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Sewing Machine Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Machine Operator

Rock Rapids, IA

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

The candidate will be trained to operate machinery in our wood shop and be responsible with the rest of the team to keep the print room fully stocked at all times. The candidate is expected to ...

Machine Operator

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

Assists Machine operator II/Supervisor and Mold Change Team with mold changes as needed * Working together in a Team * Ensure team works together as efficiently as possible * Maintains good ...

Machine Operator I

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$34K - $51K/yr

The Machine Operator produces quality product according to precise specifications within time constraints. At some locations, this position will also include general warehouse duties such as shipping ...

Machine Operator I

Urbandale, IA

$16 - $19.25/hr

The Machine Operator produces quality product according to precise specifications within time constraints. At some locations, this position will also include general warehouse duties such as shipping ...

Machine Operator I

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$16.66 - $24.98/hr

The Machine Operator produces quality product according to precise specifications within time constraints. At some locations, this position will also include general warehouse duties such as shipping ...

Showing results 41-60

Sewing Machine Operator information

See Iowa salary details

$8

$15

$20

How much do sewing machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for sewing machine operator in Iowa is $15.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.56 and $16.25 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 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.

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 repetitive tasks and working with various fabrics and machines, but with training and experience, it can become easier. Some positions may require basic certifications or skills in machine maintenance.

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 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 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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Sewing Machine Operator job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $31,729 per year, or $15.3 per hour.

Machine Operator

Simply Said

Rock Rapids, IA

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Responsibilities:

Simply Said in Rock Rapids, IA is seeking a motivated, hardworking individual to assist in our production team. The candidate will be trained to operate machinery in our wood shop and be responsible with the rest of the team to keep the print room fully stocked at all times. The candidate is expected to perform quality checks on the materials and maintain all shop equipment in an acceptable manner. SimplySaid offers full-time positions without downtime or layoffs. We offer matching retirement contributions among other benefits and a flexible work schedule.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Setup and operation of woodworking machines

- Identify and correct any mistakes in the work pieces as part of quality control.
- Has good communication skills.
- Knowledge of basic shop equipment.
- Performs other related duties as assigned.
- Ideal candidates will have previous experience working in a wood shop. (planning, cutting and molding lumber) Forklift skills is also a plus.

Work Schedule:

Full-time position (40 hours)
Monday - Friday
8:00am to 5:00pm

To Apply:

To apply for this position
1. Online platform you found this job opening.
2. or Submit resume to isaacperrine1@gmail.com
3. or apply in person at our main offices:

408 N 2nd Ave E,
Rock Rapids, IA 51246
Phone: (712) 472-2282

Qualifications

- Valid ID
- Reliable transportation.
- 18 years or older.
- Meets all employment and immigration laws.
- Able to lift at least 40 lbs.
- Able to be on your feet for up to 10 hours a day.

OTHER

- We are willing to work and train the ideal candidate. We are willing to hire all experience levels

Posted: Oct. 7/17/25


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