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Sewing Machine Operator Jobs in Charleston, SC (NOW HIRING)

Charleston Uniform

FABRIC WORKER

Goose Creek, SC · 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 ...

Palmetto State Armory L

Machine Operator

Summerville, SC · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

A machine operator will run machining equipment and is responsible for the loading/unloading, measuring, and making routine dimensional adjustments. Machine Operators must follow all operator ...

Palmetto State Armory L

Machine Operator

Summerville, SC · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

A machine operator will run machining equipment and is responsible for the loading/unloading, measuring, and making routine dimensional adjustments. Machine Operators must follow all operator ...

Palmetto State Armory L

Machine Operator

Summerville, SC · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

A machine operator will run machining equipment and is responsible for the loading/unloading, measuring, and making routine dimensional adjustments. Machine Operators must follow all operator ...

Sew Fabulous LLC

Be Seen First

Embroidery Machine CNC Operator

Summerville, SC · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Operate commercial embroidery machines in a production environment * Hoop garments accurately and ... Support team members as needed * Assist with light sewing tasks when required * Maintain a clean ...

All JobsSewing Machine Operator JobsSewing Machine Operator Jobs in Charleston, SC

Sewing Machine Operator information

See Charleston, SC salary details

$8

$15

$20

How much do sewing machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for sewing machine operator in Charleston, SC is $15.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.51 and $16.20 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.
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For Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Charleston, SC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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Sewing Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sewing Machine Operator job openings in Charleston, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,613 per year, or $15.2 per hour.

Sewing Machine Operator

Allegiance Flag Supply

Charleston, SC • On-site

$18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Allegiance Flag Supply is a values-driven American manufacturer dedicated to producing the highest-quality American flags in the world. We believe craftsmanship matters, details matter and the people who build our products matter most.
Our team works with energy, pride and purpose. Every flag that leaves our facility represents American manufacturing done the right way.
If you enjoy working hard, moving fast, and being part of a team building something meaningful, you'll fit right in here.
Please Note
Only applicants who complete the Culture Index survey will be considered for this position.
You can find the assessment below:
https://go.cultureindex.com/p/CEqo7hTnkCAVNhvj
Applications submitted without completing the survey will not be reviewed.
The Opportunity
Allegiance Flag Supply is hiring team members for our Weekday Manufacturing Shift. This schedule allows you to work a focused four-day week while enjoying a three-day weekend every week.
Schedule
Monday - Thursday
6:00 AM - 4:30 PM
No night shifts
If you thrive in a fast-paced production environment, enjoy teamwork, and take pride in quality work, this is a great opportunity to join a growing American manufacturer.
Who Thrives Here
We are looking for individuals who bring energy, reliability, and pride in their work.
Successful candidates typically:
  • Have experience working in a fast-paced manufacturing or production environment
  • Are comfortable learning and operating industrial equipment (training provided)
  • Take pride in precision, quality and craftsmanship
  • Enjoy working in a team-based environment where coordination matters
  • Show up reliable, punctual and ready to contribute every day
  • Are able to stand for extended periods and lift up to 30 lbs

How the Role Works
You will work as part of one of our sewing departments, where team members rotate between 2-3 production stations that contribute to the assembly of a finished flag.
This is a team-driven manufacturing process where collaboration and coordination are essential to meeting daily and quarterly production goals while maintaining Allegiance's high quality standards.
Depending on the station, you may work with equipment such as:
  • Industrial sewing machines
  • Hot knives
  • Grommet machines
  • Patch machines

Throughout production, team members also inspect flags at each stage to ensure quality and accuracy.
Bonus Experience (Not Required)
  • Industrial sewing machines
  • Double needle lockstitch machines
  • Bar tack machines

What You'll Do
  • Work as part of a high-energy manufacturing team
  • Rotate between production stations supporting the assembly of finished flags
  • Operate and maintain industrial equipment
  • Inspect products to ensure precision and quality
  • Help produce premium American flags with exceptional craftsmanship

Benefits
  • $18/hr
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Parental leave
  • Employee discount
  • Professional development assistance
  • Cost of living compensation increases 2x a year!

Requirements
  • Ability to relocate to North Charleston, SC 29420 before starting
  • In-person role

If you want to be part of a hardworking team building something meaningful and enjoy a three-day weekend every week, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply