Demo

Sewing Machine Operator

Tom James Company
Lafayette, TN Full Time
POSTED ON 10/7/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 11/22/2026
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.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.

Salary.com Estimation for Sewing Machine Operator in Lafayette, TN
$60,228 to $74,995
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