Ripper

POSITION DESCRIPTION

This position is located on-site at Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris, Island, SC. The Ripper plays an essential role in the garment alteration process by carefully removing stitches and preparing military uniforms and apparel for precise tailoring. This position supports the uniform readiness and professional appearance of U.S. Marine Corps personnel by ensuring that garments are properly prepared for alterations without damaging fabric or structural integrity. The Ripper must exhibit exceptional attention to detail, manual dexterity, and the ability to work efficiently with various fabric types and stitch styles. Adherence to USMC standards and confidentiality in handling personal military garments is required.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Carefully remove seams, stitches, zippers, insignias, patches, and other components from Marine Corps uniforms and garments in preparation for alterations or repairs.
• Inspect each item before and after ripping to assess for damage, wear, or specific alteration requirements.
• Follow precise instructions for disassembly to ensure garments are altered or reassembled according to USMC uniform regulations.
• Use seam rippers, scissors, and other tools safely and effectively to protect garment integrity.
• Organize and label garments and components for easy handoff to tailors or seamstresses.
• Maintain cleanliness and order in the ripping and prep area to ensure efficiency and prevent garment loss or mix-ups.
• Communicate clearly with tailors, supervisors, and customer service staff to clarify job orders or special requests.
• Assist with minor garment preparation tasks such as trimming threads, pressing seams, or re-tagging items.
• Track completed and in-progress tasks to support workflow and timely delivery of uniforms.
• Ensure all garments are handled respectfully and securely, maintaining confidentiality and accountability.
• Comply with all safety, security, and base access regulations while operating in a U.S. military environment.
• Report equipment issues, operational delays, or material shortages to supervisory staff in a timely manner.
• Uphold strict confidentiality and handling procedures for personal items and military property.
• Provide professional, courteous, and timely customer service to U.S. Marine Corps personnel, ensuring all inquiries, concerns, and special garment requests are handled with accuracy, discretion, and a commitment to excellence.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Previous experience in garment alteration, sewing, or textile work preferred.
• Proficient in the use of seam rippers, small scissors, and garment prep tools.
• Knowledge of military uniform construction is a plus.
• Strong work ethic, reliability, and attention to detail.
• Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced, high-standards environment.
• Familiarity with handling military uniforms or specialized garments is highly desirable.
• Must be able to stand for extended periods and perform repetitive ripper motions.
• Must be eligible to work on a military installation and pass applicable background checks or security clearance requirements.
• Willingness to learn, cross-train and become knowledgeable in other functional areas.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT

• Indoor facility with exposure to high heat, steam, and industrial laundry chemicals.
• Indoor workshop environment with sewing equipment and sharp tools.
• Requires prolonged sitting or standing, hand dexterity, and handling of textiles.
• Fast-paced setting with strict quality and delivery standards.
• Structured and regulated setting in support of U.S. Marine Corps operational needs.