Sewing Machine Operator

Tom James Company; United States; On-site; USD 28,000 - 36,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Group medical

Vision insurance

Dental

Life insurance

10 holidays

Summer shutdown

Christmas shutdown

Pension

Incentives

Sign-on bonus

Job summary

Measure Up in Lafayette, TN is seeking an entry-level Sewing Machine Operator to join our factory team. No experience required—we train.

You will operate industrial sewing machines to build custom dress shirts, follow specifications, and maintain quality. Candidates should be reliable, detail-oriented, and able to work as part of a production team.

Qualifications

• No experience required; training provided
• Ability to operate and set up industrial sewing machines
• Strong attention to detail and quality workmanship

Responsibilities

• Operate industrial sewing machines safely and efficiently.
• Assemble shirt components following specs and procedures.
• Adjust machine settings and thread/needles for each operation.
• Maintain quality, seam allowances, and stitch placement.
• Notify supervisor of materials or spec discrepancies.

Skills

Attention to detail

Willingness to learn

Team player

Independent worker

Quality awareness

Fabric handling

Tools

Industrial sewing machines

Job description

For over 20 years, Measure Up has produced finely crafted custom dress shirts combining expert construction with fabrics sourced from the world’s most exclusive mills. Each shirt is hand made in the foothills of Tennessee, one at a time, by America’s most skilled sewing operators.

We are seeking an entry‑level Sewing Machine Operator to join our team at our factory in Lafayette, TN. We desire a highly motivated and results‑oriented individual with great organizational skills. Qualified applicants must demonstrate the ability to learn quickly. No Experience Required – We Train!

The Sewing Machine Operator is responsible for operating industrial sewing machines to construct custom dress shirts according to customer specifications, patterns, work instructions, quality standards, and production requirements. The operator must produce garments efficiently while maintaining consistent quality, accuracy, and proper workmanship.

Job Duties

Sewing Machine Operation

• Operate assigned industrial sewing machines safely and efficiently.
• Operate machines used for various shirt construction operations, including single‑needle, overlock, coverstitch, buttonhole, button sewing, and other specialized equipment as assigned.
• Set up and adjust machine settings as necessary for the operation being performed.
• Select and use the correct thread, needle, presser foot, attachments, and machine settings for the assigned operation.
• Monitor machine operation and make minor adjustments when necessary.
• Keep the sewing machine clean and properly maintained according to company procedures.
• Report machine malfunctions, unusual noises, broken parts, or maintenance concerns to the appropriate supervisor.

Garment Construction

• Sew shirt components according to established production procedures and customer specifications
• Follow approved sewing methods and construction specifications for each garment.
• Maintain proper seam allowances and stitch placement
• Ensure seams are straight, even, secure, and properly aligned
• Maintain proper stitch length, tension, and appearance
• Ensure fabric is properly positioned and fed through the machine to prevent stretching, puckering, twisting, or distortion
• Prevent defective work from moving to the next production operation
• Notify the supervisor when materials, patterns, specifications, or components appear incorrect

Custom Garment Specifications

• Carefully follow individual customer measurements and specifications when applicable
• Verify that the correct materials, components, sizes, and construction instructions are being used
• Pay close attention to special instructions for individual or custom orders

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions
• Ability to recognize sewing and construction defects
• Strong attention to detail
• Ability to maintain consistent production and quality
• Ability to work with different fabrics, styles and garment components
• Ability to work independently and as part of a production team
• Willingness to learn new operations and sewing techniquis

Physical requirements:

• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods while performing sewing operations
• Ability to use hands and fingers repetitively
• Ability to coordinate hand, eye, and foot movements while operating sewing equipment
• Ability to visually inspect seams and garment components for defects
• Ability to repeatedly handle fabric, garment panels, and completed garments
• Ability to lift and move garment bundles or materials within company‑established limits
• Ability to perform repetitive movements associated with sewing operations

Why this is a great opportunity:

• Group medical including vision
• Dental
• Life insurance
• 10 Holidays
• 2 week summer vacation shutdown
• 1 week Christmas vacation shutdown
• Pension
• Incentives
• $500 sign‑on bonus

Interested candidates should apply online or in‑person at our Freeman Street location.