1

Sewing Machine Operator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

JOB SUMMARY The Industrial Sewing Machine Operator Supervisor oversees a team of sewing machine operators, ensuring efficient and high-quality production of sewn products. This role involves ...

As a Manufacturing Operator - Sewing, you will produce fabric pouches and bags used to organize ... Adjust machine settings, fixtures, and tooling to optimize output and performance * Keep the work ...

As a Manufacturing Operator - Sewing, you will produce fabric pouches and bags used to organize ... machine's day-to-day performance and partner with our Manufacturing Maintenance Specialist to ...

As a Manufacturing Operator - Sewing, you will produce fabric pouches and bags used to organize ... machine's day-to-day performance and partner with our Manufacturing Maintenance Specialist to ...

Sewing Technician

Auburn Hills, MI ยท On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

Prepares machine by changing needles and thread, oiling and changing bobbin, and securing attachments. * Sews materials together by using industrial sewing machines. * Follows written job work orders ...

Sewing - Sewer

Farwell, MI ยท On-site

$13 - $15.50/hr

Ability to be versatile in operating different sewing machines LANGUAGE SKILLS: * Ability to read, analyze and interpret the English language. * Associate must have the ability to communicate ...

Sewing - Sewer

Farwell, MI ยท On-site

$13 - $15.50/hr

Ability to be versatile in operating different sewing machines LANGUAGE SKILLS: * Ability to read, analyze and interpret the English language. * Associate must have the ability to communicate ...

No sewing experience? Sew what. We'll train you! Attention to detail, willingness to learn ... Operator role if you: * Can (or are willing to learn how to) operate and maintain sewing machines

Machine Operator Whitehall, MI, all shifts available, $16 per hour Job Summary Are you a hands-on ... Individuals who enjoy working with their hands--like fixing cars, sewing quilts, or doing artistic ...

Operate and maintain sewing machines and related parts, including pattern plates, needles, presser feet, automatic cutting tools and blades. * Read and interpret work orders and adjust machines and ...

Industrial Sewer - Machine Operator

Grand Rapids, MI ยท On-site

$14.50 - $17.25/hr

SUMMARY We're looking for a sewer who will be responsible for the operation of cutting and sewing ... Operate and tend equipment to cut, sew, assemble and adjust machine functions as necessary using ...

Sewer

Holland, MI ยท On-site

$19.80/hr

Ability to operate industrial sewing machines * Strong organizational and inventory management skills * Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced warehouse environment As a Sewing Machine Operator ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Sewing Machine Operator information

See Michigan salary details

$8

$14

$18

How much do sewing machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for sewing machine operator in Michigan is $14.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.55 and $15.10 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Michigan are:
What job categories do people searching Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Sewing Machine Operator jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Sewing Machine Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Sewing Machine Operator jobs in MI? For Sewing Machine Operator jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Industrial Sewing Supervisor

Industrial Sewing Supervisor

HexArmor

Grand Rapids, MI โ€ข On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

COMPANY SUMMARY

HexArmor is a leader in developing some of the most advanced PPE solutions for your eyes, hands, arms, and body. At HexArmor, we believe safety is not a luxury - it's a necessity. Since day one, we have worked hand-in-hand with our customers to design innovative, high performance PPE that helps ensure workers return home in the same condition they arrived. Our mission is to provide the protection that makes this possible, for every worker, everywhere.

JOB SUMMARY

The Industrial Sewing Machine Operator Supervisor oversees a team of sewing machine operators, ensuring efficient and high-quality production of sewn products. This role involves coordinating daily operations, training team members, and maintaining a safe and productive work environment. The individual in this position will also operate a machine, guiding products or product parts under machine needles and presser foot pedals to proficiently operate several types of sewing machines to construct complete products. The person in this position needs to be familiar with several seam and stitch types and should be able to train trainers and supervisors in difficult operations as well as perform peer to peer training.

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Motivate and lead a team of sewing machine operators, providing guidance and support to achieve production goals.
  • Train new operators on sewing techniques, machine operation, and safety protocols, ensuring all team members meet quality standards.
  • Monitor workflow and production processes, adjusting schedules and assignments to optimize efficiency and meet deadlines.
  • Inspect finished products for quality and adherence to specifications; address any quality issues with the team and implement corrective actions.
  • Serve as backup operator for custom product orders.
  • Operate heavy duty sewing equipment single or double needle surging, union special, basic & complicated automated and/or bar tacking machines to perform sewing steps to join, reinforce or decorate material or articles, such as labels, Velcro, and webbing.
  • Proficiently perform a combination of multiple medium sewing steps or difficult sewing step with 80% or higher proficiency (10 or more) in two or more product lines, with the ability to set up a new product line.
  • Set up, adjust, and operate laser cutting machines to cut and shape materials.
  • Interpret technical drawings and work orders to determine cutting requirements.
  • Optimize machine settings for material type, thickness, and job requirements.
  • Promote a safe working environment by enforcing safety policies and practices; conduct regular safety training sessions.
  • Maintain production records and report on team performance, productivity metrics, and quality issues to management.
  • Identify opportunities for process improvements and collaborate with management to implement best practices, create standard operating procedures (SOPs) for processes in place.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • High school diploma or equivalent; additional training in sewing or textile production preferred.
  • 3-5 years of experience in industrial sewing, required
  • 1+ year(s) in a supervisory or leadership role, preferred.
  • Bilingual (Spanish), preferred.
  • Proficient in operating various types of industrial sewing machines; knowledge of fabric types and sewing techniques.
  • Strong leadership and team-building skills, with the ability to motivate and develop team members.
  • Ability to calculate figures and amounts such as proportions, percentages and volume.
  • Ability to perform basic mathematical calculations such as adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing in all units of measure.
  • Must be able to use a tape measure to measure products pieces.
  • The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.

COMPENSATION

Hourly compensation between $25-30 per hour based on experience, additional performance bonus included.

ADDITIONAL BENEFITS

  • Full Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • 401k Match
  • Paid Time Off and Holiday Vacation
  • Opportunity to keep people safe with a premium product

HexArmor is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with dignity and respect. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.

At HexArmor, we believe diversity in people and ideas makes us stronger. We are committed to attracting and retaining a diverse employee workforce honoring people's experiences, perspectives, and cultural backgrounds. As one HexArmor community, we strive to create and maintain a working environment that is welcoming, inclusive, and impartial. If you require a reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process, please let us know.

** Employment offers are contingent upon an E-Verify check and the successful completion of a pre-employment drug screen.