Explore jobs
Find specific jobs
Explore careers
Explore professions
Best companies
Explore companies
The differences between machine operators and sewing machine operators can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. Additionally, a machine operator has an average salary of $32,874, which is higher than the $31,312 average annual salary of a sewing machine operator.
The top three skills for a machine operator include basic math, CNC and math. The most important skills for a sewing machine operator are stitching, industrial sewing machines, and single needle.
| Machine Operator | Sewing Machine Operator | |
| Yearly salary | $32,874 | $31,312 |
| Hourly rate | $15.80 | $15.05 |
| Growth rate | -6% | - |
| Number of jobs | 96,834 | 63,884 |
| Job satisfaction | 5 | - |
| Most common degree | High School Diploma, 53% | High School Diploma, 49% |
| Average age | 44 | 50 |
| Years of experience | - | 6 |
Machine operators are responsible for managing the machines assigned to them. They set up, install, operate, maintain, troubleshoot, and ensure quality output. Machine operators must know the inner workings of the machine such that they can easily address any problems that may arise. They must ensure that all components of the machine are working well. They perform maintenance routine checks to ensure that the machine is working at the most efficient capacity, is well-stocked with needed materials, and producing the best output. Machine operators are also responsible for ensuring the cleanliness and sanitation of the machine.
A sewing machine operator works at manufacturing establishments where they are in charge of operating sewing machines to produce garment and non-garment products. Before sewing, they usually meet with clients or managers to discuss and learn project requirements, decide on sewing techniques, and identify other client preferences. Part of their job is to attach buttons and zippers, cut or piece together fabrics, perform alterations on existing garments, and adhere to guidelines and safety policies. There are also times when they must perform maintenance checks on machines and conduct minimal repairs, reporting to managers should there be any complicated issues.
Machine operators and sewing machine operators have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Machine Operator | Sewing Machine Operator | |
| Average salary | $32,874 | $31,312 |
| Salary range | Between $26,000 And $40,000 | Between $24,000 And $39,000 |
| Highest paying City | Minneapolis, MN | Minneapolis, MN |
| Highest paying state | Minnesota | Alaska |
| Best paying company | BD | Gasser Chair |
| Best paying industry | Automotive | Manufacturing |
There are a few differences between a machine operator and a sewing machine operator in terms of educational background:
| Machine Operator | Sewing Machine Operator | |
| Most common degree | High School Diploma, 53% | High School Diploma, 49% |
| Most common major | Business | Business |
| Most common college | - | - |
Here are the differences between machine operators' and sewing machine operators' demographics:
| Machine Operator | Sewing Machine Operator | |
| Average age | 44 | 50 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 72.3% Female, 27.7% | Male, 15.7% Female, 84.3% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 12.0% Unknown, 3.4% Hispanic or Latino, 16.0% Asian, 7.5% White, 60.0% American Indian and Alaska Native, 1.2% | Black or African American, 9.7% Unknown, 4.5% Hispanic or Latino, 9.5% Asian, 10.1% White, 65.3% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.8% |
| LGBT Percentage | 5% | 5% |