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Salary

How much does a Sewing Machine Operator make?

The average salary for a Sewing Machine Operator is $33,894 per year in the US.

If you are thinking about becoming a sewing machine operator, it is good to know how much you can earn. The average yearly salary for this job is around $33,894. This means most sewing machine operators make somewhere in this range.

Here are the salary ranges for sewing machine operators based on percentiles:

  • The lowest 10% earn about $24,000 or less.
  • The next 10% make between $24,000 and $26,364.
  • The next 10% earn between $26,364 and $28,727.
  • The next 10% make between $28,727 and $31,091.
  • The next 10% earn between $31,091 and $33,455.
  • The next 10% make between $33,455 and $35,818.
  • The next 10% earn between $35,818 and $38,182.
  • The next 10% make between $38,182 and $40,545.
  • The next 10% earn between $40,545 and $42,909.
  • The next 10% make between $42,909 and $45,273.
  • The top 10% earn $45,273 or more.

This information can help you understand what to expect in terms of salary. It shows that with more experience, earnings can increase. This job can offer a good income, especially for those willing to advance in their career.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Sewing Machine Operator?

Job seekers looking to become Sewing Machine Operators will find high salaries in several cities. Portland, OR tops the list with an average salary of $40,727. Other top-paying cities include Salt Lake City, UT, and Las Vegas, NV, where operators can expect around $38,000. These cities offer competitive wages for skilled professionals in this field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Sewing Machine Operator jobs, highlighting Portland, OR with the highest at $40,727 and Winston-Salem, NC with the lowest at $32,450.
  1. Portland, OR
    Average Salary: $40,727
    Portland offers a vibrant job market for those skilled in garment production. Workers here can find positions in companies like Nike, known for their global brand. With the city's focus on sustainable fashion, job opportunities can align with eco-friendly practices.
    Find Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Portland, OR


  2. Salt Lake City, UT
    Average Salary: $37,996
    In Salt Lake City, professionals can join well-established companies such as Zions Bank, which values quality craftsmanship. This city's manufacturing sector provides stable positions with good benefits, making it a great place to work with sewing machines.
    Find Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Salt Lake City, UT


  3. Las Vegas, NV
    Average Salary: $37,168
    Las Vegas boasts a dynamic job market with many opportunities in the apparel industry. Companies like MGM Resorts International offer jobs that cater to the city's constant demand for entertainment apparel. Workers here enjoy a lively work environment.
    Find Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Las Vegas, NV


  4. Madison, WI
    Average Salary: $36,636
    Madison provides a solid base for sewing machine work with companies like Lands' End, known for quality outdoor gear. The city's manufacturing sector is strong, and jobs here often come with good pay and benefits.
    Find Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Madison, WI


  5. Dallas, TX
    Average Salary: $35,567
    Dallas has a thriving job scene for those in the garment industry. Workers can find roles in major companies like Neiman Marcus, offering a chance to work with high-quality fabrics. The city's diverse market means a steady demand for skilled operators.
    Find Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Dallas, TX


  6. Oklahoma City, OK
    Average Salary: $33,762
    Oklahoma City offers many opportunities for those in the clothing industry. Companies like Sonic Drive-In provide steady work. The city's growing economy supports a range of positions with good working conditions.
    Find Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Oklahoma City, OK


  7. Chicago, IL
    Average Salary: $33,486
    Chicago's robust manufacturing sector offers numerous jobs in the apparel industry. Workers can find positions in renowned companies like Ralph Lauren. The city's diverse economy means there are always opportunities for skilled operators.
    Find Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Chicago, IL


  8. El Paso, TX
    Average Salary: $32,877
    El Paso has a growing job market for those in garment production. Companies like H&M offer jobs that combine fashion with functionality. The city's manufacturing sector is expanding, providing many opportunities for skilled workers.
    Find Sewing Machine Operator jobs in El Paso, TX


  9. Cleveland, OH
    Average Salary: $32,744
    Cleveland offers a solid job market for sewing machine workers. Companies like Goodyear, a global leader in tires and rubber products, provide positions that require skilled operators. The city's manufacturing sector is strong, offering many opportunities.
    Find Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Cleveland, OH


  10. Winston-Salem, NC
    Average Salary: $32,450
    Winston-Salem has a thriving job market for sewing machine operators. Companies like Hanesbrands, a leader in apparel, provide jobs that focus on quality production. The city's manufacturing sector is robust, offering many opportunities for skilled professionals.
    Find Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Winston-Salem, NC

What are the best companies a Sewing Machine Operator can work for?

