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Sample Maker Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

511 Inc

Sample Maker

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

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 ...

M S International Inc.

Sample Maker

Orange, CA · On-site

$18.75 - $21.75/hr

The Sample Maker is responsible for fabricating a variety of natural stone materials, performing tasks such as sanding, polishing, and finishing to meet quality standards. This role emphasizes ...

Fourth Floor

Temporary Fashion Sample Maker

Gardena, CA · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

Our client, an apparel company known for making premium uniforms, is looking for a TEMPORARY Sample Maker to join their team on-site Gardena, CA ASAP! Responsibilities: * Must possess knowledge of ...

MS International

Sample Maker

Orange, CA

Hi! Im Mira, MSIs Intelligent Recruiting Assistant. You can ask me anything about our business, culture, team, and more. You can also ask me about open jobs. Id love to help you apply now! Click the ...

Romesco

Sample Job Posting

Chula Vista, CA · On-site

As a sales team member, you'll be on the fore-front to uncover the market potential through generating leads, understanding the account opportunity, qualifying and closing sales and more importantly ...

Romesco

Sample Job Posting

Chula Vista, CA · On-site

As a sales team member, you'll be on the fore-front to uncover the market potential through generating leads, understanding the account opportunity, qualifying and closing sales and more importantly ...

ALO

Senior Pattern Maker

Commerce, CA

$105K - $125K/yr

This role works closely with designers, technical designers, and sample makers to support product development from concept through production. Key Responsibilities * Create, modify, and grade ...

Futrell Solutions

Chip Maker

El Cajon, CA · On-site

This is a sample for a great job. We will pay you a lot of money, and shower you with jewels and praises. You will travel the world and kiss babies, and shake hands, and play golf. * Make clients ...

Just Panmaco Inc

DENIM PATTERN MAKER

Vernon, CA · On-site

$65K - $85K/yr

Responsibilities • Minimum 5-year experienced with knowledge. • Develop accurate sample and production patterns based on sketches from the Design Team. • Work closely with the Design Team to ...

Just Panmaco Inc

DENIM PATTERN MAKER

Vernon, CA · On-site

$65K - $85K/yr

Responsibilities • Minimum 5-year experienced with knowledge. • Develop accurate sample and production patterns based on sketches from the Design Team. • Work closely with the Design Team to ...

Apple

Model Maker - Finisher

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$22 - $27.25/hr

To Apply, submit your resume along with samples or a portfolio of relevant work. Strong hand finishing skills and experience with a wide range of materials and toolsStrong interpersonal and ...

Apple

Model Maker - Finisher

Cupertino, CA

$128K - $236K/yr

To Apply, submit your resume along with samples or a portfolio of relevant work.","responsibilities":"Perform high-quality cosmetic hand finishing and painting on appearance models Conduct detailed ...

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All JobsSample Maker JobsSample Maker Jobs in California

Sample Maker information

See California salary details

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How much do sample maker jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for sample maker in California is $17.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.43 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Sample Makers?

Sample Makers are skilled professionals who create prototypes or samples of products, typically in industries like fashion, manufacturing, or product design. They interpret design specifications, select appropriate materials, and construct sample items that serve as models for mass production. Their work is crucial for testing product concepts, refining designs, and ensuring quality before full-scale manufacturing begins. Sample Makers often collaborate closely with designers, engineers, and production teams to ensure the final product meets all requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by Sample Makers, and how can they be effectively managed?

Sample Makers often encounter challenges such as working with tight deadlines, adapting to last-minute design changes, and ensuring precise execution of prototypes. Managing these challenges requires strong attention to detail, effective communication with designers and production teams, and flexibility in problem-solving. Being proactive in requesting feedback and maintaining organized documentation can also help streamline the sample-making process and improve collaboration.

What jobs pay $400 an hour?

Sample Makers typically do not earn $400 an hour; such high rates are more common in specialized fields like high-level consultants, surgeons, or executive professionals. Some freelance or highly experienced specialists in niche industries may command such rates, especially with advanced skills, certifications, or in high-demand markets.

What Does a Sample Maker Do?

A sample maker most commonly works for a fashion company and tests a sample pattern on a piece of fabric before it goes into large-scale production. As a sample maker, your responsibilities include creating fabric samples for clothing or garment makers and sending these partial samples or prototypes for different apparel products to your supervisor or other technical directors. Other duties include ensuring that the technical aspect of the production is free of flaws and that garment factory owners clearly understand the directions for large-scale production of the patterns.

What is the difference between Sample Maker vs Pattern Maker?

AspectSample MakerPattern Maker
Primary RoleCreates physical prototypes or samples of garments based on design specifications.Develops and drafts patterns used to cut fabric for garment production.
Required SkillsSewing, fabric knowledge, and sample construction techniques.Pattern drafting, grading, and technical drawing skills.
Work EnvironmentSeamstress workshops, fashion studios, or sample rooms.Design studios, pattern departments, or technical design offices.
Industry UsageUsed in fashion, apparel, and costume design for creating prototypes.Used in apparel manufacturing, pattern development, and technical design.

The main difference between a Sample Maker and a Pattern Maker lies in their focus: Sample Makers build physical garment samples, while Pattern Makers develop the patterns used to produce those garments. Both roles are essential in the fashion industry, often working closely together to bring design concepts to life efficiently.

How to become a sample maker?

To become a sample maker, typically one needs a high school diploma or equivalent and experience in sewing, pattern making, or garment construction. Skills in using sewing machines, pattern drafting, and fabric knowledge are essential, and some roles may require training or certification in fashion design or related fields.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A sample maker typically does not earn $10,000 a month without specialized skills or experience. High earnings in manufacturing or craft-related roles may require advanced expertise, certifications, or working in high-end custom production environments. Most jobs paying this level of income generally demand significant skill, entrepreneurship, or working in high-demand industries without requiring a formal degree.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Sample Maker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Sample Maker, you need strong technical skills in pattern making, garment construction, and a solid understanding of textiles, usually supported by experience or vocational training in fashion or manufacturing. Familiarity with sewing machines, CAD software, and measuring tools is often required, along with knowledge of industry standards. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are essential soft skills for accurately interpreting design specifications and collaborating with designers. These skills ensure the creation of high-quality prototypes that meet design intent and production requirements.

How much does a sample maker make?

A sample maker's salary varies depending on experience, location, and industry, but typically ranges from $25,000 to $60,000 annually. Skilled sample makers with specialized tools or certifications may earn higher wages, especially in fashion or manufacturing environments where precision is important.
More about Sample Maker jobs
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Sample Maker jobs near you

Sample Maker

511 Inc

Costa Mesa, CA • On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 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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