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Sewing Machine Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Outdoor Research LLC

Sewing Lead

Chino, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

What you will do • Provide Training, guidance, and technical support to sewing operators to ... Conduct and document training on sewing machines, equipment, and manufacturing processes to promote ...

Smiths Machine

Machine Operator

Escondido, CA

$18 - $21/hr

Machine Operator l Schedule : Shift 1: Mon-Thurs, 4:30am-3pm Pay Range: $18-21/hour depending on technical abilities Why Join Us? * Entry point into precision machining and manufacturing careers

ARUNDEL MACHINE

Machine Operator

Escondido, CA

$21/hr

Machine Operator l Schedule : Shift 1: Mon-Thurs, 4:30am-3pm Pay Range: $18-21/hour depending on technical abilities Why Join Us? * Entry point into precision machining and manufacturing careers

Quince

Embroidery Machine Operator

Santa Fe Springs, CA · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

THE ROLE Embroidery Machine Operator Quince is hiring Embroidery Machine Operators for our ... sewing work, among others. You will be placed based on your background and our production needs.

ODI Manufacturing LLC

Machine Operator

Riverside, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $21.25/hr

Description: The Machine Operator is responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining production machinery to ensure efficient and safe manufacturing operations. This position requires ...

Outdoor Research LLC

Sewing Lead

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

What you will do • Provide Training, guidance, and technical support to sewing operators to ... Conduct and document training on sewing machines, equipment, and manufacturing processes to promote ...

AnDek Staffing Services

Be Seen First

Machine Operator

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Machine Operator - Aerospace Manufacturing (1st, 2nd & 3rd Shift) Locations: Huntington Beach, CA We are seeking a reliable Machine Operator with some aerospace manufacturing experience to join our ...

Arrow Staffing

Machine Operator

Banning, CA

$19/hr

MACHINE OPERATOR Banning, CA $19.00/hr. 1st Shift: Monday - Thursday | 6:00 AM - 4:30 PM Temp-to-Hire Arrow Staffing is seeking a reliable and motivated Machine Operator to join their growing ...

New

Kinetic Personnel Group

Machine Operator

Orange, CA · On-site

$24/hr

We are seeking a Machine Operator with a high- end hardwood flooring manufacturer that offers room for growth. In this position, the Machine Operator will be crossed trained in every department from ...

Managed Staffing

Machine Operator

Lodi, CA · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Machine Operator Location: 1831 S Stockton St, Lodi, CA 95240 Pay Rate: $20.80/hour (W-2) Shift: 1st Shift Type: Contract Position Overview Seeking a Machine Operator (Rheon - Case Packer/Packaging ...

Florence Filter

Machine Operator

Compton, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Machine Operator Position at Florence Filter Florence Filter is seeking a dedicated Machine Operator to join our team. We are looking for individuals with experience in machinery operation and a ...

Arango HRS

Machine Operator

San Marcos, CA

$18.38/hr

Machine Operator Location: San Marcos, CA 92078 Schedule: Monday - Friday, 2nd Shift Shift Options: 2:00 PM - 10:30 PM or 3:00 PM - 11:30 PM Pay: $18.38 per hour, with potential overtime We are ...

Hedy Holmes Staffing Services

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Machine Operator

Stockton, CA · On-site

$21.95 - $23.95/hr

Machine Operator Pay Rate : $21.95 - $23.95 /hourly Location : Stockton, CA Schedule : Open to all shifts and days We are seeking a skilled Machine Operator to join our production team. The ideal ...

New

Hedy Holmes Staffing Services

Be Seen First

Machine Operator

Stockton, CA · On-site

$21.95 - $23.95/hr

Machine Operator Pay Rate : $21.95 - $23.95 /hourly Location : Stockton, CA Schedule : Open to all shifts and days We are seeking a skilled Machine Operator to join our production team. The ideal ...

New

Superior Metals Inc

Machine Operator

San Jose, CA

$20 - $23.75/hr

As a Machine Operator, you will be operating Amada laser and NC combo machinery and equipment, following all safety guidelines and job specifications to ensure projects are completed both safely and ...

Superior Metals Inc

Machine Operator

San Jose, CA

$20 - $23.75/hr

As a Machine Operator, you will be operating Amada laser and NC combo machinery and equipment, following all safety guidelines and job specifications to ensure projects are completed both safely and ...

J & L Custom Plastic Extrusions, Inc.

Be Seen First

Machine Operator

City Of Industry, CA · On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

The Machine Operator maintains operations in the production of customer product to be shipped. The Machine Operator will operate production equipment, monitor its operation, inspect the product ...

J & L Custom Plastic Extrusions, Inc.

Be Seen First

Machine Operator

City Of Industry, CA · On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

The Machine Operator maintains operations in the production of customer product to be shipped. The Machine Operator will operate production equipment, monitor its operation, inspect the product ...

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All JobsSewing Machine Operator JobsSewing Machine Operator Jobs in California

Sewing Machine Operator information

See California salary details

$9

$16

$21

How much do sewing machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for sewing machine operator 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 Does a Sewing Machine Operator Do?

