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Sewing Machine Operator Jobs in Washington (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

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 ...

Kelly Services

Machine Operator

Chantilly, VA

$19.50/hr

Machine Operator (Entry Level) Location: Onsite Schedule: Second Shift -12-hour shifts Compensation: $19.50 per hour For those who want to keep growing, learning, and evolving. We at Kelly ® hear ...

Aerotek

Machine Operator

Elkridge, MD

$22 - $25/hr

Machine Operator We are seeking a skilled and experienced Press Brake Operator to join our team for the first and second shift. The ideal candidate will have 1-3 years of experience in bending sheet ...

Aerotek

Machine Operator

Hanover, MD

$22 - $25/hr

Machine Operator We are seeking a skilled and experienced Press Brake Operator to join our team for the second shift. The ideal candidate will have 1-3 years of experience in bending sheet metal and ...

CRH

Machine Operator

Crofton, MD · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Machine Operator Architectural Products Group Crofton, Maryland, United States Job ID: 527639 Oldcastle, a CRH company, is reinventing what's possible in building solutions. We are the leading ...

Sysco Corporation

Machine Operator

Laurel, MD · On-site

$10 - $48/hr

... operating machine tools to convert materials into parts, sub-assemblies, and assemblies • Surface finishing of parts, components, and assembled items including washing/painting/plating/anti ...

CRH

Machine Operator

Crofton, MD · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Perform routine machine maintenance * Assist other operators to set up machines and any other necessary tasks to adhere to deadlines and completion of product * Make sure all housekeeping is ...

Amrize

Transfer Machine Operator

Clinton, MD

$17 - $20.25/hr

Transfer Machine Operator ABOUT THE ROLE Amrize, a leading supplier of quality, construction building materials in the United States, has immediate openings for a Transfer Machine Operator in our ...

Amrize

Transfer Machine Operator

Clinton, MD · On-site

$17 - $20.25/hr

Transfer Machine Operator ABOUT THE ROLE Amrize, a leading supplier of quality, construction building materials in the United States, has immediate openings for a Transfer Machine Operator in our ...

Primo Brands

Machine Operator

Lorton, VA

$25.45/hr

... machines, wrappers, and forklifts Record the following: preventative maintenance activities ... prevent operating to company standards/procedures Meet or exceed performance metrics including ...

Posted today

Varsity Brands

Emb Single - Machine Operator

Forestville, MD · On-site

$17.75 - $21/hr

... Operators are responsible for ensuring the embroidery process for all our products in our facility. You'll handle gathering the designs, loading them into the machine, ensuring proper placement of ...

Sparks Group

Machine Operator AM 1 Shift

Chantilly, VA

$17.50/hr

Sparks Group has partnered with a well-known company in Chantilly, VA that is seeking a Machine Operator to join their team. This position has an overnight schedule from 5am-5pm, Sunday-Tuesday and ...

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All JobsSewing Machine Operator JobsSewing Machine Operator Jobs in Washington

Sewing Machine Operator information

See Washington salary details

$10

$18

$24

How much do sewing machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for sewing machine operator in Washington is $18.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $19.62 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

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Sewing Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sewing Machine Operator job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,260 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

Sewing & Assembly Technician

Makwa Global LLC

Mclean, VA • On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Description:
  • Perform dual-role functions supporting CIF fulfillment and tailoring operations for Infantry Combat Equipment (ICE) and organizational gear.
  • Accurately pick, stage, and prepare orders for issue, shipment, or transfer based on Warehouse Management System (WMS) work orders.
  • Verify item type, size, quantity, and condition prior to issue or shipment.
  • Operate government-furnished or contractor-provided sewing and embroidery equipment to alter, repair, or customize uniforms and gear in accordance with CIF requirements.
  • Apply name tapes, rank, unit identifiers, and required modifications to clothing and equipment.
  • Inspect garments and gear for workmanship and serviceability after tailoring or repair.
  • Stage completed orders for over-the-counter issue, bulk unit issue, or outbound shipment.
  • Support inventory accuracy by reporting discrepancies, damaged items, or shortages to site leadership.
  • Maintain clean, organized work areas in both warehouse and tailoring spaces.
  • Comply with all safety, security, and government property accountability requirements.
  • Support surge operations during high-tempo periods such as drill weekends, deployments, and reconstitution cycles.
  • Provide professional, customer-focused support to military personnel during issue events.
Requirements:
  • 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

  • High attention to detail and accuracy in both picking and tailoring tasks.
  • Ability to read and execute work orders and tailoring instructions.
  • Proficiency or aptitude in operating industrial or commercial sewing equipment.
  • Basic computer skills and ability to learn warehouse management systems.
  • Physical ability to lift, carry, and move equipment and boxed items safely.
  • Strong time management and ability to balance multiple task types.
  • Team-oriented mindset with a high level of personal accountability.
  • Professional demeanor when interacting with military customers.

Certifications / Education

  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Sewing, tailoring, or textile certifications/training are a plus.
  • Forklift or material-handling certification is a plus.

Security Requirement

  • Public Trust clearance is required. Candidates must be eligible to maintain clearance throughout employment.