Overlock Sewing Machine Operator Jobs in Kentucky

Sewing Machine Operator

Company Background:

Fechheimer was founded in 1842 and is a proud member of the Berkshire Hathaway family of companies. Fechheimer Brothers Company is the premier uniform manufacturer servicing the military, federal, state, and local public safety service markets. Our uniforms represent the honor, respect, and pride reflective in public safety today and at Fechheimer we take pride in serving those who serve us.

Our goal is to bring to market premier products and programs through our two brands; Flying Cross® and Vertx® to continue our tradition of providing superior products & service through innovation and technology that continually meets and exceeds our customers’ expectations.

At Fechheimer, not only do we pride ourselves on our products and programs but on our company culture. We offer a comprehensive benefits package, a fun and relaxed work environment, and the opportunity for continued growth and learning.

Benefits Offered:

• Competitive Pay
• Vacation, Sick, and Personal Paid Time Off
• 10 Paid Holidays
• Health, Vision, and Dental Insurance
• FSA and HRA Accounts
• Long and Short-Term Disability

• Employer Paid Life Insurance and Voluntary Life Insurance
• Accidental and Critical Illness Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Paid Parental Leave
• Tuition Assistance
• 401(k) Plan with Employer Match

Pay Rate: Piece Rate, SMO are paid for each unit produced or task completed, rather than by the hour. Initial training rate of $15.00/hour during training with additional earning potential, starting at $17.00/hr (based on 100% productivity), once training period is complete.

Position Summary:

The Sewing Machine Operator is responsible for assembling tailored garments & uniform apparel, using high-speed industrial sewing equipment or performing manual tasks involved in the final details of our garments, with a focus on precision, quality, and productivity. This role operates in a unionized manufacturing environment and contributes to the production of high-quality, custom-fit apparel for the U.S. Military, Law Enforcement, Other “Blue Goods” (Fire, EMT, etc.), Government & Federal roles & positions. Operators are expected to meet performance standards and participate in ongoing training and skill development. Compensation is based on a piece-rate system tied to individual productivity performance.

Responsibilities:

In this role you will be required to… 

• Operate and learn to operate a variety of high-speed manual, automated and semi-automated industrial sewing machines (e.g., single/double needle, serger, programmable flatbeds).
• Learn and understand how to use a variety of materials and threads (e.g., cotton, rayon, polyester and wool or combination of fabric contents).
• Sew garment components with precision, ensuring alignment, pattern matching, and quality stitching at various stages of the garment constructions process.
• Continually participate in coaching and training on sewing techniques and garment styles to ensure both quality and efficiency in the production of our products.
• Read and interpret work orders, patterns, and tech packs, as you fit, alter, and make “made-to-measure” garments to the customer specifications and guidelines of each order.
• Monitor individual and overall plant productivity using digital screens and performance tracking systems.
• Collaborate with team members and supervisors to meet and exceed production goals.
• Perform basic machine maintenance and thread changes throughout the shift.
• Maintain a clean and organized workstation, while following all company safety protocols and quality standards.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Demonstrates a strong internal drive to exceed production goals, embracing a competitive mindset that thrives in a performance-based, piece-rate environment.
• Team-oriented, with the ability to establish and maintain good working relationships and perform daily tasks with minimal supervision.
• Proficient in operating industrial sewing machines, including single/double needle, serger, and programmable models.
• Detail-oriented with strong craftsmanship, ensuring clean seams, accurate alignment, and quality finishes.
• Able to read instructions and perform basic math for measurements, seam allowances, and pattern layouts.
• Works independently and follows directions, taking initiative to maintain workflow and quality.
• Manages time effectively to meet or exceed production goals in a fast-paced, piece-rate environment.
• Comfortable using technology to monitor productivity and performance metrics.
• Eager to learn new techniques and cross-train on various sewing equipment, styles, and finishes.
• Patient and persistent, maintaining focus and accuracy through repetitive tasks and production challenges.
• Resilient and adaptable, demonstrating determination to improve skills and overcome obstacles in pursuit of quality and efficiency.

Qualifications:

• Must be 18 years or older.
• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Sewing and hemming experience highly preferred.
• Experience in tailored garment production is a plus.
• This is a Union position governed by the applicable Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).

Physical Requirements:

• Positional: May be required to sit or stand for extended periods of time.  Must be able to grasp or manipulate small items for assembly. Lift 5 to 10 pounds periodically.
• Gross Mobility: Rare climbing, or crawling. Infrequent balancing, stooping, kneeling, or crouching. 
• Sensory: Rare tasting/smelling. Use of color vision. Occasional use of far visual acuity, depth perception, and field of vision. Frequent use of near and midrange visual acuity, and visual accommodation. Frequent to constant talking.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran.