How much does a Sewing Machine Operator make?
A Sewing Machine Operator plays a key role in many industries, from clothing to furniture. This job involves using machines to sew fabric together. The average yearly salary for a Sewing Machine Operator is around $34,144. This means that, on average, someone in this role can expect to earn this amount each year. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and the type of industry.
The salary range for Sewing Machine Operators can be quite broad. The lowest 10% earn about $24,000 per year. The highest 10% earn more than $50,000 annually. Most operators fall somewhere in the middle. For example, the 25th percentile earns around $28,727, while the 75th percentile earns about $42,909. This shows that with more experience and skill, earnings can increase significantly.
What are the highest paying cities for a Sewing Machine Operator?

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Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $53,409
In Phoenix, working with sewing machines offers a chance to be part of the thriving apparel industry. Companies like Levi Strauss & Co. and Nike provide many opportunities. The warm climate makes for a comfortable working environment.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $39,678
San Diego boasts a vibrant fashion scene, making it a great place for sewing machine professionals. With companies like Levi Strauss & Co. and Nike, there are many job openings. The city's mild weather adds to the pleasant work atmosphere.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $38,201
Portland is known for its unique fashion and design. Working here means being part of a creative community. Companies like Nike and Columbia Sportswear offer many job openings. The city's laid-back vibe makes for a friendly work environment.
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Salem, OR
Average Salary: $38,000
Salem offers a quieter, yet rewarding environment for sewing machine professionals. Local companies provide steady job opportunities. The city's small-town feel creates a supportive work community.
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Salt Lake City, UT
Average Salary: $37,065
Salt Lake City has a growing apparel industry, offering many job opportunities. Companies like Columbia Sportswear and other local firms provide steady work. The city's outdoor activities make for a balanced lifestyle.
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Albuquerque, NM
Average Salary: $36,346
Albuquerque offers a unique blend of industry and culture. Local companies provide many job opportunities for sewing machine professionals. The city's diverse culture adds to the vibrant work environment.
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Madison, WI
Average Salary: $35,810
Madison is known for its strong manufacturing sector. Working here means being part of a community with many job opportunities. Companies like Jockey International offer steady work. The city's cultural events add to the lively atmosphere.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $33,823
Chicago is a hub for the apparel industry, offering many job opportunities. Companies like Levi Strauss & Co. and Nike provide steady work. The city's rich history and culture make for an engaging work environment.
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Cleveland, OH
Average Salary: $33,235
Cleveland offers a mix of industry and community. Working here means being part of a supportive work environment. Companies like Fruit of the Loom provide many job openings. The city's vibrant arts scene adds to the lively atmosphere.
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Oklahoma City, OK
Average Salary: $33,150
Oklahoma City has a growing apparel industry, offering many job opportunities. Local companies provide steady work. The city's friendly community makes for a welcoming work environment.
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What are the best companies a Sewing Machine Operator can work for?

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Herff Jones, LLC
Average Salary: $36,143
Herff Jones, LLC offers competitive salaries for Sewing Machine Operators. They provide opportunities in various locations, including Indianapolis, IN, and Chicago, IL. The company focuses on creating custom products and values skilled operators who can work with precision.
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Manpower
Average Salary: $35,079
Manpower offers attractive salaries for Sewing Machine Operators. They have positions in cities like New York, NY, and Los Angeles, CA. Manpower emphasizes a supportive work environment and offers growth opportunities for skilled operators.
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Express Employment Professionals
Average Salary: $32,776
Express Employment Professionals provides good salaries for Sewing Machine Operators. They have openings in various locations, including Dallas, TX, and Atlanta, GA. The company values skilled operators who can meet production demands efficiently.
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Onin
Average Salary: $31,831
Onin offers competitive salaries for Sewing Machine Operators. They have positions in cities like San Francisco, CA, and Seattle, WA. Onin focuses on quality and efficiency, making it a great place for skilled operators to work.
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Klein Tools
Average Salary: $31,109
Klein Tools provides good salaries for Sewing Machine Operators. They have openings in locations such as Cleveland, OH, and Denver, CO. The company values skilled operators who can contribute to their high-quality product line.
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Accurate Personnel
Average Salary: $29,818
Accurate Personnel offers fair salaries for Sewing Machine Operators. They have positions in cities like Miami, FL, and Phoenix, AZ. The company focuses on providing a stable work environment with opportunities for skilled operators.
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Belleville Boot Company
Average Salary: $28,259
Belleville Boot Company offers salaries for Sewing Machine Operators. They have openings in Belleville, IL. The company is known for its quality boots and values skilled operators who can contribute to their production process.
How to earn more as a Sewing Machine Operator?
A Sewing Machine Operator can increase earnings by focusing on several key areas. First, gaining experience and expertise in specific types of sewing can lead to higher-paying jobs. Specialization in areas like garment production, upholstery, or industrial sewing can open doors to better-paying opportunities. Continuous learning and skill enhancement through courses or workshops can also make a significant difference. Networking with industry professionals and staying updated on the latest trends and technologies can lead to more job offers and higher salaries.
Another way to earn more is by seeking out positions that offer bonuses or overtime pay. Some companies reward productivity with additional compensation. Look for roles that provide these incentives. Additionally, consider moving to areas with higher demand for skilled sewing machine operators. Geographic location can greatly affect earning potential. Finally, consider advancing to supervisory or managerial roles within the industry. These positions often come with higher salaries and more responsibilities.
Here are some factors to consider for increasing earnings:
- Specialize in high-demand areas of sewing.
- Seek jobs with bonuses or overtime pay.
- Move to areas with higher demand for sewing skills.
- Advance to supervisory or managerial roles.
- Continuously update skills and knowledge through courses.



