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Trainee Sewing Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

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Trainee Sewing information

See Michigan salary details

$8

$14

$18

How much do trainee sewing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for trainee sewing in Michigan is $14.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.55 and $15.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of training and mentorship can I expect as a Trainee Sewing professional?

As a Trainee Sewing professional, you can expect hands-on training under the supervision of experienced supervisors or senior tailors. Training often involves mastering the operation of various sewing machines, learning to follow technical patterns, and practicing quality control techniques. Many employers pair trainees with mentors who provide guidance, feedback, and support as you develop your skills. You may also participate in group workshops or team meetings to share best practices and discuss production goals, encouraging collaboration and continuous improvement.

What is the difference between Trainee Sewing vs Sewing Machine Operator?

AspectTrainee SewingSewing Machine Operator
CredentialsBasic sewing skills, training programsExperience, sometimes certifications
Work EnvironmentTraining settings, workshopsManufacturing floors, factories
Job FocusLearning sewing techniques, assistingOperating sewing machines independently

In summary, Trainee Sewing is an entry-level role focused on learning and developing sewing skills under supervision, while Sewing Machine Operator involves independently operating sewing machines in a production environment, often requiring prior experience.

What are trainee sewing jobs?

Trainee sewing jobs are entry-level positions designed for individuals who are new to sewing or garment manufacturing. In these roles, trainees learn basic sewing techniques, how to operate sewing machines, and how to follow patterns under the supervision of experienced staff. The role typically involves hands-on training in stitching, fabric handling, and quality control. Trainee sewing positions are common in clothing factories or tailoring shops and provide foundational skills for a career in garment production.

What jobs can I do with sewing?

With sewing skills, you can work as a seamstress, tailor, or dressmaker, creating or altering clothing and textiles. Other options include working in upholstery, costume design, or manufacturing garments, often requiring knowledge of sewing machines and pattern making.

What jobs can you get if you know how to sew?

A trainee sewing position can lead to jobs such as seamstress, tailor, dressmaker, or textile worker. These roles involve garment construction, alterations, or fabric manufacturing and often require skills in pattern making, machine operation, and attention to detail.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Trainee Sewing, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Trainee Sewing professional, you need basic knowledge of fabrics, garment construction, and an understanding of sewing techniques, usually supported by a high school diploma or vocational training. Familiarity with sewing machines, cutting tools, and basic pattern-reading is essential in this role. Attention to detail, patience, and a willingness to learn are important soft skills that help trainees excel. These skills and qualities are vital to produce accurate, high-quality work and progress in the textile or garment industry.

How to start a sewing career?

To start a sewing career as a trainee, gain basic sewing skills through courses or self-study, and practice using sewing machines and patterns. Seek entry-level positions or apprenticeships in garment factories, fashion studios, or alterations shops to gain hands-on experience and develop your skills further.

Is sewing in demand?

Sewing as a skill remains in demand in industries such as fashion, upholstery, and costume design, especially for custom or specialized work. Opportunities for trainee sewing roles depend on local market needs and the availability of training programs, with demand often linked to the growth of small-scale manufacturing and bespoke services.
What are the most commonly searched types of Sewing jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Sewing jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Trainee Sewing jobs in Michigan? For Trainee Sewing jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Trainee Sewing jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Trainee Sewing jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Trainee Sewing jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Trainee Sewing job openings:
Trainee Sewing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Trainee Sewing job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,443 per year, or $14.2 per hour.
Full-Time Sewing Machine Operator - Lansing

Full-Time Sewing Machine Operator - Lansing

Peckham

Lansing, MI • On-site

$13.73/hr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Peckham Inc. rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

