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Sewing Machine Operator Jobs in Winona, MN (NOW HIRING)

RTP Company

Machine Operator - 3rd Shift/Sheet Plant

MN · On-site

$25.35/hr

Set up, start, and operate machinery to mix, extrude, discharge, or handle materials according to operating procedures ensuring strands of material are continuous and ensure all controls for ...

RTP Company

Maintenance Technician - 1st Shift

MN · On-site

$23 - $33/hr

Maintain boiler operating logs and assist with inspections, testing, and preventive maintenance ... Knitting machine and sewing machine experience preferred. * Basic electrical knowledge preferred.

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How much do sewing machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for sewing machine operator in Winona, MN is $15.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.99 and $16.78 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 job categories do people searching Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Winona, MN look for?

The top searched job categories for Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Winona, MN are:

What cities near Winona, MN are hiring for Sewing Machine Operator jobs?

Cities near Winona, MN with the most Sewing Machine Operator job openings:

Sewing Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sewing Machine Operator job openings in Winona, MN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $32,750 per year, or $15.7 per hour.

Machine Operator - 3rd Shift/Specialty

RTP Company

Winona, MN • On-site

$25.35/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Description
This position is responsible for the set up and operation of thermoplastic extrusion equipment that blends, mixes, packages, and transportsdry or liquid materials to produce customer products.
$25.35/Hour, including shift differential.
Work Schedule:
3rd shift. The hours are 11pm to 7am with a Sunday night Start. Overtime as required, including weekend work. Employees are assigned to a rotating A or B shift.
NOTE: Training will take place on the 1st shift for 1-2 weeks. The hours are 7am-3pm M-F, except days 1 & 2 will start at 8am.
Responsibilities
  • Set up, start, and operate machinery to mix, extrude, discharge, or handle materials according to operating procedures ensuring strands of material are continuous and ensure all controls for adherence to operating/safety procedures and ISO standards.
  • Weigh ingredients to meet specifications and insert into machinery, or ensures the correct ingredients are delivered to the work area and insert pre-blended materials into machinery.
  • Monitor production and equipment to ensure safe and efficient operation.
  • Troubleshoot equipment and processing issues.
  • Examines material visually or physically to ensure conformance with established standards.
  • Transfer samples of materials to the lab for evaluation and follow instructions on any batch adjustments if needed.
  • Package the finished pelletized materials in containers and/or bags.
  • Refer issues/problems to Productions Lead or Production Managers for disposition.
  • Perform all required machine cleaning.
  • Complete and maintain all required system inputs/transactions. Responsible for data integrity.
  • Document work completed as required including logs, data reports, procedures, etc.
  • Participate in training, retraining, and continual improvement processes and methods.
  • Follows and complies with all safety and work rules and regulations. Maintains departmental housekeeping standards.
  • Material handling.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Requirements
Skills and Abilities
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-speed environment, follow standardized work process, and adhere to safe work practices in a continuous improvement environment
  • Must be able to operate/monitor equipment during operation to ensure quality production
  • Must be able to lift up to 60 lbs. regularly and stand for an 8-hour shift
  • Read and follow manuals and procedures
  • Maintain a clean and safe workspace
  • Must be dependable and have excellent attendance
  • Possess a positive attitude
  • Must be willing and able to work overtime as needed, up to every other weekend
  • Willing and able to work in temperature extremes - hot and cold
  • Must be able to pass a forklift test and a respirator fit test
  • Must be able to read, write, and speak English

Education and Experience
  • Preferred high school diploma or equivalent
  • Preferred forklift experience
  • Preferred previous manufacturing experience

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions
Regularly
  • Stand, walk, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl
  • Use hands to finger, handle or feel objects, tools or controls
  • Talk and hear to coordinate and operate equipment
  • Use of safety equipment as dictated by the work (safety glasses, safety shoes, respirators, face shields, hearing protection, gloves, etc.)
  • Exposure to moving mechanical parts

Frequently
  • Lift and/or move up to 60 pounds
  • Work in temperature extremes, wet and/or humid conditions, with dust, fumes, airborne particles

Occasionally
  • Sit
  • Handle (with mechanical equipment) up to 250 pounds.
  • Exposure to noise levels above the OSHA action level requiring use of hearing protection

Other
  • Specific vision abilities may require close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus.

Apply