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Sewing Machine Operator Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Herff Jones

Sewing Machine Operator

Arcola, IL · On-site

$18/hr

Sewing Machine Operator- Hoods Location: Arcola, IL Shift: ​ ***FIRST SHIFT, MONDAY - FRIDAY 7:00am - 3:30pm*** Starting Minimum Pay: $18.00 per hour THE MOST TRUSTED NAME IN CELEBRATING STUDENT ...

Steel Grip, Inc.

Sewing Machine Operator

Danville, IL · On-site

$14.50 - $17.25/hr

Summary: Operates sewing machine to join, gather, hem, reinforce, or decorate articles by ... Displayed competency on operating machinery * Ability to perform basic mathematical skills

herffjones

Sewing Machine Operator

Arcola, IL · On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

Sewing Machine Operator Location: Arcola Starting Pay for position: $ 18.00 per hour JOIN OUR TEAM! About Herff Jones: Indianapolis-based Herff Jones is the leading provider of graduation and ...

herffjones

Sewing Machine Operator

Arcola, IL · On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

Sewing Machine Operator Location: Arcola Starting Pay for position: $ 18.00 per hour JOIN OUR TEAM! About Herff Jones: Indianapolis-based Herff Jones is the leading provider of graduation and ...

Steel Grip, Inc.

Sewing Machine Operator

Danville, IL · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Summary: Operates sewing machine to join, gather, hem, reinforce, or decorate articles by ... Displayed competency on operating machinery * Ability to perform basic mathematical skills

herffjones

Sewing Machine Operator

Arcola, IL · On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

Sewing Machine Operator Location: Arcola Starting Pay for position: $ 18.00 per hour JOIN OUR TEAM! About Herff Jones: Indianapolis-based Herff Jones is the leading provider of graduation and ...

herffjones

Sewing Machine Operator

Arcola, IL

$14.25 - $17/hr

Sewing Machine Operator Location: Arcola Starting Pay for position: $ 18.00 per hour JOIN OUR TEAM! About Herff Jones: Indianapolis-based Herff Jones is the leading provider of graduation and ...

HERFF JONES

Sewing Machine Operator

Arcola, IL · On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

Sewing Machine Operator Location: Arcola Starting Pay for position: $ 18.00 per hour JOIN OUR TEAM! About Herff Jones: Indianapolis-based Herff Jones is the leading provider of graduation and ...

herffjones

Sewing Machine Operator

Arcola, IL · On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

Sewing Machine Operator Location: Arcola Starting Pay for position: $ 18.00 per hour JOIN OUR TEAM! About Herff Jones: Indianapolis-based Herff Jones is the leading provider of graduation and ...

herffjones

Sewing Machine Operator

Arcola, IL

$14.25 - $17/hr

Sewing Machine Operator Location: Arcola Starting Pay for position: $ 18.00 per hour JOIN OUR TEAM! About Herff Jones: Indianapolis-based Herff Jones is the leading provider of graduation and ...

herffjones

Sewing Machine Operator - Hoods

Arcola, IL · On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

Sewing Machine Operator Location: Arcola Starting Pay for position: $ 19.00 per hour JOIN OUR TEAM! About Herff Jones: Indianapolis-based Herff Jones is the leading provider of graduation and ...

herffjones

Sewing Machine Operator - Hoods

Arcola, IL · On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

Sewing Machine Operator Location: Arcola Starting Pay for position: $ 19.00 per hour JOIN OUR TEAM! About Herff Jones: Indianapolis-based Herff Jones is the leading provider of graduation and ...

HERFF JONES

Sewing Machine Operator - Hoods

Arcola, IL · On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

Sewing Machine Operator Location: Arcola Starting Pay for position: $ 19.00 per hour JOIN OUR TEAM! About Herff Jones: Indianapolis-based Herff Jones is the leading provider of graduation and ...

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All JobsSewing Machine Operator JobsSewing Machine Operator Jobs in Illinois

Sewing Machine Operator information

See Illinois salary details

$9

$15

$20

How much do sewing machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for sewing machine operator in Illinois is $15.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.99 and $16.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a sewing machine operator?

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 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.

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.

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 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.

How much do sewing machine operators make in the US?

Sewing machine operators in the US earn a median hourly wage of around $14 to $16, with annual salaries approximately $29,000 to $33,000. Wages can vary based on experience, location, and the complexity of the tasks performed, and operators often need to be skilled in machine maintenance and sewing techniques.

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 repetitive tasks and operating various sewing machines, which may require some training or experience but is generally accessible with practice. Physical stamina and focus are important for maintaining quality and efficiency during shifts.
More about Sewing Machine Operator jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Illinois are:

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

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

What job categories do people searching Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Sewing Machine Operator jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Sewing Machine Operator job openings:

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

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

Sewing Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sewing Machine Operator job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 42% Full Time, 56% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,735 per year, or $15.7 per hour.

Sewing Machine Operator - 1st and 2nd shift

Bolingbrook, IL • On-site

WeatherTech
Motor Vehicle Manufacturing • 1 - 5K employees

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Recommended by parents

Learn more about WeatherTechexternal

$20.50/hr

Full-time, Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Sewing Machine Operator 

WeatherTech Direct is seeking well-qualified Sewing Machine Operators to operate industrial sewing machines to produce parts.

This is a great opportunity to join our growing company!

  • Sewing Machine Operators have base rate of pay starting at $20.50 per hour or more depending on experience with a $1/hour shift premium for 2nd shift.
  • Employees who demonstrate EXCELLENT performance, attitude, and punctuality have the potential to earn end of year bonuses and pay increases!

As a Sewing Machine Operator, you will

  • Operate industrial sewing machinery and equipment utilized in the production process
  • Use CNC cutting machine to cut fabric into correct shapes
  • Lift and transfer raw material, finished product and packed materials from conveyors and tables
  • Create and print labels using ERP system
  • Clean, label and pack finished product
  • Ensure all inventory is stocked and put in the correct location using an RF Scanner
  • Ensure all quality standards are met
  • Accurately complete all the required job paperwork on assigned tasks
  • Inspect part to ensure it meets quality standards; notify production lead or quality department of any defects/substandard parts
  • Communicate with supervisor and managers regarding issues that occur affecting people, equipment, or materials
  • Train new and existing team members on different functions of the production area to ensure all are able to perform all tasks properly; share knowledge and best practices to help aid efficiency and productivity
  • Comply with all safety guidelines and company procedures
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications

  • 1-year prior experience with commercial sewing
  • Basic knowledge of threading and sewing machine maintenance
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Ability to work independently
  • High attention to detail
  • Must be able to read and understand verbal and written work orders/instructions in English
  • Availability to work weekends and overtime, as needed
  • Team player with a good attitude and strong work ethic
  • Be dependable, with excellent attendance record
  • Authorized to work in the United States 

Why you’ll love working at WeatherTech Direct

WeatherTech Direct is proud to offer employees a competitive salary and benefits package, opportunities for internal promotions and skill development, and a clean and safe work space. Employees are offered an array of perks including: 

  • Outstanding BlueCross BlueShield of Illinois medical plans; as well as dental, vision, short and long term disability, and company-paid life insurance
  • 401(k) with employer matching
  • Paid vacation, holidays, and personal time
  • Internal Training and Development programs/opportunities

 WTC1

What WeatherTech employees say

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