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Sewing Machine Operator Lead Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

As a Machine Operator in our Sewing Department, you play a vital role in bringing our products to life. You will not just be operating a sewing machine. You will be helping create high-quality ...

Sewing Apprentice

MO · On-site

$17.25/hr

This position is designed as a training path into a Machine Operator: Sewing role, with the opportunity to advance after demonstrating consistent performance and sewing efficiency. WHY THIS ROLE ...

Sewing Apprentice

Union, MO · On-site

$17.25/hr

This position is designed as a training path into a Machine Operator: Sewing role, with the opportunity to advance after demonstrating consistent performance and sewing efficiency.WHY THIS ROLE ...

Sewing Apprentice

Union, MO · On-site

$17.25/hr

This position is designed as a training path into a Machine Operator: Sewing role, with the opportunity to advance after demonstrating consistent performance and sewing efficiency. WHY THIS ROLE ...

Sewing Operator

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

Activates and adjusts machine controls to regulate stitching speed and length, dimensions of gathers and tucks, and material or thread tension. * Activates sewing machine to join, gather, hem ...

Sewing Support Specialist

MO · On-site

$17.25/hr

In this hands-on manufacturing role, you'll support sewing machine operators by preparing materials, moving completed work, and helping maintain a steady production flow. This role is physically ...

Sewing Support Specialist

Union, MO · On-site

$13.50 - $16.25/hr

In this hands-on manufacturing role, you'll support sewing machine operators by preparing materials, moving completed work, and helping maintain a steady production flow. This role is physically ...

Sewing Technician

Union, MO · On-site

$13.50 - $16.25/hr

They will create each product by setting up and operating an industrial sewing machine in accordance with work order assignments. Responsibilities and Duties: * Measuring, cutting, marking, and ...

Sewing Technician

Eureka, MO · On-site

$12.75 - $15.25/hr

They will create each product by setting up and operating an industrial sewing machine in accordance with work order assignments. Responsibilities and Duties: * Measuring, cutting, marking, and ...

Sewing Technician

Eureka, MO · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

They will create each product by setting up and operating an industrial sewing machine in accordance with work order assignments. Responsibilities and Duties: * Measuring, cutting, marking, and ...

Sewing Technician

MO · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

They will create each product by setting up and operating an industrial sewing machine in accordance with work order assignments. Responsibilities and Duties: * Measuring, cutting, marking, and ...

$12.50 - $15/hr

They will create each product by setting up and operating an industrial sewing machine in accordance with work order assignments. Responsibilities and Duties: * Measuring, cutting, marking, and ...

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Sewing Machine Operator Lead information

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 in Missouri are hiring for Sewing Machine Operator Lead jobs?

Cities in Missouri with the most Sewing Machine Operator Lead job openings:

Infographic showing various Sewing Machine Operator Lead job openings in Missouri as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

Sewing Machine Operators (1st Shift)

MO • On-site

Children's Factory
Wholesale • 51 - 200 employees

$18.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Sewing Machine Operator
SCHEDULE: Monday-Friday 6:30 AM - 3:00 PM (Overtime may required during busy season, including some Saturdays)
PAY FREQUENCY: Weekly Pay
SALARY: Starting $18.25, with increases based on skill and efficiency attainment
ABOUT THE ROLE:
If you take pride in precision, enjoy working with your hands, and love seeing a product come together because of your skill and focus, this role is for you.
As a Machine Operator in our Sewing Department, you play a vital role in bringing our products to life. You will not just be operating a sewing machine. You will be helping create high-quality products that support children's learning and development. Every stitch matters. Every detail counts. Your craftsmanship directly impacts the final product our customers receive.
This is a hands-on manufacturing role for someone who is already comfortable using sewing machines and enjoys producing accurate, consistent work.
You do not need previous manufacturing sewing experience. However, you must have intermediate sewing skills developed through regular experience with home sewing, quilting, alterations, embroidery, costume making, upholstery, or similar projects. Experience operating industrial sewing machines is preferred.
WHY THIS ROLE MATTERS:
The quality of each finished product depends on accurate sewing, consistent workmanship, and close attention to detail. In this role, your sewing skills directly support production goals and help ensure that products meet established quality standards.
You will work as part of a production team where safety, reliability, teamwork, and continuous improvement are important to daily success.
WHAT YOU'LL DO:
  • Operate industrial sewing machines to assemble fabric pieces according to patterns, sew notes, measurements, and product specifications.
  • Maintain consistent seams, stitch quality, fabric alignment, and finished-product accuracy.
  • Thread machines, wind and replace bobbins, and change needles and thread.
  • Identify common sewing issues such as thread breaks, skipped stitches, uneven seams, fabric shifting, or tension problems.
  • Perform basic machine adjustments and notify the appropriate team member when additional support is needed.
  • Inspect work throughout the sewing process to ensure products meet quality requirements.
  • Learn department-specific sewing methods, machine settings, and production procedures.
  • Work toward and maintain the department's sewing efficiency expectations.
  • Perform routine cleaning and basic care of sewing equipment as instructed.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
  • Collaborate with team members and supervisors to meet daily production goals.
  • Follow company expectations related to safety, quality, productivity, and attendance.

