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Sewing Machine Operator Lead Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sewing Machine Operator I

Yankton, SD · On-site

$14 - $16.75/hr

Great people skills Sewing Machine Operator - Lead Position Responsibilities: * Must meet all level 1 requirements * Must meet all level 2 requirements * Must meet all level 3 requirements * Exhibits ...

Sewing Machine Operator

Easley, SC · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

In this Sewing Machine Operator role, you will be responsible for the operation of two types of sewing machines. Apply today if you meet the qualifications listed below. In a Sewing Machine Operator ...

Sewing Machine Operator

Lenexa, KS · On-site

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

Now Hiring Sewing Machine Operators for 1st shift Sewing Machine Operator Summary: The Sewing Machine Operator position is responsible for operating industrial sewing machines to complete hanging ...

Sewing Machine Operator

Lenexa, KS · On-site

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

Now Hiring Sewing Machine Operators for 1st shift Sewing Machine Operator Summary: The Sewing Machine Operator position is responsible for operating industrial sewing machines to complete hanging ...

Sewing Machine Operator

Piedmont, SC

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

In this Sewing Machine Operator job, you will be responsible for operating a sewing machine to manufacture pet beds and pet products. Apply today if you meet the qualifications listed below. In a ...

Sewing Machine Operator

Waterloo, NY · On-site

$16 - $16.50/hr

Join our team as a Sewing Machine Operator and help create high-quality textile products that support meaningful outcomes for our customers and community. As a Sewing Machine Operator, you'll work ...

Sewing Machine Operator

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

STAR is currently seeking a Sewing Machine Operator. Continuous growth has created an opportunity in our Minneapolis office, and we are looking for the right person to join our team! If you have ...

Sewing Machine Operator

Waterloo, NY · On-site

$16 - $16.50/hr

Join our team as a Sewing Machine Operator and help create high-quality textile products that support meaningful outcomes for our customers and community.As a Sewing Machine Operator, you'll work ...

Sewing Machine Operator

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

STAR is currently seeking a Sewing Machine Operator. Continuous growth has created an opportunity in our Minneapolis office, and we are looking for the right person to join our team! If you have ...

Sewing Machine Operator

Johnstown, PA · On-site

$12.50 - $15/hr

Sewing Machine Operator * On-Site * Full-Time * Health Benefits: Comprehensive coverage with company-paid premiums for medical/dental/vison coverage. * PTO * Flexible Work Schedules * 401k * **We ...

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Sewing Machine Operator Lead information

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

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for sewing machine operator lead in the United States is $16.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a sewing machine operator lead?

Sewing Machine Operator Leads are experienced professionals who oversee and coordinate the work of sewing machine operators in manufacturing or production settings. They ensure that production targets, quality standards, and safety protocols are met while providing guidance and training to team members. In addition to operating sewing machines themselves, they are responsible for monitoring workflow, troubleshooting issues, and communicating with supervisors or management about progress and concerns. Their leadership helps maintain efficiency and high-quality output on the production floor.

What are the key responsibilities of a sewing machine operator lead?

As a Sewing Machine Operator Lead, you are responsible not only for operating sewing machines but also for overseeing the daily workflow of a team of operators. This includes assigning tasks, monitoring production quality, providing on-the-job training, and troubleshooting equipment issues as they arise. Additionally, you act as a liaison between the production team and management, ensuring that team members adhere to safety protocols and meet production deadlines. Strong communication and organizational skills are essential, as you help maintain a positive, efficient work environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a sewing machine operator lead?

To thrive as a Sewing Machine Operator Lead, you need advanced garment construction skills, a strong understanding of textile materials, and prior experience in industrial sewing, often supported by a high school diploma or vocational training. Familiarity with various industrial sewing machines, production management software, and quality control tools is typically required. Leadership, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for coordinating teams and ensuring high production standards. These abilities are essential for maintaining efficiency, product quality, and smooth workflow in manufacturing environments.

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

AspectSewing Machine Operator LeadSewing Machine Operator
CredentialsTypically requires experience and sometimes supervisory trainingRequires basic sewing machine operation skills, certifications vary
Work EnvironmentSupervises team, oversees production processesOperates sewing machines on production line
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in manufacturing, apparel, and textile industries with team leadership rolesCommon in garment factories, upholstery, and textile production

The main difference is that the Sewing Machine Operator Lead supervises and coordinates sewing staff, ensuring quality and efficiency, while the Sewing Machine Operator focuses on operating machines to produce goods. The lead role involves additional responsibilities like training and overseeing workflow, whereas the operator primarily handles sewing tasks.

How much do sewing machine operators lead make in the US?

Sewing machine operator leads typically earn around $15 to $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the production environment. They often oversee a team of operators, ensuring quality and efficiency on the manufacturing floor.

