maintain their machines, stay attentive to thread and needle quality, and communicate closely with supervisors about persistent problems. Many workplaces offer on-the-job training and support from more experienced team members to help new operators quickly become proficient and resolve common issues.
What are popular job titles related to Overlock Sewing Machine Operator jobs in California? For Overlock Sewing Machine Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Overlock Sewing Machine Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Overlock Sewing Machine Operator jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Overlock Sewing Machine Operator jobs? Cities in California with the most Overlock Sewing Machine Operator job openings:
Overlock Sewing Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Overlock Sewing Machine Operator job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Temporary, and 67% Contract. Highlights an 18% Hybrid, and 82% Remote job distribution.

Sample Maker

511 Inc

Costa Mesa, CA • On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

Born in Yosemite, forged in Quantico and built for adventure. 5.11 is a purpose-driven lifestyle brand, rooted in performance, durability, and versatility. Since 1979, we’ve created gear and apparel for people who live life without limits, delivering gear and apparel that empower them to push boundaries every day.

We are seeking a highly skilled Sample Maker to support the development of technical apparel and soft goods from concept through execution. This role is responsible for cutting, sewing, and constructing high-quality samples that bring product designs to life.

You’ll collaborate closely with Patternmaking, Technical Design, Product Development, and Design teams to ensure accuracy, functionality, and construction excellence across a range of apparel and gear categories.

What You'll Do:

  • Cut, sew, and construct apparel, gear, and accessory samples from provided patterns

  • Partner cross-functionally to execute samples for fit sessions, design validation, and development milestones

  • Review pattern pieces for accuracy, feasibility, and proper industry markings

  • Prepare and position materials and trims for sewing with precision and efficiency

  • Identify construction challenges early and provide technical feedback and alternative solutions

  • Contribute expertise on materials, fabrication methods, finishes, and construction techniques

  • Manage and prioritize sample workload to meet seasonal calendars and deadlines

  • Estimate time, materials, and resources required for sample creation

  • Maintain detailed style histories and construction documentation

  • Inspect and measure finished samples to ensure conformance to specifications

  • Construct mock-ups and attach trims including zippers, buttons, hardware, fasteners, and specialty components

  • Maintain and troubleshoot industrial sewing and Foundry equipment

  • Perform basic machine maintenance and minor repairs

  • Track and maintain fabric and trim inventory

  • Support cross-functional and special projects aligned with company objectives

What You Bring:

  • 8+ years of professional experience in sample making and garment construction

  • Strong experience working with technical apparel, bags, and diverse fabrications

  • Proven expertise constructing outerwear, pants, and shirts

  • Experience with backpacks and bags preferred

  • Deep understanding of material behavior across thread types and needle selections

  • Ability to repair, alter, and troubleshoot construction issues

  • Proficiency operating industrial sewing equipment, including:

    • Single- and double-needle lockstitch

    • Overlock / Merrow

    • Coverstitch

    • Chainstitch

    • Flatlock

    • Buttonholer, button attach, and bartack machines

  • Skilled in using cutting tools such as rotary cutters, scissors, blades, and electric knives

  • Ability to mount machine attachments and adjust guides to meet construction specifications

  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a deadline-driven environment

Pay Range: $25.00-$28.00 per hour plus bonus based on experience

5.11 offers a best-in-class benefits program including: medical, dental and vision insurance; a 401(k) program with employer match; employer-paid basic life and AD&D insurance. Additionally, employees can choose from several voluntary benefits including: Hospital Indemnity/Accident insurance; Flexible Spending Account/Health Saving Account; Employee Assistance Program; Paid Time Off/Paid Holidays/Sick Time; Casual Dress Code; and Employee Discounts.

*If you are a regular full-time employee working at least 30 hours per week, you and your eligible dependents may participate in 5.11’s benefits program.*

You can find out what personal information we collect, correct any inaccuracies, or ask us to delete your personal information (with some exceptions). To check out our policy, click HERE. If you want to make a request about your personal data, CLICK HERE.

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