Sewing Machinists

Sewing Machinists operate industrial sewing machines to sew and finish garments and soft furnishings such as curtains.

What the job involves

  • Threading machines, inserting bobbins and positioning parts to be sewn
  • Starting, stopping and controlling speed of machines with pedals and knee levers to coordinate actions of presser feet, clothes guides, blades and other attachments, and guiding parts under needles, following edges, seams and markings
  • Changing needles and adjusting, securing and modifying attachments to machines
  • Finishing items by cutting excess material and threads
  • Operating thread trimming and other non-sewing machines
  • Inspecting stitching for defects and notifying repair mechanics of machine malfunctions
  • Performing basic maintenance such as lubrication of machines
  • May do laying up and bundling tasks
  • May ticket, label and finish work

Key values of workers in Sewing Machinists

  • Relationships

    Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to provide service to others and work with co-workers in a friendly non-competitive environment. Corresponding needs are Co-workers, Moral Values and Social Service.

  • Independence

    Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to work on their own and make decisions. Corresponding needs are Creativity, Responsibility and Autonomy.

  • Working Conditions

    Occupations that satisfy this work value offer job security and good working conditions. Corresponding needs are Activity, Compensation, Independence, Security, Variety and Working Conditions.

  • Achievement

    Occupations that satisfy this work value are results oriented and allow employees to use their strongest abilities, giving them a feeling of accomplishment. Corresponding needs are Ability Utilization and Achievement.

  • Recognition

    Occupations that satisfy this work value offer advancement, potential for leadership, and are often considered prestigious. Corresponding needs are Advancement, Authority, Recognition and Social Status.

Top skills required for workers in Sewing Machinists

  • Active Listening

    Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

  • Critical Thinking

    Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.

  • Complex Problem Solving

    Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.

  • Operations Monitoring

    Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.

  • Quality Control Analysis

    Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.