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Sewing Machine Operator Jobs in Autryville, NC (NOW HIRING)

Operating large, heavy-duty sewing machines. Operator must be physically able to grasp, hold, and make special maneuvers to sew heavy, difficult or complicated work. Knowledge/Skills/Experience * 2-3 ...

Operating large, heavy-duty sewing machines. Operator must be physically able to grasp, hold, and make special maneuvers to sew heavy, difficult or complicated work. Knowledge/Skills/Experience * 2-3 ...

Machine Operator - Plastics

Clinton, NC ยท On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

Hog Slat, Inc. is seeking a professional to join our Plastics Injection Mold team in Clinton, NC as a Machine Operator. This position is responsible for monitoring, changing, and maintaining plastic ...

Machine Operator - Plastics

Clinton, NC ยท On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

Hog Slat, Inc. is seeking a professional to join our Plastics Injection Mold team in Clinton, NC as a Machine Operator. This position is responsible for monitoring, changing, and maintaining plastic ...

3761 Capping Machine Operator

Mount Olive, NC ยท On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

We have an opening for a Night Shift Capping Machine Operator for our DC Production Facility. Summary Operates controls for the feeding line, brine pump, brine conveyor, capper conveyor, and jar ...

Experienced Machine Operator

Mount Olive, NC ยท On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Job Type Full-time Description Machine Operators support production operations at our processing plants by safely operating and maintaining equipment. This role requires strong mechanical aptitude ...

Machine Operator-Metal Fabrication

Clinton, NC ยท On-site

$15 - $20/hr

We're looking for Machine Operators who not only take pride in the quality of their work but also enjoy and thrive in the fast-paced environment of a busy shop. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

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Sewing Machine Operator information

See Autryville, NC salary details

$8

$14

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How much do sewing machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for sewing machine operator in Autryville, NC is $14.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.17 and $15.77 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.

What cities near Autryville, NC are hiring for Sewing Machine Operator jobs?

Cities near Autryville, NC with the most Sewing Machine Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Sewing Machine Operator job openings in Autryville, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,818 per year, or $14.8 per hour.

Stitcher 1

Point Blank Enterprises Inc

Lillington, NC โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Overview

Safely set up and operate various types of industrial sewing machines as required to do job. Make adjustments and routine light maintenance of machines. Must understand properties of leather, synthetics, and Kydex. Count and accurately record product information on log sheets.

Key Performance Indicators

  • Produces products that meet or exceed quality expectations.
  • Maintains or exceeds quantity expectations.
  • Practices acceptable attendance as evidenced by individual attendance log.
  • Works within company values as indicated by manager observation and as noted in each review cycle.

General Duties and Responsibilities

  • Safely handling materials, tools, and supplies used in the department.
  • Determining if the product that is being manufactured has the correct parts and is correctly cut and processed to ensure a quality product.
  • Performing some minor machine maintenance as required.
  • Recognizing immediately if a machine is malfunctioning and notifying team leader promptly to avoid delays in production.
  • Meeting schedules and maintaining good quality requirements on a daily basis.
  • Filling in on any position on the production floor as required by the team leader or any other designated employee if need should arise.
  • Receiving requests, instructions and directions and complying with the same.
  • Complying with all safety rules and regulations and using any personal protective equipment or machine guards that may be required.
  • Keeping a safe, clean and well-organized workstation.
  • Recognizing any hazards or unsafe situations in the department and making suggestions to the team leader of any methods or procedures to correct the problem.
  • Recognizing any defect in product and reporting defect to team leader after sending to next operation.
  • Being proactive by regularly making suggestions for job improvements, product quality, housekeeping, etc.
  • Keeping equipment and tools stored in their correct places.
  • Notifying the team leader immediately if shortages of supplies should arise.
  • Knowledge of Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS).
  • Other duties as assigned by management.

Job Duties of Stitcher I

The employee will perform on a regular basis

  • Operating various stitching machines to sew leather and non-leather components for a wide variety of products.
  • Routine cleaning, oiling, and maintenance of machines daily as required.
  • Adjusting tension and stitch lengths.
  • Threading the machine and changing needles and awls.
  • Installing bobbins and routing thread.
  • Changing presser foot and adjusting pressure as needed.
  • Evaluating the compatibility of weights of top threads and bobbin threads.
  • Understanding all oiling points and areas of a sewing machine that have to be cleaned and require maintenance daily.

Job Duties of Stitcher II

The employee will perform on a regular basis

  • Operating various stitching machines to sew leather and non-leather components for a wide variety of products.
  • Routine cleaning, oiling, and maintenance of machines daily as required.
  • Adjusting tension and stitch lengths.
  • Threading the machine and changing needles and awls.
  • Installing bobbins and routing thread.
  • Changing presser foot and adjusting pressure as needed.
  • Evaluating the compatibility of weights of top threads and bobbin threads.
  • Understanding all oiling points and areas of a sewing machine that have to be cleaned and require maintenance daily.
  • Top stitching and close stitching of a variety of holsters and accessory products.
  • Plug stitching if needed.
  • Operating large, heavy-duty sewing machines. Operator must be physically able to grasp, hold, and make special maneuvers to sew heavy, difficult or complicated work.

Knowledge/Skills/Experience

  • 2-3 years of industrial sewing experience preferred.
  • Requires basic math skills sufficient for each specialty area, which includes addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
  • Basic reading and writing skills required.

Use of Machines, Tools, and Equipment

The employee will use some or all of the following:

  • Shears
  • Various sewing machines
  • Various cleaners, oils, etc.
  • Other hand and power tools as needed

Work Environment

  • Manufacturing facility
  • Primary work area is a work station
  • Climate controlled environment
  • Attire must meet requirements as set forth in the General Safety Guidelines.

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to lift up to 30 lbs. on a regular basis and 60 lbs. occasionally.
  • Ability to pick, pinch, hold, turn, grip, grasp, feel and work with both hands, arms or shoulders on a daily basis.
  • Use of fingers, hands, arms, legs and feet to accomplish tasks.
  • Able to lift, push, pull, sit, walk, and stand as needed.
  • Ability to carry, lift, push, pull, step, climb, reach with hands and arms; bend, stoop and kneel.
  • Ability to stand or sit for long periods of time on a regular basis.
  • Ability to move quickly around in all areas of the facility.
  • High energy level appropriate to fast-paced environment.
  • Ability to work with glues, oils, and cleaners (and possibly other chemical substances).
  • Adequate vision to accomplish tasks listed in this job description, including ability to identify and distinguish colors and high level of detail.
  • Adequate hearing to understand directions.

Employees within the Stitcher 1 and 2 positions may specialize in one or more of the job duties outlined in this description. However, in order for the company to meet its obligations to its customers and adhere to its values, purpose and vision, all employees in a Stitcher 1 or 2 position must be capable, with proper training, of performing any of the job duties in this grade level three job description, or any job duties within the Production Technician III, IV or V positions.

Successful candidates will be required to pass a national background check, and drug screen prior to start date.