Knitwear Machine Operator (Shima & Stoll) - Part-Time

Knitster LDN; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 21,000 - 26,000; Part time

Job summary

Knitster LDN is seeking an experienced Shima & Stoll Knitting Machine Operator in London’s Leyton studio. This part-time, shift-based role runs 3–6 months with potential extension. You will operate Shima and Stoll computerised knitting machines across sampling and production, supporting programmers and the wider team.

You will set up machines, load yarns, monitor production, and ensure high-quality fully fashioned knitwear while maintaining safety and organisation in the workspace.

Qualifications

• Experience operating Shima and/or Stoll computerized knitting machines.
• Good understanding of machine knitting and fully fashioned knitwear.
• Experience with different gauges and yarn types.
• Strong eye for quality and attention to detail.
• Ability to identify faults, dropped stitches, tension issues and other knitting problems.
• Ability to work independently and with programmers and the production team.
• Desirable experience in a knitwear factory or sampling studio.

Responsibilities

• Operate Shima and Stoll knitted machines to produce fully fashioned knitwear.
• Set up machines and prepare them for production.
• Load yarn, start programmes and monitor machines.
• Check knitted panels for quality, tension, sizing and consistency.
• Identify and resolve basic machine or knitting issues.
• Collaborate with programmers to ensure correct programmes.
• Make minor adjustments to machine settings as required.
• Keep accurate records of knitting output and issues.
• Keep work area clean and organised and perform regular machine checks.
• Support panel preparation and quality control for the wider production team.
• Work to production schedules and deadlines.
• Handle premium and natural fibres with care (e.g., wool, cashmere).

Skills

Machine operation

Quality awareness

Programmer interaction

Knitwear production

Attention to detail

Tools

Shima knitting machine

Stoll knitting machine

Job description

Knitster LDN is seeking an experienced Shima & Stoll Knitting Machine Operator in London’s Leyton studio. This part-time, shift-based role runs 3–6 months with potential extension. You will operate Shima and Stoll computerised knitting machines across sampling and production, supporting programmers and the wider team.

You will set up machines, load yarns, monitor production, and ensure high-quality fully fashioned knitwear while maintaining safety and organisation in the workspace.