Sewing Machine Operator

Position: Sewing Machine Operator I

Job Summary

Operate sewing machine to join, gather, hem, reinforce, or decorate articles by performing the following duties.

Sewing Machine Operator I – Entry Level Responsibilities

• Place spool of thread on spindle of machine and draw thread through machine guides, tension, and eye of needle.
• Insert bobbin into shuttle and draw thread through slot in shuttle wall, or draw thread through guide and looper eye.
• Press knee lever, depress pedal, or move hand lever to raise presser foot or spread feed cups.
• Position parts to be joined under presser foot and needle and lower presser foot.
• Start, stop, and control speed of machine with pedal or knee lever.
• Guide parts under needle following edges, seams, guides on machine bed or markings on part.
• Observe stitching to detect defects and notify supervisor or Sewing Machine Repairer when defects are caused by machine malfunction.
• Select sewing supplies such as binding, braid, cord, piping, tape, thread, welt, velcro or rope, according to specifications or color of material.
• Cut excess thread or material. Oil machine.
• Can read and understand work orders, sales orders, and drawings.
• Trained on 1 style of sewing machine.

Sewing Machine Operator II – Skilled Level Responsibilities

• Must meet all level 1 requirements.
• Trained on 2 styles of sewing machine.

Sewing Machine Operator III – Advanced Level Responsibilities

• Must meet all level 1 requirements.
• Must meet all level 2 requirements.
• Trained on all types of sewing machines.
• Helps with special sewing projects.
• Works closely with engineering for sewing specs.
• Comfortable giving direction and or leading Peers.
• Shows interest in learning additional skills.
• Shows good decision-making skills without supervision.
• Great people skills.

Sewing Machine Operator – Lead Position Responsibilities

• Must meet all level 1 requirements.
• Must meet all level 2 requirements.
• Must meet all level 3 requirements.
• Exhibits strong potential for advancement into a leadership role within the company. Possesses at least 4 of the below skills and has the ability to be trained/coached in further leadership skills. Skill set includes:
  • Clear and Direct Communication:
    They consistently communicate instructions and information effectively, ensuring team clarity.
  • Active Listening:
    They demonstrate openness to feedback and make efforts to incorporate suggestions, fostering continuous improvement.
  • Problem‑Solving and Decision‑Making:
    They think quickly and critically to resolve unexpected issues and make sound decisions under pressure.
  • Technical Expertise:
    They possess a solid understanding of the manufacturing processes within their department, enabling them to provide informed guidance.
  • Team Trust and Influence:
    They have built trust among their peers, which is essential for motivating and leading teams.
  • Proactive Time Management:
    They manage their tasks efficiently and take initiative by seeking additional work when their responsibilities are complete.
  • Safety Awareness:
    They consistently prioritize and promote a safe working environment.
  • Quality Focus:
    They ensure that standards are consistently met, maintaining high product and process quality.
  • Ability and willingness to cross‑train department employees and new employees.

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong attendance and dependability by consistently reporting to work on time and completing assigned tasks accurately. They must be able to maintain a clean and organized work environment, follow all company policies and procedures, and apply a high level of attention to detail and focus. The ability to work collaboratively with team members to support productivity and operational efficiency is also essential.

Education

And/or Experience

High school diploma or general education degree (GED); or one to three months related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and…