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

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 ...

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 ...

Operator 1 - Filler Shift: Afternoons (2:30pm - 11pm) 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 ...

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Sewing Machine Operator information

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How much do sewing machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for sewing machine operator in Fort Smith, AR is $15.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.04 and $16.83 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 the most commonly searched types of Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Fort Smith, AR?

The most popular types of Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Fort Smith, AR are:

What are popular job titles related to Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Fort Smith, AR?

For Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Fort Smith, AR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, and 22% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $32,860 per year, or $15.8 per hour.

Maint. Machine Operator- Packout Line 4 (DS)

Simmons Foods

Van Buren, AR

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Simmons Foods rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

153rd of 443 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

PURPOSE OF THE POSITION To ensure that all product is produced to meet specifications and established standards required by the customer and the company. ESSENTIAL POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES Responsible for daily set-up and operation of production machine. Enters product code by hand. Operates machine to production standards. Performs preventive maintenance and inspects equipment on a regular basis. Performs basic light maintenance on machine. Assists Maintenance Mechanics with troubleshooting activities as needed. Properly adjusts production machine to ensure efficiency, quality and accuracy with minimal loss of product. Maintains accurate inventory of supplies needed to operate machine. Handwritten documentation of product specs and bag usage. Participates as a member of the Team. Participates in ongoing development, communication and implementation of team concepts, programs and policies; coordinates work to ensure B.E.S.T practices with all team members. Attends appropriate team meetings. As a member of the Team, fosters strong cohesiveness regarding all major issues; e.g., direction, annual plan, budget, policy changes, etc. Accepts responsibility to quickly identify any areas that lack cohesiveness, bringing them to the attention of the team leader and working with the team in a supportive manner to resolve issues and actively look for ways, and reinforces actions needed, to achieve synergy possible within the larger organization. Simmons Operating systems principles and objectives: Is familiar with Simmons' established operating systems (e.g. quality, security, office environment, company policies); understands the responsibility to maintain familiarity with the systems and this position's role in support of these systems - including a consideration of the impact of individual actions on the systems and the responsibility to communicate concerns and improvement ideas. Performs other duties as necessary in support of business objectives: This position description is intended to guide the activities of the Machine Operator and is not intended to limit the thinking and creativity of the person to the work of this function nor is it intended that this describe all the work that may be required of the person in this position. Physical Activities: Be able to work on feet for entire shift. Bending, squatting, stooping, work in elevated areas, climb stairs and ladders. Be able to lift/move 3 - 20 pound bags of product at waist level. Be able to assist in moving 30 -- 150 lbs. rolls of plastic bags and film from cart to machine; be able to work in a cool, wet and noisy environment. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Std waterproof gloves, sleeves, hearing protection, slip resistant footwear, safety glasses, lock out lock, hasp and tag. Travel: N/A Technical Experience: Trouble shooting machines, basic mechanical and computer literacy. Industry Experience: Preference for poultry or food processing organization. Minimum Education: Be able to read, write and communicate effectively in English. Must be able to perform basic math. Must be able to demonstrate adequate mechanical knowledge via an entry-level maintenance examination. Preferred Education: High School Diploma or equivalent

For immediate consideration of hourly production positions located in the area from Fort Smith, AR to Van
Buren, AR please apply in person Monday thru Friday, between 7:00 am and 5:00 pm at:

Simmons Foods Hiring Center
4900 Rogers Ave, Suite 103-D
Fort Smith, AR
72903

In person applications at our Hiring Center receive priority consideration. You may still apply for positions
online; however please note that positions may be filled at our Hiring Center before our online
applications are reviewed

What Simmons Foods employees say

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About Simmons Foods

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Simmons Foods, headquartered in Siloam Springs, AR, US, is an established player in the global food processing industry. The company was founded in 1949 by Bill Simmons, and over the decades, it has grown to become a world leader in poultry, pet, and animal nutrition industries. Through its official website (simmonsfoods.com), the company has consistently communicated its commitment to quality, reliable partnerships, and innovative solutions. It specializes in the production and distribution of chicken, pet foods, and specialty pet snacks. Their mission is to be at the forefront of innovation in food products and to provide quality and value to customers and consumers.

Industry

Meat processing and manufacturing and animal food manufacturing

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Siloam Springs, AR, US

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