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Sewing Machine Operator Jobs in Lexington, KY (NOW HIRING)

Smyth Sewing Operator

Versailles, KY · On-site

$12.75 - $15.25/hr

Set up and operate the sewing machine according to job specifications along with all safety ... Perform General Worker duties when not assigned to operator a machine. * Other duties as assigned ...

Smyth Sewing Operator

Versailles, KY · On-site

$12.75 - $15.25/hr

Set up and operate the sewing machine according to job specifications along with all safety ... Perform General Worker duties when not assigned to operator a machine. * Other duties as assigned ...

Smyth Sewing Operator

Wilmore, KY · On-site

$14 - $16.75/hr

Set up and operate the sewing machine according to job specifications along with all safety ... Perform General Worker duties when not assigned to operator a machine. * Other duties as assigned ...

Smyth Sewing Operator

Lexington, KY · On-site

$13 - $15.75/hr

Set up and operate the sewing machine according to job specifications along with all safety ... Perform General Worker duties when not assigned to operator a machine. * Other duties as assigned ...

Smyth Sewing Operator

Danville, KY · On-site

$12.50 - $14.75/hr

Set up and operate the sewing machine according to job specifications along with all safety ... Perform General Worker duties when not assigned to operator a machine. * Other duties as assigned ...

Smyth Sewing Operator

Danville, KY · On-site

$12.50 - $14.75/hr

Set up and operate the sewing machine according to job specifications along with all safety ... Perform General Worker duties when not assigned to operator a machine. * Other duties as assigned ...

Smyth Sewing Operator

Lexington, KY · On-site

$13 - $15.75/hr

Set up and operate the sewing machine according to job specifications along with all safety ... Perform General Worker duties when not assigned to operator a machine. * Other duties as assigned ...

Smyth Sewing Operator

Versailles, KY · On-site

$12.75 - $15.25/hr

Set up and operate the sewing machine according to job specifications along with all safety ... Perform General Worker duties when not assigned to operator a machine. * Other duties as assigned ...

Smyth Sewing Operator

Versailles, KY · On-site

$12.75 - $15.25/hr

Set up and operate the sewing machine according to job specifications along with all safety ... Perform General Worker duties when not assigned to operator a machine. * Other duties as assigned ...

Smyth Sewing Operator

Georgetown, KY · On-site

$13.50 - $16.25/hr

Set up and operate the sewing machine according to job specifications along with all safety ... Perform General Worker duties when not assigned to operator a machine. * Other duties as assigned ...

Smyth Sewing Operator

Georgetown, KY · On-site

$13.50 - $16.25/hr

Set up and operate the sewing machine according to job specifications along with all safety ... Perform General Worker duties when not assigned to operator a machine. * Other duties as assigned ...

Smyth Sewing Operator

Wilmore, KY · On-site

$14 - $16.75/hr

Set up and operate the sewing machine according to job specifications along with all safety ... Perform General Worker duties when not assigned to operator a machine. * Other duties as assigned ...

Smyth Sewing Operator

Midway, KY · On-site

$13.25 - $15.75/hr

Set up and operate the sewing machine according to job specifications along with all safety ... Perform General Worker duties when not assigned to operator a machine. * Other duties as assigned ...

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Sewing Machine Operator information

See Lexington, KY salary details

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$16

$21

How much do sewing machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for sewing machine operator in Lexington, KY is $16.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.33 and $17.21 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 Lexington, KY? The most popular types of Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Lexington, KY are:
What are popular job titles related to Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Lexington, KY? For Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Lexington, KY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Lexington, KY look for? The top searched job categories for Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Lexington, KY are:
What cities near Lexington, KY are hiring for Sewing Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Lexington, KY with the most Sewing Machine Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Sewing Machine Operator job openings in Lexington, KY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, 54% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,575 per year, or $16.1 per hour.

Sewing Associate, MFG, Kimball International - Danville, KY

Kimball International

Danville, KY • On-site

$12.50 - $14.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 hours ago


Kimball International rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

36th of 51 rated furniture manufacturers


Job description

Are you an experienced commercial Sewing Machine Operator? Have experience in production sewing? Want to work Full or Part Time Hours? National is a global leader in the industry and we are looking to add to our core team of skilled trades people. Are you up for the challenge?
This position will be full time regular DAYSHIFT hours with a full range of benefit offerings including Health, Dental, Vision, STD/LTD, 401(k), Paid Time Off and other voluntary benefits.
Sewing Operators will perform daily tasks using a range of skills including:
  • Perform all necessary sewing and assembly activity following sewing guidelines and pre-set processes
  • Check thread charts to ensure the proper thread is being used
  • Pull Parts from transportation tubs
  • Follow proper scheduling procedures
  • Inspect finished work for compliance to quality and workmanship standards
  • Document necessary information

  • Ability to follow general sewing guidelines and meet on-time expectations and deadlines
  • Ability to top-stitch is very desirable or ability to learn top stitch process
  • Ability to meet volume increase demands with good quality
  • Ability to work within a team environment to meet productivity goals
  • Ability to adapt to a managed change culture environment
  • Good relationship builder
  • Ability to motivate and work effectively in a team setting
  • Ability to read and follow directions
  • Quick to learn set up & preventative maintenance of sewing machine equipment
  • Able to comprehend and follow sewing processes
  • Ability to identify nonconformance
  • Able and willing to participate in and support a team environment
  • Enjoy working within a Behavior Based Safety program environment
  • Proven history or ability to demonstrate safe / responsible behavior, and a positive performance record (including attendance)

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