What are the responsibilities and job description for the 2nd Shift Flat-Bed Knitting Machine Operator position at Found Surface?
2nd Shift Flat-Bed Knitting Machine Operator| 4 Day Workweek
Company: Found Surface
Location: Cleveland, Ohio
Shift: Full Time 2nd Shift / Overnight (5pm-3am)
Hours: Monday - Thursday
Start Date: July 1, 2026
Reports to: Production Manager
About Found Surface
Found Surface is a vertically integrated knitwear manufacturer in Cleveland, Ohio, producing
high-quality knit garments on flat-bed knitting machines. We program, knit, sew, and finish under one
roof. We're a hands-on, growing operation looking for a dependable, self-directed operator to run our
overnight production.
Position Overview
We are seeking a reliable flatbed knitting machine operator to run 2nd shift production independently.
This role begins with a 2-4 month training period on 1st shift, working directly alongside our
Production Manager, after which the operator will transition to running overnight production. The
successful candidate will be responsible for executing the daily knit production plan, maintaining machine performance, finishing knit garments, and preparing them for handoff to the sewing department each morning. This is a position of significant responsibility. We are looking for someone who takes accountability and pride in their work, and who is eager to develop strong technical skills.
Key Responsibilities:
Production & Output
- Run scheduled knit production independently during 2nd shift
- Meet daily, weekly, and monthly production quotas
- Operate multiple Stoll flatbed machines simultaneously
- Log daily output and yarn usage accurately
- Prepare knit pieces for morning handoff to the sewing department
Quality Control & Finishing
- QC knit panels and garments as they come off the machines
- Remove waste yarn from knit pieces
- Weave in loose ends on seamless garments
- Flag and document recurring defects or quality issues for the Production Manager
Machine Operation & Maintenance
- Prepare machines for production runs
- Address basic machine errors and troubleshoot common issues
- Perform daily cleaning of all machines
- Carry out deep cleaning on a specified schedule
- Escalate complex technical issues to the Production Manager
Communication & Reporting
- Report directly to the Production Manager
- Leave clear shift notes documenting output, issues, and machine status
- Follow production instructions accurately
Preferred Qualifications
No prior knitting machine experience is required. We provide full hands-on training. The following are a plus but not necessary to apply:
- A degree in textiles, knitwear, or a related field with relevant hands-on production experience
- Experience operating Stoll flatbed knitting machines
- Experience operating Shima Seiki flatbed knitting machines (with willingness to cross-train on Stoll)
- Strong working knowledge of knitwear construction and stitch types
- Solid troubleshooting skills and understanding of flatbed machine maintenance
Skills & Attributes
- Detail-oriented with a strong focus on quality and efficiency
- Self-directed and accountable
- Eager to learn and mechanically inclined
- Comfortable working independently overnight
- Strong communication skills
- Flexibility to work overtime when production demands require it
- Reliable, punctual, and proactive about raising issues early
Schedule
First 2-4 months: 1st shift training alongside the Production Manager
Following training: 2nd shift / overnight, independent production
If you're reliable, mechanically inclined, and eager to learn a skilled trade, we encourage you to
apply, even without direct knitting experience.