As a sewing machine operator, your duties are to sew, join, gather, hem, and reinforce materials using an industrial sewing machine. You may select a pattern for sewing, determine what type of fabric to use, and adjust your equipment to ensure it is capable of creating the intended product. If you work as a seamstress on an industrial scale, your responsibilities are to produce a significant number of garments while adhering to your company's quality standards. If you work independently or at a tailor shop, you may sew original garments and perform alterations on existing clothes. In some positions, you may be asked to make decisions about sewing garments, such as what type of stitch to use, or help your company create a plan for other dressmakers to follow.

How much do sewing machine operators make in the US?

Sewing machine operators in the US earn a median annual wage of around $30,000 to $35,000, with wages varying based on experience, location, and industry. Many operators work full-time in manufacturing or apparel production environments, often requiring attention to detail and familiarity with sewing machines and patterns.

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

To thrive as a Sewing Machine Operator, you need strong manual dexterity, attention to detail, and familiarity with textiles, often supported by a high school diploma or vocational training. Proficiency in operating industrial sewing machines and following patterns or technical specifications is essential, and some roles may require experience with computerized sewing equipment. Dependability, time management, and the ability to work efficiently as part of a team are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining production quality, meeting deadlines, and supporting smooth workflow in manufacturing environments.

Is it hard to be a sewing machine operator?

Being a sewing machine operator requires attention to detail, manual dexterity, and the ability to follow patterns and instructions. The job often involves standing for long periods and operating machinery safely, with some positions requiring basic skills or certifications. Overall, it can be straightforward for those with steady hands and focus, but it may be challenging for individuals who struggle with repetitive tasks or fine motor skills.

What skills do you need to be a sewing machine operator?

A sewing machine operator needs good manual dexterity, attention to detail, and the ability to follow patterns and instructions accurately. Basic math skills are important for measuring and cutting fabric, and familiarity with sewing machines and safety procedures is essential. Strong focus and the ability to work efficiently are also valuable in this role.

Can you make a living off of sewing?

Sewing machine operators can earn a steady income, especially with experience and specialized skills. However, wages vary based on location, industry, and level of expertise, and many operators work full-time in manufacturing or textile settings to support themselves financially.

What are some common challenges faced by Sewing Machine Operators, and how can they be managed in the workplace?

Sewing Machine Operators often face challenges such as maintaining consistent quality and speed under tight deadlines, managing repetitive motions that can lead to fatigue, and troubleshooting minor machine issues. Many workplaces address these challenges by providing ergonomic workstations, regular breaks, and training on machine maintenance and safety. Operators are also encouraged to communicate with supervisors and team members to address workflow bottlenecks and ensure smooth production processes.

What are Sewing Machine Operators?

Sewing Machine Operators are skilled workers who operate sewing machines to join, reinforce, decorate, or perform related sewing operations in the manufacturing of garments, textiles, or other fabric-based products. They follow patterns or instructions to stitch materials together, ensuring accuracy, quality, and consistency. Sewing Machine Operators may work in factories, workshops, or small businesses, and are responsible for maintaining their machines and troubleshooting minor issues. Attention to detail and good hand-eye coordination are essential for this role.

What is the difference between Sewing Machine Operator vs Textile Worker?

AspectSewing Machine OperatorTextile Worker
CredentialsNone specific, some may have vocational trainingVaries, often basic skills or certifications in textile manufacturing
Work EnvironmentFactories, sewing rooms, production linesTextile mills, fabric production facilities
Industry UsageApparel, upholstery, manufacturingTextile production, fabric manufacturing
Job FocusOperating sewing machines to assemble productsProcessing raw fibers into fabric or yarn

The main difference is that Sewing Machine Operators focus on sewing and assembling products, while Textile Workers are involved in fabric and fiber production. Both roles are essential in the textile industry but serve different stages of manufacturing.

More about Sewing Machine Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Sewing Machine Operator jobs in California? The most popular types of Sewing Machine Operator jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Sewing Machine Operator jobs in California? For Sewing Machine Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Sewing Machine Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Sewing Machine Operator jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Sewing Machine Operator jobs? Cities in California with the most Sewing Machine Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Sewing Machine Operator jobs in CA? For Sewing Machine Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Sewing Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sewing Machine Operator job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,339 per year, or $16 per hour.
Furniture Upholsterer Machine Operator

Furniture Upholsterer Machine Operator

iStaffing

Rancho Cucamonga, CA • On-site

$22 - $23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

The Furniture Upholsterer Machine Operator specializes in working with residential furniture within a large upholstery team. The role involves operating various specialized machines such as sewing, cutting, stapling/nailing, and finishing equipment to efficiently upholster and assemble furniture. Attention to detail in fabric cutting, pattern matching, and quality inspection is essential to ensure finished products meet high-quality standards without requiring travel.

Responsibilities

  • Operate sewing, cutting, stapling/nailing, and finishing machines for upholstery tasks
  • Cut fabrics accurately according to specifications
  • Assemble furniture components to form finished products
  • Inspect furniture for quality and correct any defects
  • Handle materials and maintain inventory for ongoing projects
  • Perform routine maintenance on upholstery equipment
  • Match fabric patterns precisely to ensure visual consistency
  • Repair and restore furniture as needed
  • Adhere to all safety regulations and compliance standards

Preferred Qualifications

  • Entry-level experience in furniture upholstery