119th of 716 rated non-profit organizations

Job description

All are encouraged to apply! Join Peckham - WORK. GROW. ADVANCE.
Peckham is a nonprofit vocational rehabilitation organization. We specialize in providing vocational rehabilitation and training opportunities for people with significant disabilities, and/or other barriers to employment. If you have a disability or other barrier to employment, please be sure to fully complete the 'eligibility for services questionnaire' to help us determine the best fit and necessary accommodations for your employment needs.
If you do NOT have a disability, please complete the entire application including the questionnaire. These jobs are open to all abilities but Peckham gives preference to individuals with disabilities.
Job Description
Peckham Inc. - Apparel Sewing Apprentice Trainee
Important Details:
  • Wage: $13.73 per hour
  • Hours: 7:30 am - 4:00 pm Monday - Friday plus overtime as necessary
  • Full-Time positions only
  • Sewing experience preferred but not required
  • Location: 3510 Capital City Blvd Lansing, MI 48906
  • Why Work at Peckham - Peckham

SUMMARY
This entry-level Apparel Sewing Apprentice Trainee is responsible for accurately aligning fabric and garment components under machine needles using guides such as templates, clamps, and notches. The position involves basic sewing operations, garment handling, and quality checks. Successful candidates must complete a 2-week Apparel Sewing Training program and an initial training period.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Operate single-needle and basic automated sewing machines
  • Align and sew garment parts using guides and templates
  • Trim excess threads and prepare garments for packaging
  • Inspect garments and perform basic repairs
  • Maintain a clean and safe work environment
  • Follow LEAN and 5S principles
  • Support ISO-9001 and quality management systems
  • Participate in safety and ergonomic programs
  • Meet or exceed a 90% proficiency rating on assigned tasks
  • Perform other related duties as assigned

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  • At least 18 years of age
  • Successfully passing pre-hire sewing assessment
  • Successful completion of 2-week Apparel Sewing Training program if required
  • Successful completion of initial training period
  • Ability to count and follow instructions
  • Frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Ability to receive constructive feedback

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
  • Ability to stand, walk, handle materials, and sit for extended periods of time
  • Ability to reach with hands and arms
  • Ability to thread needles
  • Ability to see stitches
  • Ability to visually see color
  • Ability to work in an environment with moderate noise level

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While carrying out the responsibilities of this position, the employee will regularly need to stand, sit, walk, and use their hands for handling or feeling objects. Strong communication skills are essential. Asking questions and expressing concerns is critical to success. The role frequently requires sitting and reaching with hands and arms. Employees must be able to lift and/or move up to 10 pounds on a regular basis and occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision requirements for this position include the ability to distinguish colors.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. Person needs to have the ability to ask questions and voice concern in relation to work and work environment.
OTHER INFORMATION
This job description in no way states or implies all duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform other job-related duties requested by their supervisor in compliance with Federal and State Laws.
Peckham is an Equal Opportunity Employer - EEO/AA Employer/Vet/Disabled. Peckham provides equal opportunities and does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, height, weight, marital status, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. EEO is Law
EOE-Embracing Diversity to Achieve Excellence
SPECIAL NOTES
These jobs are part of the AbilityOne program, to learn more about the AbilityOne program go to www.abilityone.gov
PECKHAM IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
EEO/AA Employer/Vet/Disabled. Peckham provides equal opportunities and does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, height, weight, marital status, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION FOR APPLYING NOTICE
Federal law requires employers to provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities. If you require assistance or a reasonable accommodation to complete any part of your application please:
  • Click HERE and you will be directed to the ILRU Directory to find an agency in your area that can assist you
  • Click HERE and you will be directed to the American Jobs Center (AJC) finder to locate a center near you
  • Email us at jobs@peckham.org
  • Call us at (517) 316-4000
  • Visit us at: 3510 Capital City BLVD, Lansing, MI 48906 (M-F 8am - 4pm)

Examples of reasonable accommodations may include making a change to the application process, providing documents in an alternate format, using a sign language interpreter, or using specialized equipment.
Business Line:
Manufacturing
Location:
Lansing, MI
Worker Sub-Type:
Team Member

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