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Sewing Machine Operator Jobs in Norfolk, VA (NOW HIRING)

TDI, LLC

Press Operator

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

We are hiring a Screen Print Press Operator to work out of our facility in Virginia Beach, VA. This role is ideal for someone with screen printing experience who takes pride in producing high-quality ...

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Sewing Machine Operator information

See Norfolk, VA salary details

$9

$15

$20

How much do sewing machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for sewing machine operator in Norfolk, VA is $15.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.94 and $16.73 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

What are the most commonly searched types of Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Norfolk, VA?

The most popular types of Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Norfolk, VA are:

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For Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Norfolk, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Norfolk, VA are:

What cities near Norfolk, VA are hiring for Sewing Machine Operator jobs?

Cities near Norfolk, VA with the most Sewing Machine Operator job openings:

Sewing Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sewing Machine Operator job openings in Norfolk, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 42% Full Time, 56% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,685 per year, or $15.7 per hour.

Filler Operator - 2nd Shift

Maryland & Virginia Milk Producers Cooperative

Newport News, VA • On-site

$21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Tends machines that perform packaging functions such as filling, marking, and labeling, and starts and observes machine operation to detect malfunctions.

  • Examines containers for seals, labels, weights, dates, and valves, and removes defective containers from the production line.

  • Records information related to weight, date, and label at 15-minute intervals and reports any machine malfunctions to the supervisor.

Job description

SHIFT: 2nd
HOURS: 12:00pm-8:30pm. Must be able to work overtime, weekends and holidays.
HOURLY PAY= $21.00 PER HOUR
Why you will love working at Maola®:
  • Built on over a century of dedication, Maola is always looking ahead-investing in our people, strengthening our communities, and securing fresh, local dairy for the future.
  • Join a farmer-owned cooperative rooted in integrity, sustainability, and a passion for providing fresh, high-quality Maola dairy products.
  • We prioritize your well-being with competitive pay and a comprehensive benefits package, including Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k) with employer match, Life Insurance, paid time off, and more-available within your first month.
  • Our employees are an integral part of who we are - what you do and what you think matters.

SUMMARY
Tends machines that perform one or more packaging functions, such as filling, marking, labeling. Starts machine and observes operation to detect malfunctions. Stops machine and reports malfunction to supervisor. Various machines involved in this operation such as the 30 Valve filler; Quart filler; Nep filler; Bulk filler; 18 Valve plastic filler; and the 1/2 Gallon paper filler.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Tends machine that fill pasteurized products into containers.
  • Examines containers from all lines for seals, labels, weights, dates, and valves.
  • Seals are to be checked top and bottom for stains and valves are to be checked for excess leakage.
  • Review with the lab for approvals of each product change on each machine.
  • Observes flow of milk into machine and remove defective containers.
  • Notifies foreman of machine malfunction.
  • Place containers on machine and adjust machines of various sizes.
  • Records information in 15 minutes intervals for weight, date, and label.
  • Follow all safety and food quality standards.
  • Perform organoleptic testing (e.g. sensory testing with taste, smell, touch, and sight) on finished product.
  • Other duties may be assigned. .

BASIC REQUIREMENTS
  • High school diploma, General Education Degree (GED), or International Education Equivalent.
  • Related experience preferred.
  • Manufacturing experience preferred.

COMPETENCIES
  • Communication
    • Communicate clearly and effectively through multiple channels - oral, written, visual, and non-verbal - ensuring our messages are understood and delivered appropriately, whether in-person or digitally.
  • Accountability
    • Take responsibility for actions and anticipate challenges before they arise.
    • Solve problems both within and outside of departments, proactively addressing issues as they occur.
  • Customer Focused
    • Prioritize understanding and meeting both internal and external customer needs.
    • Ensure high levels of satisfaction and loyalty by anticipating customer requirements and striving for exceptional service.
  • Initiative
    • Proactive in identifying opportunities and addressing potential threats.
    • Act independently and decisively, rather than waiting for situations to demand action.
  • Problem-Solving
    • Possess the ability to identify and address complex issues with minimal guidance.
    • Skilled at analyzing challenges and finding practical, effective solutions.
  • Collaboration
    • Take responsibility for deliverables while also supporting others to ensure that collective goals are met.
    • Able to work harmoniously with others toward a common goal, recognizing and valuing each person's contributions, is fundamental to successful collaboration.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk and hear. The employee is frequently required to stand and walk. The employee must be able to reach, bend, extend, and lift 50-60 pounds. It also requires reaching and handling dairy products and pushing and pulling stacks of products weighing up to 200lbs.
The employee is frequently required to perform organoleptic assessments. This requires the acute physical ability to taste, smell, see, and feel product samples to detect deviations in flavor, aroma, color, and texture.
The employee must be physically able to consume and evaluate a wide variety of food ingredients, including potential allergens (e.g., diary, wheat, soy, nuts) processed in the facility.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • The work environment may require working in the cooler room with varying degrees of temperature and may include contact with water or dairy liquids.
  • Exposed to a noise level of 90 decibels. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate/high. Wet/slippery work conditions.

Maola Local Dairies® is a farmer-owned cooperative sustainably producing a full suite of nutritious dairy products. Maola processes milk, cream, butter, and dry milk powders through our network of six dairy processing plants. With a keen eye on quality, freshness, and love for the environment, Maola delivers dairy products that are both nutritious and sustainable to our local communities. For more information about Maola, please visitwww.maolamilk.com.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected status.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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