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Sewing Machine Operator Jobs in Federal Way, WA (NOW HIRING)

Thorough knowledge of the set up, operating requirements, procedures, capabilities and limitations of one or more bindery machines to perform the full range of standard and specialized folding ...

Experienced Machine Operator - Level 2

Kent, WA · On-site

$19.25 - $22.75/hr

Experienced Machine Operator Weekend Shift: Friday-Saturday 5:00am - 5:30pm Uses established processes to set up, program, and operate various types of industrial grade machines to form, cut, bend ...

Machine Operator - Folder Gluer

Kent, WA · On-site

$23.25 - $36.25/hr

Thorough knowledge of the set up, operating requirements, procedures, capabilities and limitations of one or more bindery machines to perform the full range of standard and specialized folding ...

You will be responsible for setting up and operating a variety of CNC/EDM machines and equipment to produce accurate components enabling first article success on tight tolerance, high value parts. We ...

EDM Machinist (B Shift)

Seattle, WA · On-site

$26.59 - $37.22/hr

You will be responsible for setting up and operating a variety of CNC/EDM machines and equipment to produce accurate components enabling first article success on tight tolerance, high value parts. We ...

Operator I

Seattle, WA · On-site

$19.25 - $23/hr

The Machine Operator plays a key role in supporting maintenance and engineering activities at the Continental Products facility in Tukwila, Washington. This entry-level position involves assisting ...

Operator I

Tukwila, WA

$19.25 - $23/hr

Description The Machine Operator plays a key role in supporting maintenance and engineering activities at the Continental Products facility in Tukwila, Washington. This entry-level position involves ...

Operator I

Tukwila, WA · On-site

$19.25 - $23/hr

Job Type Full-time Description The Machine Operator plays a key role in supporting maintenance and engineering activities at the Continental Products facility in Tukwila, Washington. This entry-level ...

Showing results 41-60

Sewing Machine Operator information

See Federal Way, WA salary details

$10

$18

$23

How much do sewing machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for sewing machine operator in Federal Way, WA is $18.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $19.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Federal Way, WA? The most popular types of Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Federal Way, WA are:
What are popular job titles related to Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Federal Way, WA? For Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Federal Way, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Federal Way, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Federal Way, WA are:
What cities near Federal Way, WA are hiring for Sewing Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Federal Way, WA with the most Sewing Machine Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Sewing Machine Operator job openings in Federal Way, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 63% Full Time, 32% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,724 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

Machine Operator - Folder Gluer

RR Donnelley

Kent, WA

Other

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Company Description

RRD is a leading global provider of marketing, packaging, print, and supply chain solutions that elevate engagement across the complete customer journey. The company offers the industry’s most trusted portfolio of creative execution and world-wide business process consulting, with services designed to lower environmental impact. With 22,000 clients, including 93% of the Fortune 100, and 32,000 employees across 28 countries, RRD brings the expertise, execution, and scale designed to transform customer touchpoints into meaningful moments of impact.

Job Description
  • Operate a variety of Folder Gluer machines
  • Set up, adjust and operate a variety of auxiliary binding machines containing several cutting heads, control surfaces or other attachments (i.e. inkjet and mailing devices, case making & decorating equipment, folders, cutters, collators, stitchers, drills, binding/gluing machines)
  • Set up automatic bindery machines containing multiple functions and station capabilities (power paper cutters, power collators and gatherers, power folders, power speed binder) which can be electromechanically combined with other equipment and devices to produce a complete bindery and finishing unit that processes printed sheets into final books, catalogs, manuals, directories, magazines or other completed products
  • Inspect equipment for safety issues
  • May operate automatic adhesive binding machines (perfect binders) that contain numerous interrelated process stations that are fed collated sheets or signatures and perform such functions as vibrating, milling, roughening, gluing, covering and delivering or stacking completed books, magazines or catalogs
  • Make needed adjustments to coordinate the multiple work stations on a single machine
  • Direct crew though all aspects of production
  • Monitor quality, output and productivity
Qualifications
  • Ability to read and interpret written work orders or other job specifications containing bindery requirements which indicate the number and sequence of machine operations required to complete the work and to maintain dimensional accuracy in accordance with instructions provided; independently makes decisions on the type of equipment to be used
  • Must be able to calculate distances, clearances, and fits in combining machines
  • Skill in using the full range of standard and specialized tools and devices to adjust and maintain the functional accuracy and operating conditions of the bindery machines
  • General knowledge of the more complex bindery machines (i.e. fully automatic binding machines (perfect binders), multiple station collators and multiple folding units, either individually or combined) to perform the full range of standard and specialized folds of printed materials
  • Thorough knowledge of the set up, operating requirements, procedures, capabilities and limitations of one or more bindery machines to perform the full range of standard and specialized folding, collating and cutting of printed materials to complete a combined finishing product
  • Knowledge of the quality and machining requirements of various coated and uncoated types of paper stock
  • Skill in setting up and adjusting machines for finishing operations and to refine such adjustments for the weight, color, machinability and quality of paper stock being used and to prevent machining impressions on the printed materials

Additional Information

The pay range for this role is $23.25 - $36.25/hour. The actual rate of pay offered may vary based upon, but not limited to: education, skills, experience, proficiency, performance, shift, and location.

Shift Hours: 2PM - 10PM

$2.00 per hour shift differential for 2nd shift. 

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

RRD is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans

At RRD, we value innovation, authenticity, and integrity. To uphold the security and fairness of our hiring process, we ask that candidates refrain from using AI tools during interviews to ensure an authentic and secure experience. We appreciate your cooperation as we work to maintain a transparent and equitable hiring process.

All employment offers are contingent upon the successful completion of both a pre-employment background and drug screen.