Sewing Machine Operators
Description OES Code: 92717
Operate or tend sewing machines to perform garment sewing operations, such as joining, reinforcing, or decorating garments or garment parts. Include sewing machine operators and tenders who perform specialized or automatic sewing machine functions, such as buttonhole making or tacking.

Wages, California
Entry-Level Hourly Wage minimum
25th Percentile minimum
50th Percentile $7.08
75th Percentile $8.45

Wages, San Joaquin County
Entry-Level Hourly Wage $6.95
25th Percentile $7.33
50th Percentile $8.20
75th Percentile $9.50

Wages by California County
• OES Survey
• CCOIS Survey

Hours & Benefits
Full-time work ranges from 35 to 40 hours per week. Benefits can include paid holidays, vacations, health and life insurance, and child care.

Employment Trends, California
Employment 1998 77,200
Projected Employment 2008 84,100
Percent Change 1998-2008 8.9%
Separations 1998-2008 11,000

Employment Trends, San Joaquin County
Employment 1999 110
Projected Employment 2006 130
Percent Change 1999-2006 18.2%
Separations 1999-2006 10

Employment Trends by California County

Working Conditions
While many shops are in old uncomfortable buildings, others are in modern buildings that have big workrooms, good ventilation and lighting, and air conditioning. Most employees sit when they sew, but the work can be tiring depending on the weight of the fabric and depending on what they are making. The work is done fast and many chores are boring. Operators work alone, but very near fellow workers. The material to be sewn is brought to them and put in baskets or separate piles so each piece can be reached while sitting at the machine. This process makes for smooth and efficient operations. Operators have to do some lifting. Many shops are not unionized, but some have contracts with the International Ladies Garment Workers of America or the Amalgamated Garment Workers of America.

Advancement
Operators who know all the sections and have mastered the skill of sewing the whole article of clothing may become sample makers, instructors, or forepersons. These workers get an hourly or weekly salary that is a little above the earnings of piecework operators, but they are free from the pressures of piecework, and they usually have steady work during the slack seasons, as well as in busy times.

Getting the Job & Other Information
Job hunters should apply directly to employers, look at the classified ads of the newspaper, or register with offices of the California Employment Development Department.

For a list of current job listings, browse CalJOBS or America's Job Bank.

Education and Training
Education is not needed to be hired as a Sewing Machine Operator; neither is the ability to speak English. Some employers prefer persons who have experience or training on power sewing machines. Training is offered at many community adult schools, regional occupational centers, or trade schools. Sewing Machine Operators are usually trained on the job under the supervision of a foreperson or an experienced worker. A beginner may be assigned to work automatic machines to develop the right moves and timing. The length of time required to achieve a good speed and a decent quality of production depends on individual ability.

Skills & Other Requirements
The machines are worked by foot pedals and knee levers. Certain kinds of foot and leg ailments are not a handicap for this work. However, Sewing Machine Operators must have full and free use of their hands and arms, and they must be able to see well with or without glasses.

References
California Occupational Guide: #146

Related Occupation: Upholsterers, Drapery Occupations

Training: California Training and Education Providers (CTEP)