1

Sewing Machine Operators Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Production/Sewing

Camarillo, CA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Job Title: Sewing Operator Pay Rate: $18/hr to $19/hr We are seeking a skilled Sewing Machine Operator to manufacture high-quality radiation protection aprons used in medical and industrial ...

Sewer

Garden Grove, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $19/hr

Candidates must have experience operating industrial sewing machines in a manufacturing environment. This position requires attention to detail, quality workmanship, and the ability to meet ...

The Single Needle Sewing Operator is responsible for accurately centering and sewing the back size label onto garments using a single-needle sewing machine. The operator ensures each garment meets ...

New

The Single Needle Sewing Operator is responsible for accurately centering and sewing the back size label onto garments using a single-needle sewing machine. The operator ensures each garment meets ...

New

The Single Needle Sewing Operator is responsible for accurately centering and sewing the back size label onto garments using a single-needle sewing machine. The operator ensures each garment meets ...

New

Sewing Associate

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Contribute to specialty projects, and other tasks as needed OUR REQUIREMENTS * 3+ years of experience operating industrial sewing machines in furniture production, sewing, or a related field

next page

Showing results 1-20

Sewing Machine Operators information

See California salary details

$9

$16

$21

How much do sewing machine operators jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 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?

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.

What is a sewing machine operator?

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 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 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, 3% 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.

Industrial Sewing Machine Operator

PrideStaff

Westminster, CA • On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Sewing Machine Operators needed for a firefighter gear cleaning and repair maintenance company in Westminster.
Temporary to Hire position paying $21-23hr, depending on experience, plus great benefits including health, dental, life insurance, STD, and optional LTD.  There is also a 401 (k) program with a company match of up to 3% of income. Hours are flexible, starting between 6:00 AM and 7:00 AM and working until 2:30 PM or 3:30 PM.  Must be able to pass a drug and background check prior to start.  
As a Sewing Machine Operator & Repair Specialist, you will repair firefighter gear to meet our customers' specifications and expectations. You will ensure high levels of customer satisfaction, efficient service delivery, and the maintenance of high-quality standards. You can help save lives.
Core Responsibilities:

  • Operate a sewing machine. Single, double, or multi-needle serger.
  • Sew repairs to gear in accordance with company best practices.
  • Prepare the machine by changing needles and thread, and oiling and changing the bobbin. Mount sewing machine attachments, such as needles, threads, and pattern plates, and adjust machine guides as needed.
  • Meet delivery deadlines by working with the team to ensure firefighter gear is repaired on time.
  • Maintain cleanliness and good housekeeping in sewing area.
  • Other duties as needed.


Requirements:

  • 1+ years of work experience with industrial sewing equipment.
  • Basic knowledge of sewing principles and garment construction.
  • Positive attitude and demonstrated ability to work well with a team.
  • Good attendance record.
  • Strong problem-solving skills.
  • Self-motivated and organized.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, time-sensitive environment and to meet all deadlines.

PrideStaff logo

About PrideStaff

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Accountability of local ownership along with the resources and expertise that the $200m national organization of PrideStaff backing us has. Therese is involved in all day-to-day operations. She leads a dynamic team of recruiters who together are focused on ensuring both clients and candidates have an exceptional experience. When you call the office, it is not unusual that Therese will answer the phone. Along with her team, she conducts interviews and helps with the hiring process. Additionally, PrideStaff’s 80+ other locations across the United States gives us resources not available to most other local staffing firms. It’s not what we say about ourselves that matters…it’s what has been said in our over 3,800 client testimonials that we’ve received over the years that matters.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Fresno, CA, US