Knitting Technician - 1st Shift

RTP Company; Goodview (MN); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

Saint Croix Inc. in Winona, MN, a legacy luxury sportswear brand, is seeking a Knitting Technician to translate designs into high-quality knit fabrics and operate knitting machines. You will collaborate with the knitting programmer, design, and production teams to advance collections, ensuring quality and craftsmanship.

This 1st shift role is 40 hours per week with overtime as required. The company values technical skill, teamwork, and a passion for precision in luxury apparel manufacturing.

Qualifications

• Technical diploma or certificate in textile engineering, knitwear technology, or related field.
• 2+ years of experience operating knitting machines in fashion/manufacturing.
• Preferred certification from an accredited Stoll Training Center.

Responsibilities

• Set up, operate and maintain flatbed or circular knitting machines to produce samples and fabrics per design briefs.
• Interpret technical knit specifications and translate into machine settings.
• Troubleshoot issues to meet production timelines and quality standards.
• Monitor machines for peak efficiency without compromising quality.
• Prototype new stitches, textures, and fabric behaviors with design team.

Skills

Knitwear construction

Knitting machinery (Stoll)

Tech packs interpretation

Mechanical aptitude

Problem solving

Teamwork

English fluency

Attention to detail

Quality awareness

Education

Technical diploma or certificate in textile engineering/knitwear technology

Stoll Training Center certification (preferred)

Tools

Stoll knitting machines

Machine programming interfaces

Job description

Join a legacy of excellence at Saint Croix Inc.

where for over 65 years we’ve set the standard in luxury sportswear. Founded and still proudly headquartered in Winona, Minnesota, we are known worldwide for our handcrafted garments that combine innovative technology with timeless craftsmanship. As we continue to grow, we’re looking for passionate, dedicated individuals to join our team and help carry forward our commitment to quality, precision, and style.

We are looking for a Knitting Technician to join our team.

Job Summary

As a Knitting Technician within a fashion brand, you will play a critical role in translating design concepts into high-quality knit fabrics. You will be responsible for operating and maintaining knitting machinery, ensuring fabric samples and production runs meet design and quality standards. You’ll collaborate closely with the knitting programmer, design, development, and production teams to help bring fashion collections to life through innovative knit structures and techniques. This is a 1st shift position working 40 hours per week, with overtime as required.

• Not eligible for sponsorship**

Responsibilities

• Ability to set up, operate and maintain flatbed or circular knitting machines to produce samples and production fabrics in line with design briefs.
• Interpret technical knit specifications from knitting programmers, designers and product developers, translating them into machine settings.
• Troubleshoot knitting issues and machine faults quickly to maintain production timelines and quality.
• Monitor all machines to ensure they are running at peak efficiency without compromising quality.
• Work closely with the knitting programmer and design team to prototype new stitch types, textures, and fabric behaviors (e.g., drape, stretch, density).
• Conduct fabric testing and adjustments to ensure visual and tactile qualities align with the brand's standards.
• Perform regular preventive maintenance on machines to ensure continuous, high-quality output. (Oiling, cleaning, needle replacement, etc.)
• Maintain clear records of machine settings, yarn usage, sample development, and production outcomes.
• Verify proper yarn inventory for work order such as fiber content, color/dye lot consistency.
• Participate in quality control processes to inspect finished knit pieces for defects or inconsistencies.
• Stay informed about emerging knitting technologies and trends in knitwear manufacturing.
• Assist in training new technicians and retrain existing technicians or operators.
• Work with Floor Supervisors to maintain a safe and enjoyable work environment.
• Other duties/responsibilities as assigned, or apparent.

Skills and Abilities

• Strong understanding of knitwear construction, yarn types, and garment finishing processes.
• Proficiency with knitting machinery such as Stoll, or similar.
• Ability to interpret knitwear tech packs and garment specifications.
• Attention to detail and sensitivity to fabric aesthetics and brand identity.
• Basic computer skills, especially for machine programming interfaces and record-keeping.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to troubleshoot.
• Ability to work independently as well as in a team environment.
• Excellent organizational, planning and prioritization skills.
• Exhibits strong problem solving, deductive reasoning and decision‑making skills.
• Attendance is an essential function of the position.
• Must be able to read, write and speak English.

Education And Experience

• Technical diploma or certificate in textile engineering, knitwear technology, or a related field.
• 2+ years of experience operating knitting machines within a fashion or apparel manufacturing environment.
• Prefer certification from an accredited Stoll Training Center.
• Experience in sampling and rapid prototyping for seasonal collections.
• Understanding of garment production lifecycles from sampling to bulk production.

Regularly

• Required to stand for extended periods of time (8-10 hours).
• Good vision – strong peripheral vision when working on knitting beds, ability to differentiate color and see fine details in knit structure.
• Good hand finger dexterity to tie strings, replace needles.

Frequently

• Talk and hear to coordinate day-to‑day knitting activities.
• Must be able to reach above your head to string up machines.
• Must be able to squat to inspect knits and maintain the machine.
• Lift 5-10 pounds.

Occasionally

• Operates copier, computer and other office equipment.
• Need to lift or move yarns and fabric rolls.
• Lift and/or move up to 50 lbs.

Summary

Join the Legacy of Craftsmanship at Saint Croix Inc. For over 65 years, Saint Croix Inc. has been a symbol of timeless elegance and unparalleled craftsmanship. Founded in the heart of Winona, MN, this distinguished company has remained at the forefront of the luxury sportswear industry, creating handcrafted sweaters, sport coats, shirts, outerwear, and accessories that are cherished around the world. What began as a small, passionate operation has grown into a renowned name, respected for its commitment to excellence and quality. Each Saint Croix garment is carefully crafted, blending cutting‑edge knitting technology with the expert touch of skilled artisans, ensuring that every piece is nothing short of perfection. From the first stitch to the final finishing, the dedication to craftsmanship is evident in every garment we produce. At Saint Croix, we don’t just create clothing – we craft works of art that reflect the highest standards of luxury and comfort. We’re more than just a manufacturer; we’re a community of craftsmen, designers, and innovators working together to create something extraordinary. Saint Croix, Inc., is a fully owned subsidiary of RTP Company. RTP Company is a global compounder of custom‑engineered thermoplastics headquartered in Winona, Minnesota.

EOE, including disability/vets; All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.