What cities are hiring for Sewing Machine Operator Lead jobs?

Cities with the most Sewing Machine Operator Lead job openings:

What states have the most Sewing Machine Operator Lead jobs?

States with the most job openings for Sewing Machine Operator Lead jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Sewing Machine Operator Lead jobs?

For Sewing Machine Operator Lead jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Sewing Machine Operator Lead job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,781 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

Sewing Machine Operator I

Yankton, SD • On-site

SHUR-CO
Trucking • 201 - 500 employees

$14 - $16.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Job Summary:
Operate sewing machine to join, gather, hem, reinforce, or decorate articles by performing the following duties.


Sewing Machine Operator I – Entry Level
Responsibilities:

  • Place spool of thread on spindle of machine and draw thread through machine guides, tension, and eye of needle.
  • Insert bobbin into shuttle and draw thread through slot in shuttle wall, or draw thread through guide and looper eye.
  • Press knee lever, depress pedal, or move hand lever to raise presser foot or spread feed cups.
  • Position parts to be joined under presser foot and needle and lower presser foot.
  • Start, stop, and control speed of machine with pedal or knee lever.
  • Guide parts under needle following edges, seams, guides on machine bed or markings on part.
  • Observe stitching to detect defects and notify supervisor or Sewing Machine Repairer when defects are caused by machine malfunction.
  • Select sewing supplies such as binding, braid, cord, piping, tape, thread, welt, velcro or rope, according to specifications or color of material.
  • Cut excess thread or material. Oil machine.
  • Can read and understand work orders, sales orders, and drawings.
  • Trained on 1 style of sewing machine

Sewing Machine Operator II – Skilled Level
Responsibilities:

  • Must meet all level 1 requirements
  • Trained on 2 styles of sewing machine

Sewing Machine Operator III – Advanced Level
Responsibilities:

  • Must meet all level 1 requirements
  • Must meet all level 2 requirements
  • Trained on all types of sewing machines
  • Helps with special sewing projects
  • Works closely with engineering for sewing specs.
  • Comfortable giving direction and or leading Peers.
  • Shows interest in learning additional skills.
  • Shows good decision-making skills without supervision.
  • Great people skills

Sewing Machine Operator – Lead Position
Responsibilities:

  • Must meet all level 1 requirements
  • Must meet all level 2 requirements
  • Must meet all level 3 requirements
  • Exhibits strong potential for advancement into a leadership role within the company. Possesses at least 4 of the below skills and has the ability to be trained/coached in further leadership skills. Skill set includes:
    • Clear and Direct Communication: They consistently communicate instructions and information effectively, ensuring team clarity.
    • Active Listening: They demonstrate openness to feedback and make efforts to incorporate suggestions, fostering continuous improvement.
    • Problem-Solving and Decision-Making: They think quickly and critically to resolve unexpected issues and make sound decisions under pressure.
    • Technical Expertise: They possess a solid understanding of the manufacturing processes within their department, enabling them to provide informed guidance.
    • Team Trust and Influence: They have built trust among their peers, which is essential for motivating and leading teams. 
    • Proactive Time Management: They manage their tasks efficiently and take initiative by seeking additional work when their responsibilities are complete.
    • Safety Awareness: They consistently prioritize and promote a safe working environment.
    • Quality Focus: They ensure that standards are consistently met, maintaining high product and process quality.
    • Ability and willingness to cross train department employees and new employees.

QUALIFICATIONS 

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong attendance and dependability by consistently reporting to work on time and completing assigned tasks accurately. They must be able to maintain a clean and organized work environment, follow all company policies and procedures, and apply a high level of attention to detail and focus. The ability to work collaboratively with team members to support productivity and operational efficiency is also essential.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

High school diploma or general education degree (GED); or one to three months related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

LANGUAGE SKILLS

  • Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos.

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS

  • Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals.

REASONING ABILITY

  • Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES

Must be able to pass forklift certification test and drive a forklift.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS 

The physical demands 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.

  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear.
  • The employee frequently is required to climb or balance and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. 
  • The employee is occasionally required to sit. 
  • The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 30 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move more than 50 pounds. 
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT 

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts.
  • The employee is occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions; high, precarious places; and vibration. 

SAFETY

Follow all safety directives and protocols at all times and help identify potential hazards or violations that should be addressed to ensure personnel and facility safety are maintained. 

QUALITY

Along with every other member of our team, always be cognizant of overall performance in every aspect of our business and help maintain a constant focus on quality assurance and continuous quality improvement. 

Other Duties as Assigned:

This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. The employee may be required to perform other related duties to meet the ongoing needs of the organization. Shur-Co LLC is an equal opportunity employer and encourages candidates of all backgrounds to apply.