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Sewing Machine Operators Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

... Sewing Machine Operators . Sunset West specializes in luxury outdoor furniture for residential and hospitality markets. Hooker Furnishings , celebrating over a century in business, is a designer ...

... Sewing Machine Operators . Sunset West specializes in luxury outdoor furniture for residential and hospitality markets. Hooker Furnishings , celebrating over a century in business, is a designer ...

Sewing Machine Operator

Fontana, CA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Our client is seeking a Sewing Machine Operator to join their team! This is a full time opportunity. $19.00 to $20.00 per hour (DOE) Key Responsibilities: • Set up, operate, and maintain textile ...

Sewing Machine Operator

Ontario, CA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Our client is seeking a Sewing Machine Operator to join their team! This is a full time opportunity. $19.00 to $20.00 per hour (DOE) Key Responsibilities: • Set up, operate, and maintain textile ...

Sewing Machine Operator

Pomona, CA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Our client is seeking a Sewing Machine Operator to join their team! This is a full time opportunity. $19.00 to $20.00 per hour (DOE) Key Responsibilities: • Set up, operate, and maintain textile ...

Sewing Machine Operator

Chino, CA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Our client is seeking a Sewing Machine Operator to join their team! This is a full time opportunity. $19.00 to $20.00 per hour (DOE) Key Responsibilities: • Set up, operate, and maintain textile ...

Our client is seeking a Sewing Machine Operator to join their team! This is a full time opportunity. $19.00 to $20.00 per hour (DOE) Key Responsibilities: • Set up, operate, and maintain textile ...

We are currently seeking a regular full-time Sewing Machine Operator. This individual is responsible for sewing and assembling products using approved samples, Bills of Materials (BOMs), detailed ...

Sewing Machine Operator

Tracy, CA · On-site

$35K - $42K/yr

We are currently seeking a regular full-time Sewing Machine Operator. This individual is responsible for sewing and assembling products using approved samples, Bills of Materials (BOMs), detailed ...

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Sewing Machine Operators information

See California salary details

$9

$16

$21

How much do sewing machine operators jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for sewing machine operators in California is $16.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $17.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Sewing Machine Operators face on the job, and how can they be addressed?

Sewing Machine Operators often face challenges such as handling repetitive tasks, meeting production quotas, and maintaining accuracy under tight deadlines. Working with various fabrics and machine types can also pose difficulties, especially when troubleshooting machine malfunctions or adjusting to new product specifications. To address these, operators benefit from ongoing training, effective communication with supervisors and maintenance teams, and adopting ergonomic practices to reduce fatigue. Many employers also encourage teamwork and cross-training, which helps operators support each other and adapt quickly to changing production needs.

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 proficiency in operating industrial sewing machines, a keen eye for detail, and an understanding of textiles and garment construction, often demonstrated through vocational training or experience. Familiarity with different types of sewing equipment, maintenance tools, and sometimes computerized sewing systems is typically required. Manual dexterity, patience, and the ability to follow instructions precisely are essential soft skills that set top operators apart. These skills and qualities ensure the production of high-quality garments, minimize errors, and contribute to efficient workflow in manufacturing environments.

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 textile settings, often requiring attention to detail and familiarity with sewing equipment.

What are Sewing Machine Operators?

Sewing Machine Operators are skilled workers who use industrial sewing machines to stitch, join, reinforce, or finish various types of garments, textiles, or upholstery. They follow patterns or specifications to assemble fabric pieces, ensuring durability and quality. These professionals often work in manufacturing settings, such as clothing factories, and may also be responsible for basic machine maintenance and quality control. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and knowledge of different fabrics and stitching techniques are important skills for this role.

What is a sewing machine operator called?

A sewing machine operator is a worker who uses sewing machines to assemble, repair, or create textiles and garments. They typically need knowledge of sewing techniques, attention to detail, and may operate various types of sewing equipment in manufacturing or tailoring environments.

What is the difference between Sewing Machine Operators vs Textile Workers?

AspectSewing Machine OperatorsTextile Workers
CredentialsNone specific, some may have high school diplomaHigh school diploma or equivalent often required
Work EnvironmentFactories, sewing rooms, production linesTextile mills, fabric production facilities
Industry UsageClothing, upholstery, accessories manufacturingFiber, yarn, fabric production
Job FocusOperating sewing machines to assemble productsProcessing raw materials into fabric or yarn

While both roles are essential in the textile industry, Sewing Machine Operators focus on sewing and assembling finished products, whereas Textile Workers are involved in producing raw textile materials. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What is the highest paying machine operator job?

The highest paying machine operator jobs are often in specialized industries such as aerospace, pharmaceuticals, or manufacturing of complex machinery, where operators may earn higher wages due to technical skills and certifications. Roles involving CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines or operating advanced automation equipment tend to offer higher salaries compared to basic machine operation positions.

Is it hard to be a sewing machine operator?

Sewing machine operators typically need basic sewing skills, attention to detail, and the ability to follow patterns and instructions. The job can involve repetitive tasks and working in a fast-paced environment, but it generally does not require advanced education or extensive training. Certification or on-the-job training may be provided to improve skills and efficiency.
What job categories do people searching Sewing Machine Operators jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Sewing Machine Operators jobs in California are:
Infographic showing various Sewing Machine Operators job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,339 per year, or $16 per hour.
Sewing Machine Operator

$19/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Sewing Machine Operator
Sunset West, a division of Hooker Furnishings Corporation, is currently recruiting Sewing Machine Operators. Sunset West specializes in luxury outdoor furniture for residential and hospitality markets. Hooker Furnishings, celebrating over a century in business, is a designer, marketer, and importer of case goods, leather, fabric-upholstered, and outdoor furniture.
 We are looking for a dependable individual with great attention to detail to join our sewing team.
Main duties include, but are not limited to:
  • Operate industrial sewing machine to join cut fabric parts to fabricate upholstery coverings
  • Sort the fabric and pieces
  • Read and understand work ticket for identifying order details
Candidates that will be a great fit will:
  • Have previous sewing experience
  • Be able to work seated 8 hours a day and work independently
  • Have a strong attention to detail and desire to sew not just quantity, but high quality
Why should you apply?
· A company committed to DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) values
· Competitive compensation and incentive plan
· Competitive PTO plan
· 8 paid holidays and 2 floating holidays.
· Comprehensive medical, dental, vision plans including a generous employer health saving account (HSA) contribution each plan year
· Matching 401k employer contributions 
· A caring, family-focused culture

Shift: Monday-Friday 8-hour shift. Overtime opportunities available.
Pay: Starting wage $19 plus incentive pay
Hooker Furnishings Corporation provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.