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Sewing Machine Operator Jobs in Fort Smith, AR (NOW HIRING)

Sewing Machine Operator (1st Shift)

Fort Smith, AR · On-site

$14.50 - $17.25/hr

Education and Professional Development Assistance The Sewing Machine Operator is responsible for operating industrial sewing machines to produce high-quality canvas products. Duties include measuring ...

... Operators perform set-up and adjustments on machines. May be required to wind bobbins and replace needles. 2. Must have extensive knowledge of materials required for sewing operations. 3. Must be ...

... Operators perform set-up and adjustments on machines. May be required to wind bobbins and replace needles. 2. Must have extensive knowledge of materials required for sewing operations. 3. Must be ...

Sewing Machine Operator (2nd Shift)

Fort Smith, AR · On-site

$14.50 - $17.25/hr

... Operators perform set-up and adjustments on machines. May be required to wind bobbins and replace needles. 2. Must have extensive knowledge of materials required for sewing operations. 3. Must be ...

Sewing Machine Operator (2nd Shift)

Fort Smith, AR · On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

... Operators perform set-up and adjustments on machines. May be required to wind bobbins and replace needles. 2. Must have extensive knowledge of materials required for sewing operations. 3. Must be ...

Sewing Machine Operator (1st Shift)

Fort Smith, AR · On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

... Operators perform set-up and adjustments on machines. May be required to wind bobbins and replace needles. 2. Must have extensive knowledge of materials required for sewing operations. 3. Must be ...

Sewing Machine Operator (1st Shift)

Fort Smith, AR · On-site

$14.50 - $17.25/hr

... Operators perform set-up and adjustments on machines. May be required to wind bobbins and replace needles. 2. Must have extensive knowledge of materials required for sewing operations. 3. Must be ...

Sewing Machine Operator (2nd Shift)

Fort Smith, AR · On-site

$14.50 - $17.25/hr

... Operators perform set-up and adjustments on machines. May be required to wind bobbins and replace needles. 2. Must have extensive knowledge of materials required for sewing operations. 3. Must be ...

Sewing Machine Operator (1st Shift)

Fort Smith, AR · On-site

$14.50 - $17.25/hr

... Operators perform set-up and adjustments on machines. May be required to wind bobbins and replace needles. 2. Must have extensive knowledge of materials required for sewing operations. 3. Must be ...

Machine Operator

Poteau, OK · On-site

$14.25 - $16.75/hr

Notifies supervisor of non-conforming product or problems with machine, materials, etc. * Communicates production issues with the next press operator, and grinds parts/scrap as needed * Read job ...

New

Machine Operator B

Van Buren, AR · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

... machine operators, painters and crane operators. May at times perform some or all of the duties of these jobs. 5. Possesses ability to solve basic math problems including the following: fractions ...

Machine Operator

Fort Smith, AR

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

Communicate with team members as needed, including a shift hand-off with previous and oncoming operator on shift review and planning * Other duties as assigned Qualifications * 1-3 years of ...

Machine Operator

Fort Smith, AR · On-site

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

Communicate with team members as needed, including a shift hand-off with previous and oncoming operator on shift review and planning * Other duties as assigned * 1-3 years of manufacturing experience ...

Machine Operator

Fort Smith, AR · On-site

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

Communicate with team members as needed, including a shift hand-off with previous and oncoming operator on shift review and planning * Other duties as assigned Qualifications * 1-3 years of ...

Communicate with team members as needed, including a shift hand-off with previous and oncoming operator on shift review and planning * Other duties as assigned Qualifications * 1-3 years of ...

Machine Operator

Fort Smith, AR

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

Communicate with team members as needed, including a shift hand-off with previous and oncoming operator on shift review and planning * Other duties as assigned Qualifications * 1-3 years of ...

Machine Operator 1 FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Department: Operations Reports to: Assistant Manager, Superintendent or Assistant Superintendent GENERAL DESCRIPTION / PURPOSE: Machine Operator 1 (MO1), a ...

Machine Operator 1 FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Department: Operations Reports to: Assistant Manager, Superintendent or Assistant Superintendent GENERAL DESCRIPTION / PURPOSE: Machine Operator 1 (MO1), a ...

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Sewing Machine Operator information

See Fort Smith, AR salary details

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How much do sewing machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for sewing machine operator in Fort Smith, AR is $15.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.94 and $16.68 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 job categories do people searching Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Fort Smith, AR look for? The top searched job categories for Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Fort Smith, AR are:
Infographic showing various Sewing Machine Operator job openings in Fort Smith, AR 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 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,601 per year, or $15.7 per hour.

Sewing Machine Operator (1st Shift)

Klein Tools

Fort Smith, AR • On-site

$14.50 - $17.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Klein Tools rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

At Klein Tools, curiosity powers discovery, ownership inspires excellence, and urgency means we run towards opportunities. We deliver quality and innovation in everything we do, designing and launching hundreds of groundbreaking products each year. Join us and be part of a legacy built to last.
Perks for you include:
  • Paid Vacations & Holidays
  • Profit Sharing & Matching 401(k)
  • Health Insurance (Medical, Vision, & Dental)
  • Discounts on Klein Tools products
  • Education and Professional Development Assistance

The Sewing Machine Operator is responsible for operating industrial sewing machines to produce high-quality canvas products. Duties include measuring, cutting, and stitching canvas materials according to specifications, ensuring precision and durability. The operator must maintain equipment, inspect finished products for quality, and adhere to safety standards. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and experience with sewing machines are essential for success in this role.
This position would help support our production facility in Fort Smith, AR during our 1st shift operations, working Monday-Friday from 5:45 AM CST until 4:15 PM CST.
Specific Responsibilities:
  • Operators perform set-up and adjustments on machines. May be required to wind bobbins and replace needles.
  • Must have extensive knowledge of materials required for sewing operations.
  • Set up and adjust machine as needed.
  • Be alert for in-process product imperfection and bring to the supervisor or lead's attention.
  • Exercise safety procedures to prevent injury to oneself and prevent damage to equipment.
  • Perform all other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:
  • Two (2) years or more of work-related experience in a manufacturing environment preferred.
  • Must possess knowledge using hand tools.
  • Demonstrate basic mathematics, reading, writing, and comprehension as well as communication skills.
  • Demonstrate a strong attention to detail.
  • Demonstrate the capacity to shift priorities.
  • Ability to work closely and effectively with all employees and management staff.

Physical Demand Requirements:
Required to stand, walk or sit; use hands to finger, handle or feel objects, tools or controls; reach with hands and arms; balance; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl; talk or hear. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move objects up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
Your main focus:
  • Quality
  • Customer Obsession
  • Innovation
  • Ownership
  • Teamwork

Klein Tools is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status. For candidates with disabilities and needing assistance, please email us at hr@kleintools.com.

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