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Sewing Machine Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sewing Machine Operator

Waterloo, NY · On-site

$16 - $16.50/hr

Join our team as a Sewing Machine Operator and help create high-quality textile products that support meaningful outcomes for our customers and community. As a Sewing Machine Operator, you'll work ...

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Sewing Machine Operator

Albany, GA

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

The Sewing Machine Operator works onsite at a government-leased facility in Albany, GA, in support of the Marine Corps Consolidated Storage Program (CSP). The primary objective of the CSP is to ...

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Sewing Machine Operator

Cleveland, OH · On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

Experienced Sewing Machine Operators Needed! Come join our team! Looking for someone that has experience with a sewing machine. Must be interested in working in a warehouse setting. Comfortable ...

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Sewing Machine Operator

Albany, GA · On-site

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

The Sewing Machine Operator works onsite at a government-leased facility in Albany, GA, in support of the Marine Corps Consolidated Storage Program (CSP). The primary objective of the CSP is to ...

New

Sewing Machine Operator

Albany, GA · On-site

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

The Sewing Machine Operator works onsite at a government-leased facility in Albany, GA, in support of the Marine Corps Consolidated Storage Program (CSP). The primary objective of the CSP is to ...

Sewing machine operator

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$10 - $12/hr

Sewing machine operator needed, full time position in a fast paced environment. Experience preferred but will train the right person. We manufacture period costumes, robes for Masonic and Fraternal ...

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Sewing machine operator

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$10 - $12/hr

Sewing machine operator needed, full time position in a fast paced environment. Experience preferred but will train the right person. We manufacture period costumes, robes for Masonic and Fraternal ...

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Sewing Machine Operator

Savannah, GA · On-site

$14 - $16.75/hr

POSITION DESCRIPTION The Sewing Machine Operator is responsible for performing precise alterations, repairs, and finishing work on U.S. Marine Corps uniforms and related garments using industrial ...

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Sewing Machine Operator information

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How much do sewing machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for sewing machine operator in the United States is $16.24, 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 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 annual wage of around $30,000 to $35,000, with wages varying based on experience, location, and industry. Many operators work full-time in manufacturing or apparel production environments, often requiring attention to detail and familiarity with sewing machines and patterns.

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 standing for long periods and operating machinery safely, with some positions requiring basic skills or certifications. Overall, it can be straightforward for those with steady hands and focus, but it may be challenging for individuals who struggle with repetitive tasks or fine motor skills.

What skills do you need to be a sewing machine operator?

A sewing machine operator needs good manual dexterity, attention to detail, and the ability to follow patterns and instructions accurately. Basic math skills are important for measuring and cutting fabric, and familiarity with sewing machines and safety procedures is essential. Strong focus and the ability to work efficiently are also valuable in this role.

Can you make a living off of sewing?

Sewing machine operators can earn a steady income, especially with experience and specialized skills. However, wages vary based on location, industry, and level of expertise, and many operators work full-time in manufacturing or textile settings to support themselves financially.

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 are Sewing Machine Operators?

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 cities are hiring for Sewing Machine Operator jobs? Cities with the most Sewing Machine Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Sewing Machine Operator jobs? The most popular types of Sewing Machine Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Sewing Machine Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Sewing Machine Operator jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Sewing Machine Operator jobs? For Sewing Machine Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Sewing Machine Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 59% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,781 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

Sewing Machine Operator

TACTICAL EVOLUTION GROUP LLC

Hubert, NC

$15 - $18/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

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Job description

Benefits:
  • Paid time off
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Competitive salary

We are seeking highly skilled Sewing Machine Operators with extensive experience in industrial sewing and precision manufacturing. This role requires advanced technical ability, strong attention to detail, and the ability to consistently produce high-quality work in a fast-paced production environment.
Responsibilities
  • Operate advanced industrial sewing machines (single-needle, double-needle, coverstitch, bartack, walking foot, etc.)
  • Interpret pattens drawings and assembly instructions.
  • Assemble complex components with strict quality and tolerance requirements
  • Maintain consistent stitch quality, seam alignment, and finishing standards
  • Conduct in-process and final quality inspection
  • Train or assist less experienced operators when needed
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and organized workstation
Requied Qualifications
  • Previous experience as a sewing machine operator required.
  • Strong attention to detail and hand-eye coordination.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Ability to sew at a consistent speed while maintaining quality
  • Experience working to production quotas and quality standards