1

Sewing Machine Operator Jobs in Cicero, IL (NOW HIRING)

Sewing Machine Operator

Crestwood, IL ยท On-site

$17 - $20/hr

THE ROLE The Sewing Machine Operator completes custom sewing and tackle twill work accurately, efficiently and on schedule. This person operates commercial sewing equipment, follows production ...

Sewing Machine Operator

Crestwood, IL ยท On-site

$17 - $20/hr

THE ROLE The Sewing Machine Operator completes custom sewing and tackle twill work accurately, efficiently and on schedule. This person operates commercial sewing equipment, follows production ...

Sewing Machine Operator

Bedford Park, IL ยท On-site

$15 - $18.25/hr

Do you have 2 or more years of machine sewing experience? You could be perfect for this Industrial Sewing Machine Operator position at a global company in Bedford Park, IL. They have a great work ...

Prepare sewing machines by changing needles and thread, securing attachments, and placing spools, cords, or other materials on spindles. * Sew materials together by guiding fabric or other materials ...

Seamstress

Romeoville, IL ยท On-site

$19.50 - $20.50/hr

Job Summary We are seeking experienced Sewing Machine Operators to join our production team in Romeoville, IL. This position is ideal for candidates with industrial sewing experience who are ...

Be Seen First

The ideal candidate will have experience operating a JUKI industrial sewing machine and producing high-quality sewn products in a manufacturing environment. This position requires strong attention to ...

Seamstress

Romeoville, IL ยท On-site

$19.50 - $20.50/hr

Job Summary We are seeking experienced Sewing Machine Operators to join our production team in Romeoville, IL. This position is ideal for candidates with industrial sewing experience who are ...

Train new and existing sewing operators to work on specific machines and products, following the Sewing Training Guidelines. * Ensure sewing operator trainees utilize equipment safely and employ ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Sewing Machine Operator information

See Cicero, IL salary details

$9

$16

$21

How much do sewing machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for sewing machine operator in Cicero, IL is $16.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.47 and $17.40 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 are popular job titles related to Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Cicero, IL?

For Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Cicero, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Cicero, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Cicero, IL are:

What cities near Cicero, IL are hiring for Sewing Machine Operator jobs?

Cities near Cicero, IL with the most Sewing Machine Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Sewing Machine Operator job openings in Cicero, IL 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 $33,949 per year, or $16.3 per hour.

Sewing Machine Operator

Apparel Redefined

Crestwood, IL โ€ข On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Description

WHO WE ARE

Apparel Redefined is a custom apparel decoration and fulfillment company with roots going back to 1970. We combine skilled people, modern equipment and NOMOS, our proprietary operating system, to produce screen printing, embroidery, digital printing, sewing, tackle twill, fulfillment and print on demand programs for customers across the country.

We believe in grit over glamour, earned trust and doing what we say we will do. This is a hands on production environment where craftsmanship, pace, communication and accountability all matter.

THE ROLE

The Sewing Machine Operator completes custom sewing and tackle twill work accurately, efficiently and on schedule. This person operates commercial sewing equipment, follows production specifications and inspects finished garments to make sure every order meets Apparel Redefined standards.

This role reports to Production Leadership and works closely with the sewing, embroidery, heat application and finishing teams. You will fit here if you show up, move with purpose, speak up when something does not look right and take ownership of the result.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

Read and follow digital and printed production work orders in NOMOS, including garment type, placement, material, thread color, size and quantity.

Operate industrial sewing machines to apply names, numbers, patches, emblems, tackle twill, applique and other custom elements.

Set up the proper needle, thread, bobbin, tension and stitch settings for each job.

Use heat press equipment to position or tack materials before sewing when required.

Inspect garments before, during and after production for placement, stitch quality, damage and order accuracy.

Track completed quantities and move work through the correct production stages.

Keep twill, thread, needles, bobbins and department supplies organized and ready for production.

Complete routine machine cleaning and basic daily maintenance.

Report equipment problems, material shortages and order concerns before they create delays.

Support related production departments when workload requires it and maintain a clean, safe work area.

WHAT WE NEED

At least one year of commercial or industrial sewing machine experience.

Experience with Juki, Singer or comparable commercial sewing equipment preferred.

Experience with tackle twill, applique, patches, athletic uniforms or apparel decoration is a strong plus.

Ability to read and follow detailed written production instructions.

Strong attention to detail and a real commitment to quality.

Basic computer skills and comfort using a production management system.

Reliable attendance and the ability to work with urgency when deadlines require it.

Ability to communicate clearly with coworkers and production leadership.

Ability to stand for the majority of the shift and lift up to 50 pounds.

HOW SUCCESS IS MEASURED

Order accuracy of 99 percent or better.

Consistent achievement of agreed daily, weekly and monthly production goals.

Low rework, spoilage and preventable garment damage.

Orders completed on schedule with production concerns communicated early.

Work area, materials and equipment kept organized and production ready.

Reliable attendance and a consistent willingness to help the team finish strong.

PAY, SCHEDULE AND BENEFITS

Pay range of $17.00 to $20.00 per hour, based on experience and demonstrated skill.

Part time or full time, first shift schedule, Monday through Friday.

Overtime may be available or required based on production demand.

Paid time off, 401(k) and employee discount.

On site role at 4611 136th Street in Crestwood, Illinois.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Please apply with a brief work history and a summary of your sewing experience. Qualified applicants may be asked to complete a practical skills assessment on site.

Requirements

ย WHAT YOU WILL DO

Read and follow digital and printed production work orders in NOMOS, including garment type, placement, material, thread color, size and quantity.

Operate industrial sewing machines to apply names, numbers, patches, emblems, tackle twill, applique and other custom elements.

Set up the proper needle, thread, bobbin, tension and stitch settings for each job.

Use heat press equipment to position or tack materials before sewing when required.

Inspect garments before, during and after production for placement, stitch quality, damage and order accuracy.

Track completed quantities and move work through the correct production stages.

Keep twill, thread, needles, bobbins and department supplies organized and ready for production.

Complete routine machine cleaning and basic daily maintenance.

Report equipment problems, material shortages and order concerns before they create delays.

Support related production departments when workload requires it and maintain a clean, safe work area.


WHAT WE NEED

At least one year of commercial or industrial sewing machine experience.

Experience with Juki, Singer or comparable commercial sewing equipment preferred.

Experience with tackle twill, applique, patches, athletic uniforms or apparel decoration is a strong plus.

Ability to read and follow detailed written production instructions.

Strong attention to detail and a real commitment to quality.

Basic computer skills and comfort using a production management system.

Reliable attendance and the ability to work with urgency when deadlines require it.

Ability to communicate clearly with coworkers and production leadership.

Ability to stand for the majority of the shift and lift up to 50 pounds.


HOW SUCCESS IS MEASURED

Order accuracy of 99 percent or better.

Consistent achievement of agreed daily, weekly and monthly production goals.

Low rework, spoilage and preventable garment damage.

Orders completed on schedule with production concerns communicated early.

Work area, materials and equipment kept organized and production ready.

Reliable attendance and a consistent willingness to help the team finish strong.