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Sewing Machine Operator Jobs in Hickory, NC (NOW HIRING)

JBS Imports

MACHINE OPERATOR

Lenoir, NC · On-site

$18.65/hr

Description Position at JBS USA MACHINE OPERATOR 1ST SHIFT- Starting Pay $18.65/HR Location: Lenoir NC Date Posted: 06/19/2026 Category: Hourly Production Description Machine Operator JBS is seeking ...

Arhaus

Cutting Machine Operator (Mini Shift)

Conover, NC · On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

Operate the leather or fabric cutting machine efficiently and accurately to cut patterns for sewing ... Experience operating a fabric cutting machine (Gerber Z or similar systems preferred). * Ability to ...

Aerotek

Machine Operator

Hickory, NC

$22/hr

Machine Operator Join a Leading Manufacturing Team! Our client is looking for dependable Machine Operators to join our growing team in Hickory. If you enjoy working in a fast-paced manufacturing ...

New

Arhaus

Cutting Machine Operator (Mini Shift)

Conover, NC · On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

Operate the leather or fabric cutting machine efficiently and accurately to cut patterns for sewing ... Experience operating a fabric cutting machine (Gerber Z or similar systems preferred). * Ability to ...

eth

Sewer

Maiden, NC · On-site

Use small screw driver to adjust sewing machine settings to prepare for next piece. * Use sewing patterns to ensure that the fabric is lined up correctly prior to sewing parts. * Manually feed fabric ...

eth

Sewer

Maiden, NC · On-site

Use small screw driver to adjust sewing machine settings to prepare for next piece. * Use sewing patterns to ensure that the fabric is lined up correctly prior to sewing parts. * Manually feed fabric ...

Manpower

Machine Operator

Newton, NC · On-site

$20/hr

Machine Operators & Assembly Associates Needed 2nd Shift - $18/hr Starting Pay - $20.00+ when hired Newton, NC | 2nd & 3rd Shift Openings Looking for more than just another production job? Join a ...

eth

Sewer

Maiden, NC · On-site

Use small screw driver to adjust sewing machine settings to prepare for next piece. * Use sewing patterns to ensure that the fabric is lined up correctly prior to sewing parts. * Manually feed fabric ...

eth

Sewer

Maiden, NC · On-site

Use small screw driver to adjust sewing machine settings to prepare for next piece. * Use sewing patterns to ensure that the fabric is lined up correctly prior to sewing parts. * Manually feed fabric ...

eth

Sewer

Maiden, NC · On-site

Use small screw driver to adjust sewing machine settings to prepare for next piece. * Use sewing patterns to ensure that the fabric is lined up correctly prior to sewing parts. * Manually feed fabric ...

JBS USA

MACHINE OPERATOR

Lenoir, NC

$18.65/hr

Description MACHINE OPERATOR 1ST SHIFT- Starting Pay $18.65/HRLocation: Lenoir NCDate Posted: 06/19/2026Category: Hourly ProductionDescriptionMachine OperatorJBSis seeking anhourlyMachine ...

Millerknoll

Experienced Industrial Sewer

Hildebran, NC

$14.25 - $17/hr

Ability to rapidly manipulate small parts and use power hand tools, while operating the sewing machine. Proven ability to work in a flexible work environment and adapt to overtime requirements as ...

MillerKnoll

Experienced Industrial Sewer

Hildebran, NC · On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

Ability to rapidly manipulate small parts and use power hand tools, while operating the sewing machine. Proven ability to work in a flexible work environment and adapt to overtime requirements as ...

Quanex

Machine Operator

Statesville, NC

$19 - $22.50/hr

Quanex is looking for a Machine Operator to join our 3 rd Shift team located in Statesville, NC. Join a well-established industry that provides a structured pathway for long-term growth in a ...

Quanex

Machine Operator

Statesville, NC

$19 - $22.50/hr

Quanex is looking for a Machine Operator to join our 3 rd Shift team located in Statesville, NC. Join a well-established industry that provides a structured pathway for long-term growth in a ...

Quanex

Machine Operator

Statesville, NC

$19 - $22.50/hr

Quanex is looking for a Machine Operator to join our 2nd Shift team located in Statesville, NC. Join a well-established industry that provides a structured pathway for long-term growth in a ...

Quanex

Machine Operator

Statesville, NC

$19 - $22.50/hr

Quanex is looking for a Machine Operator to join our 3 rd Shift team located in Statesville, NC. Join a well-established industry that provides a structured pathway for long-term growth in a ...