Staff Up, LLC and Crown Staffing offer some of the highest salaries for sewing machine operators. These companies pay around $38,000 and $36,846 per year, respectively. Herff Jones, National Safety Apparel, and Express Employment International also provide competitive wages, with averages above $32,000 annually.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Sewing Machine Operator jobs, highlighting Staff Up, LLC with the highest at $38,000 and Carole Fabrics with the lowest at $27,600.
  1. Staff Up, LLC
    Average Salary: $38,000
    Staff Up, LLC offers competitive salaries for Sewing Machine Operators. This company values skilled professionals who can handle various sewing tasks. They operate in multiple locations, providing diverse opportunities.


  2. Crown Staffing
    Average Salary: $36,846
    Crown Staffing provides good pay for Sewing Machine Operators. They offer a supportive environment and various job locations. Workers enjoy a balance of stability and growth opportunities.


  3. Herff Jones
    Average Salary: $36,167
    At Herff Jones, Sewing Machine Operators earn a solid salary. The company offers a family-friendly atmosphere and operates in several locations. They focus on quality and employee satisfaction.


  4. National Safety Apparel
    Average Salary: $32,942
    National Safety Apparel provides a fair salary for Sewing Machine Operators. This company specializes in safety gear and operates in key areas. They offer a stable work environment.


  5. Express Employment International
    Average Salary: $32,193
    Express Employment International pays a decent salary to Sewing Machine Operators. They support career growth and have multiple branches. Employees benefit from a positive workplace culture.


  6. The Shade Store
    Average Salary: $32,167
    At The Shade Store, Sewing Machine Operators receive a competitive salary. They focus on window coverings and have several locations. The company offers good benefits and job stability.


  7. WorkForce Unlimited
    Average Salary: $32,147
    WorkForce Unlimited offers a fair salary for Sewing Machine Operators. They provide training and support, operating in many areas. Employees enjoy a collaborative work environment.


  8. Goodwill of North Florida
    Average Salary: $28,438
    Goodwill of North Florida pays a reasonable salary to Sewing Machine Operators. They focus on retail and operate in several locations. The company supports community involvement and employee development.


  9. Carole Fabrics
    Average Salary: $27,600
    Carole Fabrics offers a decent salary for Sewing Machine Operators. They specialize in fabrics and operate in various locations. The company values skilled professionals and career growth.

How to earn more as a Sewing Machine Operator?

A Sewing Machine Operator can find several ways to increase earnings. Working in various industries, including fashion, manufacturing, and home textiles, offers many opportunities for growth. By improving skills and seeking out higher-paying jobs, a Sewing Machine Operator can boost income. Here are some practical tips to earn more in this role.

First, gaining experience and expertise can lead to higher pay. Learning to use advanced sewing machines and mastering different sewing techniques can make a person more valuable. Specializing in areas like leatherwork, upholstery, or high-end fashion can also attract better-paying jobs. Taking courses or certifications to enhance skills can be very beneficial. Second, working in industries that demand skilled sewing operators, such as high-fashion or bespoke clothing, often pays more. Seeking positions in these sectors can increase earning potential. Third, being flexible and willing to take on additional responsibilities can also lead to higher wages. Operators who can manage multiple machines or oversee a small team may receive bonuses or higher base pay. Networking within the industry and staying updated with the latest trends can help find these opportunities. Fourth, moving to areas with a higher cost of living and stronger demand for skilled labor can increase earnings. Cities with many fashion houses or manufacturing plants may offer better wages. Finally, negotiating salary and benefits during job offers can make a big difference. Knowing the market rate for similar positions and highlighting relevant experience can lead to a better offer.

Taking these steps can help a Sewing Machine Operator earn more. With dedication and smart career choices, higher pay is achievable.

  1. Gain experience and expertise.
  2. Work in high-demand industries.
  3. Be flexible and take on more responsibilities.
  4. Move to areas with higher demand and cost of living.
  5. Negotiate salary and benefits effectively.

Currently 166 Sewing Machine Operator job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Sewing Machine Operator in the US?

Learn what a Sewing Machine Operator does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Sewing Machine Operator today.
Position
Overview
Sewing Machine Operator
166 Job Openings