Sewing machine operators
Sewing machine operators is an occupation catalogued under SOC 51-6031. The role reports a median annual salary of $36,000 in the US and is projected to decline by 11% over the next decade. Entry typically requires a No formal educational credential, and shows moderate AI exposure (0.54 on a 0-1 scale) — some tasks are being automated but the role adapts. The most in-demand skills for the role include buttonholing, manufacturing of wearing apparel, properties of textile materials, manufacturing of made-up textile articles, apparel manufacturing technology.
Top skills
Frequently asked questions
How much does Sewing machine operators earn?
The median annual salary for Sewing machine operators in the US is $36,000.
What is the job outlook for Sewing machine operators?
The role is projected to decline by 11% over the next decade. Current US employment is approximately 124,000 workers.
How do I become sewing machine operators?
The typical entry education is a No formal educational credential. Building a foundation in the top skills below will strengthen your application.
What skills does Sewing machine operators need?
The most in-demand skills for this role include buttonholing, manufacturing of wearing apparel, properties of textile materials, manufacturing of made-up textile articles, apparel manufacturing technology, manufacture wearing apparel products. These are the skills O*NET identifies as most important for competent performance.
Will AI replace Sewing machine operators?
Our AI-durability model gives Sewing machine operators a score of 0.54 on a 0-1 scale (higher = more exposure). That places it at moderate AI exposure — some tasks are being automated but the role adapts. Learning to work with AI tools rather than against them is the path forward.
How hard is it to enter this field?
Sewing machine operators has low barrier to entry — generally accessible — you can enter with basic credentials and on-the-job learning.
Is Sewing machine operators right for you?
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