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Sewing Machine Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Total Safety

Sewing Machine Operator

Fairfield, CA · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Home or professional sewing machine experience * Ability to work independently * Ability to make ... engineered systems design, and materials management. Total Safety is proud to be an Equal ...

Total Safety Us

Sewing Machine Operator

Fairfield, CA

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Home or professional sewing machine experience * Ability to work independently * Ability to make ... engineered systems design, and materials management. Total Safety is proud to be an Equal ...

Hydrogen Group

Automotive Trimmer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$32 - $37/hr

Proficiency operating industrial sewing machines and related upholstery equipment (cutters, skivers ... engineering, quality, and production teams. * Strong communication skills in a team-based ...

Exemplis

Technical Pattern Developer Sr

Buena Park, CA

$93K - $140K/yr

Collaborate with Engineering & Design to refine foam shapes & densities for optimal fit, comfort ... Proficiency in industrial sewing machines, upholstery tools, & prototyping equipment * Advanced ...

Exemplis

Technical Pattern Developer Sr

Cypress, CA

$93K - $140K/yr

Collaborate with Engineering & Design to refine foam shapes & densities for optimal fit, comfort ... Proficiency in industrial sewing machines, upholstery tools, & prototyping equipment * Advanced ...

Exemplis LLC

Technical Pattern Developer Sr

Buena Park, CA · On-site

$93K - $140K/yr

Collaborate with Engineering & Design to refine foam shapes & densities for optimal fit, comfort ... Proficiency in industrial sewing machines, upholstery tools, & prototyping equipment * Advanced ...

Rivian

Sr. Mechanical Engineer, Seat Soft Trim

Irvine, CA · On-site

$107K - $134K/yr

Operate sewing and cutting machines to validate trim design proposals/validations within the lab ... Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field * Demonstrated ability to manage trim pattern ...

Rivian

Sr. Mechanical Engineer, Seat Soft Trim

Irvine, CA · On-site

$107K - $134K/yr

Operate sewing and cutting machines to validate trim design proposals/validations within the lab ... Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field * Demonstrated ability to manage trim pattern ...

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Sewing Machine Engineer information

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How much do sewing machine engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for sewing machine engineer 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 are the 7 common sewing machine troubles?

Common sewing machine troubles for a Sewing Machine Engineer include thread bunching or tangling, skipped stitches, uneven stitching, machine jamming or sticking, tension issues, needle breakage, and power or motor problems. Troubleshooting these issues often involves checking the threading, needle condition, tension settings, and cleaning the machine regularly. Proper maintenance and understanding of machine components are essential for efficient operation.

What is the hourly rate for sewing?

For a sewing machine engineer, the hourly rate can vary depending on experience, location, and employer, but typically ranges from $20 to $40 per hour. Skilled technicians with specialized knowledge of sewing machinery may earn higher rates, especially if working in industrial settings or with advanced equipment.

What is the difference between Sewing Machine Engineer vs Textile Technician?

AspectSewing Machine EngineerTextile Technician
CredentialsTechnical certifications, engineering degreesDiploma or degree in textiles or related field
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, repair workshopsTextile factories, research labs
Industry UsageDesign, repair, and maintain sewing machinesDevelop and improve textile processes
Common Search IntentRepair, maintenance, technical supportTextile production, process optimization

The main difference is that Sewing Machine Engineers focus on the technical aspects of sewing machine design, repair, and maintenance, often working in manufacturing or repair shops. Textile Technicians, on the other hand, work on textile production processes and material development. Both roles require technical knowledge but serve different functions within the textile industry.

Which singer is best for heavy fabrics?

A sewing machine engineer should recommend heavy-duty sewing machines with strong motors and durable components for heavy fabrics. Brands like Singer offer models such as the Singer Heavy Duty series, which are designed to handle thick materials like denim, leather, and canvas efficiently. Proper needle selection and machine maintenance are also essential for sewing heavy fabrics effectively.

Can I make a career out of sewing?

A sewing machine engineer can build a career by maintaining, repairing, and designing sewing machines, often working in manufacturing, repair shops, or as independent technicians. Developing technical skills, certifications, and knowledge of machinery and electronics can enhance career prospects in this field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Sewing Machine Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Sewing Machine Engineer, you need strong mechanical aptitude, problem-solving skills, and a background in engineering or relevant technical training. Familiarity with industrial sewing machines, diagnostic tools, and maintenance software is typically required, along with certifications in mechanical or electrical engineering being advantageous. Attention to detail, effective communication, and adaptability are key soft skills for excelling in troubleshooting and collaborating with operators. These capabilities are crucial for ensuring machinery runs efficiently, minimizing downtime, and supporting high-quality textile production.

What are some common challenges faced by Sewing Machine Engineers in a manufacturing environment?

Sewing Machine Engineers often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting complex mechanical issues under tight production deadlines and adapting to different brands or models of machines. They must also ensure machines are optimized for both speed and quality, which can involve precise adjustments and preventive maintenance. Collaboration with production staff is key, as engineers frequently train operators and respond quickly to minimize downtime. Staying current with the latest technology and best practices is important for long-term success in this role.

What does a Sewing Machine Engineer do?

A Sewing Machine Engineer is responsible for installing, maintaining, repairing, and servicing various types of sewing machines used in textile and garment manufacturing. They troubleshoot mechanical and electronic issues, perform routine maintenance to ensure optimal machine performance, and may also train operators on proper machine usage. Their expertise helps minimize downtime and ensures the efficiency and quality of production lines.
What are popular job titles related to Sewing Machine Engineer jobs in California? For Sewing Machine Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Sewing Machine Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Sewing Machine Engineer jobs in California are:
Sewing Machine Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sewing Machine Engineer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 20% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 40% Contract, and 20% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,339 per year, or $16 per hour.

Sewing Machine Operator

S & S Tool and Supply Inc.

Fairfield, CA

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Position summary: Provide quality sewing needs and complete customer orders as needed.

General purpose: Timely orders; customer satisfaction

Role qualifications:

  • Good communication skills
  • Home or professional sewing machine experience
  • Ability to work independently
  • Ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and wrists
  • Ability to pass drug and alcohol test

Position responsibilities:

  • Attention to detailed work order instructions
  • Monitor sewing machine operation to spot problems such as defective stitching, thread breaks, or machine malfunctions
  • Inspect garments to spot manufacturer defects so not to send out defective clothing
  • Select sewing supplies like threads in accordance with job requirements
  • Mount sewing machine attachments like needles and threads.

Essential skills and experience:

  • High organizational skills to sort
  • High mechanical dexterity to operate sewing machines
  • Good command of the English language, both verbal and written
  • Able to repeat same tasks
  • Able to be very exact and highly accurate with spelling of names

Nonessential skills and experience:

  • Previous sewing machine operation experience

Reporting to this position: None

Physical demands and work environment: The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Physical demands: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to sit long periods of time; stand; bend; considerable use of the arms and legs, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; balance; stoop; talk or hear. The employee must occasionally lift up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
  • Work environment: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is exposed to potential hazards using needle and sewing machine operation. The noise level in the work environment is usually minimal.

About Total Safety:

Total Safety is the world's premier provider of integrated safety and compliance services and the products necessary to support them, including gas detection, respiratory protection, safety training, fire protection, compliance and inspection, comprehensive flare services, industrial hygiene, onsite emergency medical treatment/paramedics, communications systems, engineered systems design, and materials management.

Total Safety is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and will not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status or any other protected status.

If you require special assistance or accommodation while seeking employment with Total Safety, please contact Human Resources at (713) 353-5152. (For telecommunications device for the hearing impaired – TTY, please contact 711).

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