How much does a Sewing Machine Operator make?
A Sewing Machine Operator makes a good living with a yearly salary that averages around $34,234. This means they earn a steady income every year. Their pay can range widely depending on their experience, skills, and where they work. These workers often start at lower pay and can earn more as they gain more skills.
To break it down, here’s how salaries break out:
- 10% earn about $24,750 or less
- 20% earn between $24,750 and $29,341
- 30% earn between $29,341 and $33,932
- 40% earn between $33,932 and $38,523
- 50% earn between $38,523 and $43,114
- 60% earn between $43,114 and $47,705
- 70% earn between $47,705 and $50,000
- 80% earn up to $50,000 or more
What are the highest paying cities for a Sewing Machine Operator?

-
Portland, OR
Average Salary: $40,909
In Portland, you'll find a vibrant job market with many opportunities in the apparel and craft industries. Companies like Nike and Levi's look for skilled operators to keep their production lines running smoothly. The city's focus on sustainability often means working with eco-friendly materials.
Find Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Portland, OR
-
Salt Lake City, UT
Average Salary: $37,913
Salt Lake City offers a stable job market with opportunities in both manufacturing and custom sewing services. Local companies like Under Armour and Z Gallerie are always in need of skilled hands. The city's growing fashion scene provides a dynamic environment for creative professionals.
Find Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Salt Lake City, UT
-
Las Vegas, NV
Average Salary: $36,481
Las Vegas is home to a bustling garment industry, especially around fashion shows and events. Companies like Forever 21 and Victoria's Secret source their products from local factories. The fast-paced environment offers many learning opportunities for newcomers.
Find Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Las Vegas, NV
-
Madison, WI
Average Salary: $36,412
Madison offers a mix of manufacturing jobs and opportunities in custom garment production. Companies like Lands' End and Ralph Lauren rely on skilled operators to meet high-quality standards. The city's diverse economy provides a stable job market for operators.
Find Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Madison, WI
-
Dallas, TX
Average Salary: $35,357
Dallas has a robust apparel industry, with a strong demand for sewing machine operators. Companies such as American Eagle and J. Crew are always on the lookout for skilled workers. The city's growing fashion scene provides many opportunities for career advancement.
Find Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Dallas, TX
-
Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $34,226
Chicago boasts a dynamic job market with a variety of opportunities in the fashion and manufacturing sectors. Companies like HanesBrands and Nike often need skilled operators. The city's rich history in manufacturing offers a stable and diverse job market.
Find Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Chicago, IL
-
Oklahoma City, OK
Average Salary: $33,762
Oklahoma City offers a mix of opportunities in both manufacturing and custom sewing services. Companies like Under Armour and Ross Stores provide various job openings. The city's growing economy ensures a steady demand for skilled operators.
Find Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Oklahoma City, OK
-
Cleveland, OH
Average Salary: $33,449
Cleveland has a strong apparel industry, with many opportunities for sewing machine operators. Local companies like Fruit of the Loom and L Brands rely on skilled workers to keep production lines efficient. The city's manufacturing heritage provides a stable job market.
Find Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Cleveland, OH
-
El Paso, TX
Average Salary: $32,646
El Paso offers a variety of job opportunities in the garment industry, especially in manufacturing and custom sewing. Companies like J. Crew and Carter's look for skilled operators. The city's proximity to the border often brings unique market opportunities.
Find Sewing Machine Operator jobs in El Paso, TX
-
Rochester, NY
Average Salary: $32,429
Rochester features a stable job market with many opportunities in the apparel and craft industries. Companies like Nike and Levi's often need skilled workers. The city's focus on innovation provides a dynamic environment for career growth.
Find Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Rochester, NY
What are the best companies a Sewing Machine Operator can work for?

-
Staff-Up LLC.
Average Salary: $38,000
Staff-Up LLC. offers competitive pay and benefits for Sewing Machine Operators. They have locations across the U.S. with ongoing job openings in states like Texas, California, and Illinois.
-
Crown Staffing
Average Salary: $37,000
Crown Staffing provides excellent opportunities for Sewing Machine Operators. They have locations in many states including North Carolina, Florida, and New York. Crown Staffing values its employees and offers a supportive work environment.
-
Herff Jones, LLC
Average Salary: $36,105
Herff Jones, LLC offers Sewing Machine Operator positions with a strong benefits package. Their main offices are in Indiana, but they have roles available in other states as well. They provide training and career growth opportunities.
-
Covercraft Industries LLC
Average Salary: $34,865
Covercraft Industries LLC has an average salary for Sewing Machine Operators and offers job openings in Colorado and New Jersey. They focus on quality products and employee satisfaction.
-
NATIONAL SAFETY APPAREL
Average Salary: $33,193
NATIONAL SAFETY APPAREL provides a good salary for Sewing Machine Operators and has locations in Texas and California. They offer a stable work environment and focus on safety and quality.
-
Workforce Unlimited
Average Salary: $31,962
Workforce Unlimited offers various positions for Sewing Machine Operators with an average salary. Their locations include Ohio, New York, and Florida. They offer training and support to ensure job success.
-
Express Employment Professionals
Average Salary: $31,604
Express Employment Professionals provides jobs for Sewing Machine Operators with a competitive average salary. They have offices in multiple states and offer training and advancement opportunities.
-
Augusta Staffing Associates
Average Salary: $29,182
Augusta Staffing Associates offers Sewing Machine Operator jobs with an average salary. They have locations in Georgia, South Carolina, and Alabama. They focus on employee development and job satisfaction.
-
Carole Fabrics
Average Salary: $27,647
Carole Fabrics provides jobs for Sewing Machine Operators with a solid average salary. They are located in Massachusetts. They offer a friendly work environment and opportunities for growth.
How to earn more as a Sewing Machine Operator?
A sewing machine operator can increase earnings by focusing on a few key areas. Improving skills and productivity leads to better job opportunities and higher pay. One way to achieve this is by taking additional training courses. These courses help learn new techniques and improve efficiency. They also make the operator more valuable to employers.
Another factor is gaining experience in different types of sewing. Specializing in areas like garment, upholstery, or leatherwork can open up more job options. Working in high-demand industries often means higher pay. Seeking out jobs in these areas can lead to better-paying positions. Operators can also increase earnings by working overtime or taking on extra shifts. This extra time on the job can lead to bonuses and higher hourly rates. Networking with other professionals in the industry can lead to job referrals and opportunities. Building a strong professional network can help find higher-paying jobs more easily.
Here are five factors to consider for increasing earnings:
- Take additional training courses
- Gain experience in different types of sewing
- Work overtime or extra shifts
- Network with other professionals
- Seek jobs in high-demand industries



