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

Foton Candle

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Candle Machine Operator I

Fort Smith, AR · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

We are seeking full-time Machine Operators to join our small, energetic, and fast-growing manufacturing team! You will load, operate and unload candle production machines to help us keep up with the ...

CRH

3rd Shift - Machine Operator

Poteau, OK · On-site

$14.25 - $16.75/hr

3rd Shift - Machine Operator Infrastructure Products Group Poteau, Oklahoma, United States Job ID: 527042 Non-Exempt Oldcastle, a CRH company, is reinventing what's possible in building solutions. We ...

CRH

3rd Shift - Machine Operator

Poteau, OK

$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 ...

Owens Corning

Machine Operator $23+

Fort Smith, AR · On-site

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

Air-Conditioned Control Rooms are available for operators * Exposure to materials associated with fiberglass products such as binder and glass fibers. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS * Lift/carry/move up to 50 ...

Owens Corning

Machine Operator $23+

Fort Smith, AR · On-site

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

Air-Conditioned Control Rooms are available for operators * Exposure to materials associated with fiberglass products such as binder and glass fibers. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS * Lift/carry/move up to 50 ...

Klein Tools

Rivet Machine Operator (1st Shift)

Fort Smith, AR · On-site

$16 - $20.50/hr

Education and Professional Development Assistance The Rivet Machine Operator is responsible for performing all types of machine riveting on such materials as canvas, leather, nylon web, cotton web ...

Mars

Operator 1 - Filler (Bishop)

Fort Smith, AR · On-site

Job: Operator 1 - Filler Shift: Nights Location: Mar Petcare (Fort Smith, AR) Mars Petcare is seeking Operator 1 - Filler to join our exciting pet food business at a Fort Smith, AR manufacturing ...

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Sewing Machine Operator information

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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.

More about Sewing Machine Operator jobs
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:
Sewing Machine Operator jobs near you
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.

Candle Machine Operator I

Foton Candle

Fort Smith, AR • On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

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Job description

We are seeking full-time Machine Operators to join our small, energetic, and fast-growing manufacturing team!

You will load, operate and unload candle production machines to help us keep up with the growing demand. This is a physical labor position requiring regular heavy lifting of bags weighing up to 55 pounds. It also requires good attention to detail and time management skills to keep up with multiple machines at once while carefully following the production procedures.

The position is to be filled ASAP and is subject to a 2-month trial period to ensure it's a good long-term fit both ways. After the successful completion of this trial period, you'll be eligible to take advantage of the company's health, dental and vision insurance benefits as well as have access to paid time off.

Responsibilities:

  • Operate candle production machines according to defined procedures.
  • Adhere to all standard operating procedures to maintain a high quality, clean and safe work environment.
  • Regularly lift and handle material in 55lb bags.

​Qualifications:

  • Reliable, self-motivated and with a good work ethic
  • Attention to detail and ability to follow instructions closely to maintain a high quality standard.
  • Ability to handle physical workload including regular heavy lifting in a hot warehouse.
  • Available to work full-time, 40 hours per week during weekdays.
  • Shares contact info of 2 references, preferably from previous employers/supervisors.

Company Description

Foton is a family-owned innovative candle business in Fort Smith, Arkansas. We found a way to make candles smarter - for us and for the environment. Foton Candles can be used to repurpose existing containers into candles, a new patent-pending concept that is endlessly customizable, safer, and more sustainable vs. traditional candles. We are looking for self-motivated team members to help support our growth and mission to bring innovation to an otherwise stale candle industry.