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Sewing Machine Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Makwa Global LLC

Sewing & Assembly Technician

Mclean, VA · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Experience operating sewing machines or performing garment alterations. * Background in a military, government, or uniformed-service environment is a plus. * Must be US Citizen Skills & Competencies

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Makwa Global LLC

Sewing & Assembly Technician

Mclean, VA · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Description: · Perform dual-role functions supporting order fulfillment and tailoring operations. · Pick, stage, and prepare organizational gear for issue or shipment. · Operate sewing and ...

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BGF Industries

Finish Machine Operator Train

Altavista, VA · On-site

$17.16 - $18.86/hr

The operator reads work orders and initiates actions to meet customer specifications, batching, and ... Computers, finishing unit, piece tickets, work orders, seamers, sewing machines, Standard Running ...

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NAVSTA Norfolk

(NEX NORFOLK) FABRIC WORKER

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$20.82/hr

Sits for long periods of time while operating sewing machine or doing hand sewing. Continual use of hands, arms and fingers is required in sewing and using shears. WORKING CONDITIONS Works in ...

Oceana

(NEX OCEANA) FABRIC WORKER

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$20.82/hr

Sits for long periods of time while operating sewing machine or doing hand sewing. Continual use of hands arms and fingers is required in sewing and using shears. WORKING CONDITIONS Works in enclosed ...

Workforce

Machine Operator

Mckenney, VA · On-site

$14 - $18/hr

Machine Operator Schedule & Pay * Pay Rate: $14.00 - $18.00 per hour (based on experience) * Schedule: Monday - Friday * Hours: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM Position Overview We are seeking a dependable and ...

Baillie Lumber Co.

Machine Operator

Waynesboro, VA · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Machine Operator Summary AHI, a member of the Baillie Group, is hiring a machine operator for their Waynesboro, VA surfacing location. This is a full time opportunity working for a world class ...

ExpressPros - Richmond, VA

Machine Operator

Ashland, VA · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Machine Operator - Multiple Shifts Available Pay: $18-$22/hour Location: Richmond & Ashland We are currently hiring experienced Machine Operators for multiple clients in the area. These roles are ...

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PeopleShare

Machine Operator

Newport News, VA · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

Do you have Machine Operator experience? Are you looking for a new opportunity? Do you love overtime? PeopleShare is urgently hiring in the Newport News, Virginia area! Apply now for immediate ...

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Workforce

Machine Operator

Sandston, VA · On-site

$16/hr

Machine Operator Location: Sandston, VA Pay Rate: $16.00 per hour Schedule: 12-Hour Shifts * Day Shift: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM * Night Shift: 7:00 PM - 7:00 AM Join Our Manufacturing Team! Are you an ...

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All JobsSewing Machine Operator JobsSewing Machine Operator Jobs in Virginia

Sewing Machine Operator information

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$9

$16

$21

How much do sewing machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for sewing machine operator in Virginia is $16.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.28 and $17.16 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 Virginia? The most popular types of Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Virginia? For Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Sewing Machine Operator jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Sewing Machine Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Sewing Machine Operator jobs in VA? For Sewing Machine Operator jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Sewing Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sewing Machine Operator job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 5% Contract, and 9% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,491 per year, or $16.1 per hour.

Sewing Machine Operator

Aerial Machine&Tool Corp

Meadows Of Dan, VA • On-site

$15.60 - $16.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Be an early applicant

Job description

JOB TITLE: Sewing Machine Operator

DEPARTMENT: Sewing

REPORTS TO: Sewing Supervisor

POSITION SUMMARY: Operates a sewing machine to produce products of varying sizes and styles based on company needs. Will be cross-trained on multiple sewing machines and products. The open positions are for items that are thicker and require good hand strength and dexterity.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Operates sewing machines and guides material under needles, following edges, seams or markings.
  • Assembles pieces using various sewing techniques.
  • Set up and maintain industrial sewing machines.
  • Sew pieces of fabric together by hand or on lightweight or industrial heavy-duty machines: attach eyelets, grommets and fasteners.
  • Attaches zippers, pockets, buttons or accessories using specialized techniques and adjusts needles and thread according to thickness of material.
  • Examines sections of finished articles for defects and cuts off excess material and threads.
  • Assembles pieces or sews the whole product.
  • Carries out basic maintenance of hand tools and machines.
  • Maintains quality and quantity daily.
  • Assist in helping other operators to maintain production and quality.
  • Maintains safe operations by adhering to safety procedures.
  • Fill out inspection, work orders and process records.
  • Other tasks as assigned by Management.
  • Maintains the cleanliness of the general working area and machinery.
  • Other duties as assigned by management.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE and SKILLS:

  • HS diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • Enjoy practical and manual work.
  • Able to work as part of a team.
  • Able to produce product to defined specifications.
  • Able to work under production deadlines.
  • Must have excellent hand and eye coordination.
  • Must be able to read tape measure and use measurement gauges.
  • Must have a keen sense to detail.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: None

Must check and use posted PPE for specific job area.

Applicants for this position must be a U.S. Person, as defined by U.S. export control laws.

This position/job description is for reference and guidance only and is subject to change at anytime.

Note: An individual with a disability will be considered qualified for any position which the person can perform the essential function of the position with or without reasonable accommodation. All essential functions incorporated in this description may be subject to reasonable accommodation.


4/10 Schedule; 10 hours per day Monday-Thursday