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Sewing Machine Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

IRA GREEN INC

Sewing Machine Operator

Buena Vista, VA · On-site

$15.25/hr

Sewing Machine Operator DEPARTMENT: Sewing Department REPORTS TO: Sewing Department Manager PAY: $15.25/HOUR SUMMARY: Sewing machine operator is responsible for operating various single-head sewing ...

IRA GREEN INC

Sewing Machine Operator

Buena Vista, VA

$15.25/hr

Sewing Machine Operator DEPARTMENT: Sewing Department REPORTS TO: Sewing Department Manager PAY: $15.25/HOUR SUMMARY: Sewing machine operator is responsible for operating various single-head sewing ...

MSCCN

Sewing Machine Operator

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$13.25 - $16/hr

Must understand the mechanical (moving parts) system of a sewing machine - presser foot, foot pedal, etc. and follow safety protocols when operating it * Select sewing supplies such as binding, braid ...

Ira Green, Inc.

Sewing Machine Operator

Buena Vista, VA · On-site

$15.25/hr

Sewing Machine Operator DEPARTMENT: Sewing Department REPORTS TO: Sewing Department Manager PAY: $15.25/HOUR SUMMARY: Sewing machine operator is responsible for operating various single-head sewing ...

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

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 ...

Petite Plume

Seasonal Embroidery Specialist

Richmond, VA

$20 - $21/hr

  • PTO

We will provide initial training on our machines and we expect you to be highly proficient at operating sewing machines already, a self-starter, and have the ability to keep multiple balls in the air ...

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Sewing Machine Operator information

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$9

$16

$21

How much do sewing machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 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 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 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.
More about Sewing Machine Operator jobs

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Sewing Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sewing Machine Operator job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 52% Full Time, 46% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,491 per year, or $16.1 per hour.

Sewing Machine Operator

IRA GREEN INC

Buena Vista, VA • On-site

$15.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Sayre Enterprises, a Division of Ira Green, offers 2 shift options for 1st shift: 4- 10 hour days, Monday-Thursday, 6AM-4:30PM OR 5- 8 hour days, Monday - Friday, 7AM-3:30PM. JOB TITLE: Sewing Machine Operator DEPARTMENT: Sewing Department REPORTS TO: Sewing Department Manager PAY: $15.25/HOUR SUMMARY: Sewing machine operator is responsible for operating various single-head sewing machines to sew a variety of items as part of the production process. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Ability to draw thread through guides, tensions, and needles and adjust tensions, threads, and bobbins according to fabric type.Ability to center material to prepare for processing on various sewing machines.Ability to observe sewing operations to detect defects in stitching that indicate machine malfunction and notify supervisor of malfunction.Must be dependable and self-motivated with a positive attitude.Ability to work independently with little supervision and communicate well with supervisors, managers and team leaders.Ability to maintain speed and efficiency and be fully committed to excellent customer service.Ability to maintain department production demand numbers.Ability to accurately count and follow written or verbal directions.Pay attention to the quality of both the starting product and the finished product.Continually utilize visual awareness to operate equipment, read information, and have discernment for colors and detail.Perform other duties as assigned by management

Sayre Enterprises, a Division of Ira Green, Inc., is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer Minority/Female/Disabled/Veteran/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity

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