ABOUT YOU:
You are someone who values quality, works well on a team, and takes ownership of your performance. You are dependable, focused, and ready to contribute to a production environment where your work truly matters.
What You Bring:
  • You have intermediate sewing skills and regular hands-on experience operating a sewing machine.
  • Your sewing experience may come from home sewing, quilting, alterations, embroidery, costume making, upholstery, or similar work.
  • You are comfortable independently threading a machine, managing bobbins, changing needles, guiding fabric, and maintaining consistent seams.
  • You can follow patterns, written instructions, measurements, sew notes, and verbal directions.
  • You have strong attention to detail and take pride in producing accurate, consistent work.
  • You are willing to learn industrial sewing equipment and production methods.
  • You can work effectively as part of a team and respond positively to coaching.
  • You can maintain reliable attendance and arrive prepared for scheduled shifts.
  • You have a high school diploma or equivalent.
  • Previous industrial sewing or manufacturing experience is preferred but not required.

PHYSICAL AND WORK ENVIRONMENT EXPECTATIONS:
  • Ability to stand and walk for extended periods
  • Frequent bending, stooping, and reaching
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 25 lbs
  • Comfortable working in a fast-paced manufacturing environment with moving machinery and moderate noise levels
  • Manual dexterity and visual focus for inspecting products and operating equipment

Safety is our top priority. We provide the necessary personal protective equipment and training to ensure a safe working environment.
WHY JOIN US:
  • Be Part of a Dynamic, Supportive Team: We value collaboration and celebrate success together.
  • Grow Your Career: We support professional development and offer opportunities to expand your skills.
  • Make an Impact: Your work will contribute to making a difference in the lives of children, educators, and parents around the world by supporting the financial health of a company that creates innovative and educational products that inspire learning and creativity.
  • Enjoy Competitive Benefits, Including:
    • 12 Paid Holidays: Including Christmas Eve and the Day After Thanksgiving so you can enjoy more time with family.
    • Generous PTO Accrual: Because work-life balance matters.
    • Paid Parental Leave: Support for growing families.
    • Volunteer Time Off: Give back to the community while getting paid.
    • Generous 401(k) Company Match: Helping you plan for your future.
    • Educational Assistance: Invest in your career growth with tuition reimbursement.
    • Comprehensive Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision coverage starting the first of the month following your date of hire.

WHO WE ARE
At Children's Factory, we create inspired spaces for imagination and learning. For over 40 years, we've been a leading manufacturer and distributor of high-quality products for child development centers, preschools, and elementary education.
Simply put- We provide GROWN UPS with the products and resources KIDS need to inspire imagination, build confidence, and develop lifelong learning skills. We do more than just make great products. We make a positive impact on the lives of the children and educators who use them.
Each and every member of our team plays a pivotal role in helping children all over the world thrive and discover their full potential. We are looking for problem solvers, difference makers, and challenge takers. People who share our passion for education, and who want to make a difference in the world.
Children's Factory is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer
Children's Factory is an Excelligence Company. Excelligence is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees, employment applicants and other covered persons without regard to unlawful considerations of race, color, religion or creed, gender, sex, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin or ancestry, ethnicity, citizenship status, genetic information, military or veteran status, age, physical or mental disability, or any other classification protected by applicable local, state, or federal laws.