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Sewing Machine Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Partners Personnel

Sewer

Garden Grove, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $19/hr

Candidates must have experience operating industrial sewing machines in a manufacturing environment. This position requires attention to detail, quality workmanship, and the ability to meet ...

Flag Stars Inc

Double Needle Sewing Worker

Mira Loma, CA · On-site

$17 - $25/hr

Previous experience operating double-needle or industrial sewing machines preferred * Ability to read and follow sewing patterns, diagrams, or work orders * Strong attention to detail and commitment ...

Sivana

Seamstress / Kitting Associate

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Sewing Machine Operator / Kitting Associate Compensation: $20.00 per hour Location: Carlsbad, CA Role Description: Looking for an experienced sewing machine operator to relabel clothing tags, make ...

Sivana

Seamstress / Kitting Associate

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Sewing Machine Operator / Kitting Associate Compensation: $20.00 per hour Location: Carlsbad, CA Role Description: Looking for an experienced sewing machine operator to relabel clothing tags, make ...

REVOLVE

Sample Sewer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$22 - $24.50/hr

He or she must apply his or her extensive sewing experience and be very comfortable running many different sewing machines (such as: Single Needle, 3 and 5 Thread Overlock, Cover Stitch, Marrow ...

Sivana

Lead Seamstress / Kitting Associate

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Sewing Machine Operator / Kitting Associate Location: Carlsbad, CA Role Description: Looking for an experienced sewing machine operator to relabel clothing tags, make clothing alterations, and help ...

Sivana

Lead Seamstress / Kitting Associate

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Sewing Machine Operator / Kitting Associate Location: Carlsbad, CA Role Description: Looking for an experienced sewing machine operator to relabel clothing tags, make clothing alterations, and help ...

Lakeland Industries

SEWER

Fresno, CA · On-site

$20/hr

Experience operating sewing machines in a manufacturing or textile environment. * Ability to perform repetitive physical tasks including bending, twisting, and handling large materials. * Basic ...

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Sewing Machine Operator information

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How much do sewing machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 25, 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,339 per year, or $16 per hour.
Sewing Machine Operator

Sewing Machine Operator

Outdoor Research LLC

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$16.90/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

About the Organization
About the Organization
Since 1981, Outdoor Research has been building award-winning outdoor clothing and gear. We stand behind every product we make with the Outdoor Research Infinite Guarantee• warranty. Find out how we were born from our founder Ron Gregg's research-led approach to problem solving, and discover the origins of our first products in Our Story. Discover our roots in U.S. manufacturing, our legacy in Made in the USA tactical gloves, and our response to the COVID-19 pandemic with the development of face masks and medical-grade personal protective equipment in Protection. Learn about our product processes using recycled materials, how we enforce the safety and wellbeing of our workplaces, and our commitment to all people and the planet in Responsibility. Meet some of our community members who work to create safe, accessible, and equitable outdoor spaces in our Community Partnerships and our Ambassadors. We'd be thrilled to have you join the team and find your Career at Outdoor Research.
Outdoor Research Values
Curiosity: We are constantly striving to learn and improve ourselves. In our products, as a brand, as a team, and as individuals.
Passion: We love what we do and take pride in sharing our work with others.
Innovation: We are complex problem solvers.
Collaboration: We are better together.
Community: We embrace the collective impact we can have from our diverse perspectives; on each other, society, and our environment.
Position
Sewing Machine Operator
Description
Location: Los Angeles
Position: Full-Time
Compensation: $16.90 per hour
About this role
The Sewer is responsible for assembling components of ultra cold-weather gloves and outdoor products in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. This position operates one or more industrial sewing machines to produce high-quality products while meeting production and quality standards. The Sewer reports directly to the Director of Manufacturing and must be flexible and adaptable to changing production processes and workflow.
Position Requirements
What you should bring to the table
  • Attention to detail
  • Factory level sewing experience with any of the following machines:
    • Single needle
    • Double needle
    • Bartacker
    • Bonis machine
    • Seam seal machine
  • Working understanding of garment construction and good sewing quality
  • Familiar with factory sewing / cutting equipment / operational procedures / safety standards
  • Minimum 3 years factory experience in technical apparel or gloves

What do we bring to the table?
  • Potential for Bonus
  • 11 paid holidays each year and 3 floating holidays
  • PTO
  • Paid volunteer time
  • Comprehensive medical, dental and vision plans
  • 401K with discretionary company match
  • Product discounts

Exempt/Non-Exempt
Non-Exempt
Full-Time/Part-Time
Full-Time
Location
California
EOE Statement
OR is committed to equal employment opportunity and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment in an unlawful manner. Employment-related decisions are made based on an individual's qualifications without regard to race, sex, color, religion, age, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital or military status, genetic information, political ideology or other applicable protected class status. This commitment extends to all employment practices including selection, hiring, placement, recruitment advertising, promotion or transfer, rate of pay or other forms of compensation, selection for training, demotion, layoff, or separation. All employment decisions are based upon the qualifications of the individual and the job requirements.
OR supports this commitment with an Affirmative Action Program, which is updated annually. The
objectives of the Affirmative Action Program are to ensure that our team reflects the diversity of our local community. We fully support affirmative action to include women, ethnic minorities, veterans and persons with disabilities throughout our workforce. The OR Affirmative Action Program is available for review by all employees and is maintained in the Human Resources Department.
This position is currently accepting applications.

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