Quanex

Machine Operator

Statesville, NC

$19 - $22.50/hr

Quanex is looking for a Machine Operator to join our 2nd Shift team located in Statesville, NC. Join a well-established industry that provides a structured pathway for long-term growth in a ...

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All JobsSewing Machine Operator JobsSewing Machine Operator Jobs in Hickory, NC

Sewing Machine Operator information

See Hickory, NC salary details

$8

$14

$19

How much do sewing machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for sewing machine operator in Hickory, NC is $14.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.93 and $15.48 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.
More about Sewing Machine Operator jobs

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The most popular types of Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Hickory, NC are:

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For Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Hickory, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Hickory, NC are:

What cities near Hickory, NC are hiring for Sewing Machine Operator jobs?

Cities near Hickory, NC with the most Sewing Machine Operator job openings:

Sewing Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sewing Machine Operator job openings in Hickory, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,245 per year, or $14.5 per hour.

MACHINE OPERATOR

JBS Imports

Lenoir, NC • On-site

$18.65/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Description
Position at JBS USA
MACHINE OPERATOR 1ST SHIFT- Starting Pay $18.65/HR
Location: Lenoir NC
Date Posted: 06/19/2026
Category: Hourly Production
Description
Machine Operator
JBS is seeking an hourly Machine Operator Team Member The position starts at $18.65 per hour. Pay increases once competencied on the machine.
We have various machines available: Bandsaw, Overwrap, Flow Wrap, and Bizerba
JOB SUMMARY: Associate must have the ability to make precise adjustments, basic troubleshooting skills, and modify and or create programs based on equipment, product and customer needs. Additionally, these roles are the last quality checkpoint before the product reaches both the internal and external customer. The ability to understand and communicate information is essential. Must be able to perform all job functions safely in accordance with food safety, GMP's and quality standards.
Benefits Include
  • Paid vacation and holidays
  • Medical, dental and vision benefits
  • 401(k) plan
  • Better Futures Program
  • Career development opportunities

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Prepare work area for pre- and post-operational activities.
  • Load, unload, and transfer product to and from equipment and or conveyors.
  • Monitor production lines, identify issues, supply and replenish packaging materials as necessary.
  • Sort, weigh, wrap, label, verify or measure product to meet product specifications.
  • Ensure product is properly placed in bag and properly placed in the machine to avoid seal issues.
  • Inspect and remove defective products and or packaging materials from the process.
  • Arrive at your workstation prepared to perform tasks at a scheduled time, and staying until work is complete, or until supervisor and/or manager indicate work is done.
  • Overtime may be necessary and is required when scheduled.
  • Maintain a clean and organized work area.
  • Set up, tear down of equipment, selection of pre-determined settings and use proper lifting, bending, and reaching techniques.
  • Perform other duties as assigned. Identify any safety concerns and or hazards and report them.
  • Perform Lock Out/Tag Out procedures.
  • Modify and create program settings to meet production standards.
  • Provide machine adjustments and troubleshooting when required.
  • Position requires completing and reading labels in English
  • Other duties as assigned

Qualifications
  • Must be 18 years of age or older
  • High school diploma/GED preferred
  • 2+ years' production industry experience
  • 2+ years' machine operating experience
  • Must be able to understand and comply with company, plant, and safety rules/policies
  • Basic understanding of production and procedures
  • Ability to use knives, saws, and a variety of machinery
  • Ability to use both arms and hands to lift, load, cut and package product.

Work Environment
The work environment may include cold temperatures (34 degrees). It may also require the use of sharp tools such as knives.
About JBS
JBS USA is a leading global provider of diversified, high-quality food products, including a portfolio of well-recognized brands and innovative, easy-to-use food solutions. We process, prepare, package and deliver fresh and value-added premium meat, poultry and retail-ready food products for customers in approximately 100 countries on six continents. We are also the majority shareholder of Pilgrim's, the largest poultry company in North America. JBS USA employs more than 100,000 team members, and our corporate office is located in beautiful Greeley, Colorado, where our 1,200 team members onsite enjoy more than 300 days of sunshine a year.
Our Mission
To be the best in all that we do, completely focused on our business, ensuring the best products and services to our customers, a relationship of trust with our suppliers, profitability for our shareholders and the opportunity of a better future for all of our team members.
Our Core Values
Availability, Determination, Discipline, Humility, Ownership, Simplicity, Sincerity
EOE/Vets/Disability

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