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Sewing Machine Operator Jobs in Rockford, IL (NOW HIRING)

AllStaff

Machine Operator

Huntley, IL

$17 - $20.25/hr

Machine Operator Summary: * 2nd shift (2:30 pm- 11 pm) $11.15 3rd (11pm-7am) $11.30 Transfer parts/ operate machinery Perform preventative maintenance as needed. Visual inspect product Maintain a ...

Thompson Pipe Group

Machine Operator

South Beloit, IL · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Machine Operator Job Type: Full-time Pay: $17.00+ DOE 1st Shift Mon-Thurs. 6 am to 4:30 pm. Who We Are Thompson Pipe Group is a privately held family business of engineers, contractors, and ...

PDS Tech Commercial

Machine Operator

Freeport, IL

$22.50/hr

Machine Operator - Level 1 Job Type: Full Time; Contract Location: Freeport, IL Schedule: 2nd Shift - 2:30pm-11pm Pay Rate: $22.5 What You'll Do: As a Machine Operator, you will have a direct impact ...

pds

Machine Operator

Freeport, IL · On-site

$22.50/hr

Machine Operator - Level 1 Job Type: Full Time; Contract Location: Freeport, IL Schedule: 2nd Shift - 2:30pm-11pm Pay Rate: $22.5 What You'll Do: As a Machine Operator, you will have a direct impact ...

Aerotek

Machine Operator

Woodstock, IL · On-site

$22 - $24.25/hr

Machine Operator The Machine Operator sets up and operates manual and automated saws to cut metal bar, tube, plate, and structural materials according to work orders in a heavy metals manufacturing ...

Union Special LLC

Machine Assembler

Huntley, IL

$19/hr

Assemble industrial sewing machines. * Fit parts to very close tolerances and operating requirements, involving use of small hand and power tools. * Accurately align assemblies to unit. * Mount and ...

Toppan

Machine Operator I

Huntley, IL

$24.89/hr

Machine Operator Location: Huntley (F135 Main - 11320 E. Main Street, Huntley, IL 60142) Shift: 1st Shift | 5:00 AM - 3:30 PM Pay Rate: $24.89/hour Summary Description The Machine Operator I is ...

Toppan

Machine Operator I

Huntley, IL · On-site

$24.89/hr

Machine Operator Location: Huntley (F135 Main - 11320 E. Main Street, Huntley, IL 60142) Shift: 1st Shift | 5:00 AM - 3:30 PM Pay Rate: $24.89/hour Summary Description The Machine Operator I is ...

Dickey

Machine Operator

South Beloit, IL · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

1st shift 6am to 2:30pm 2nd shift 2:30pm to 11pm EXPERIENCE SETTING UP MACHINES FOR NOTCHING, CUTTING, ETC. KNOWLEDGE OF HOW TO WORK AND READ CALIPERS, MICROMETERS, BLUEPRINTS, TAPE MEASURE POSITION ...

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All JobsSewing Machine Operator JobsSewing Machine Operator Jobs in Rockford, IL

Sewing Machine Operator information

See Rockford, IL salary details

$9

$16

$21

How much do sewing machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for sewing machine operator in Rockford, IL is $16.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $17.31 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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For Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Rockford, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Rockford, IL are:

What cities near Rockford, IL are hiring for Sewing Machine Operator jobs?

Cities near Rockford, IL with the most Sewing Machine Operator job openings:

Sewing Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sewing Machine Operator job openings in Rockford, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,809 per year, or $16.3 per hour.

Machine Operator

Midwest Packaging and Container

Machesney Park, IL • On-site

$16 - $22/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Machine OperatorLocation: Machesney Park, IL, 61115Job Description:

We are seeking a skilled Machine Operator to set up, maintain, and operate machinery in our manufacturing facility. The successful candidate will ensure the efficient running of production processes and be responsible for monitoring machine performance to prevent errors or malfunctions.

Skills and Qualifications:
  • Proven experience as a Machine Operator
  • Ability to read blueprints, schematics, and manuals
  • Strong attention to detail
  • Good communication skills
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Apply