Textile Machine Operators

At a Glance

Duties vary by the product and the type of machinery
Have a low level of social interaction
Sometimes wear safety gear, such as protective glasses and ear plugs
May work night and weekend shifts
Receive training on the job

Career summary

Textile machine operators set up and operate machines that make products from fibers.

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There are several different types of textile machines:

Carding and combing machines clean and align natural fibers
Bleaching and dying machines bleach and dye fibers
Twisting machines wind or twist textiles
Extruding machines make fibers from synthetic materials
Knitting and weaving machines knit, loop, and weave textiles

No matter which type of machine they operate, textile machine operators share similar duties. Before starting a job, textile machine operators study guides, charts, or specification sheets. They set up machines by threading thread through needles, adding bleaching solutions or dye, or installing cutting tools.

Operators adjust the controls for tension, speed, and heat. For electronic equipment, they program controls or key in instructions. Sometimes, setters and set-up operators perform most of these set-up tasks.

Operators perform test runs to verify that the adjustments are correct. They inspect the product to be sure it meets requirements. During operation, operators watch gauges and control panels to make sure everything is operating correctly. Operators record data about work completed and machine settings used.

Operators do regular maintenance on their machines. They inspect machines to see if they need repairs or adjustments. They clean and oil their machines, and repair or replace worn parts. They also install, level, and align components such as:

Gears
Chains
Dies
Cutters
Needles

Related careers

This career is part of the Manufacturing cluster of careers.

Related careers include:

Job duties

Task list

The following list of tasks is specific to textile machine operators.

Inspect machinery to determine needed adjustments and repairs.
Clean and oil machines. Repair or replace worn or defective parts.
Install, level, and align components such as gears, chains, dies, cutters, and needles.
Study guides, charts, and specification sheets to determine set up of machines. May get same information by conferring with supervisors.
Thread yarn or fabric through guides, needles, and rollers. May load chemical compounds.
Adjust controls for heat, tension, and speed. May program electronic equipment.
Test solutions. Mix or add dyes, water, detergents, or chemicals to dilute or strengthen them.
Operate machines for test run to verify adjustments.
Inspect product to be sure it meets specifications.
Start machines and monitor operation. Observe control panels and gauges to detect problems.
Notify supervisor of problems with machines.
Confer with coworkers for information about orders, processes, or problems.
Record information about work completed and machine settings.

Common work activities

Textile machine operators perform the following tasks. These tasks are common to many careers.

Get information needed to do the job
Control machines and processes
Inspect equipment, structures, or materials
Handle and move objects
Monitor events, materials, and surroundings
Communicate with supervisors, peers, or subordinates
Identify objects, actions, and events
Perform activities that use the whole body
Make decisions and solve problems
Judge the value of objects, services, or people
Process information
Evaluate information against standards
Estimate sizes, quantities, time, cost, or materials needed
Teach others
Repair and maintain mechanical equipment
Document and record information

Work requirements

Working conditions

In a typical work setting, textile machine operators:

Interpersonal relationships

Have a low level of social contact. They talk to supervisors in person to get information, but work mainly with machines.
Are responsible for the health and safety of those working near them.
Are somewhat responsible for the work done by other operators.
May work as part of a team.

Physical work conditions

Always work indoors.
Are regularly exposed to sounds and noise levels that are distracting or uncomfortable.
Daily wear protective glasses or masks and ear plugs. Extruding machine operators may wear protective shoes and clothing when working with certain chemicals.
Are often exposed to contaminants. This is more likely for bleaching and dyeing machine operators.
Are sometimes exposed to hazardous equipment.
Are sometimes exposed to hazardous situations that could produce cuts or minor burns.
Work physically near others.

Work performance

Must be sure that all details are done and their work is exact. Errors could cost the company money because of lost time and materials.
Must allow the work pace to be set by the speed of the machinery.
Repeat the same physical activities.
Sometimes can set their daily tasks and goals without seeking input from a supervisor first.

Hours/travel

May work night and weekend shifts. Many textile and fiber mills operate 24 hours a day.
Usually work 40 hours a week.

Physical demands

Textile machine operators frequently:

Use their hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools, or controls.
Stand for long periods of time.
Walk or run for long periods of time.
Repeat the same movements.
Bend or twist their body.

It is important for textile machine operators to be able to:

Hold the arm and hand in one position or hold the hand steady while moving the arm.
Make quick, precise adjustments to machine controls.
Use fingers to grasp, move, or assemble very small objects.
See details of objects that are less than a few feet away.
Use one or two hands to grasp, move, or assemble objects.
Move two or more limbs together (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while remaining in place.
React quickly using hands, fingers, or feet.
Use stomach and lower back muscles to support the body for long periods without getting tired.
Speak clearly so listeners can understand.

It is not as important, but still necessary, for textile machine operators to be able to:

Adjust body movements or equipment controls to keep pace with speed changes of moving objects.
Focus on one source of sound and ignore others.
Understand the speech of another person.
See differences between colors, shades, and brightness.
Use muscles to lift, push, pull, or carry heavy objects.
Bend, stretch, twist, or reach out.
See details of objects that are more than a few feet away.
Hear sounds and recognize the difference between them.
Choose quickly and correctly among various movements when responding to different signals.
Determine the distance between objects.
Be physically active for long periods without getting tired or out of breath.
Make fast, repeated movements of fingers, hands, and wrists.
Coordinate movement of several parts of the body, such as arms and legs, while the body is moving.
Use muscles for extended periods without getting tired.
Move arms and legs quickly.

Skills and abilities

Textile machine operators need to:

Communicate

Understand spoken information.
Speak clearly so listeners can understand.
Listen to others and ask questions.

Reason and problem solve

Notice when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong.
Follow guidelines to arrange objects or actions in a certain order.
Concentrate and not be distracted while performing a task.

Manage oneself, people, time, and things

Check how well one is learning or doing something.

Work with things

Watch gauges, dials, and output to make sure a machine is working properly.
Operate and control equipment.
Inspect and evaluate the quality of products.

Perceive and visualize

Quickly and accurately compare letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns.

Education and training

Educational programs

The programs of study listed below will help you prepare for the occupation or career cluster you are exploring.

Programs of study to consider

Training

To work as a textile machine operator, you typically need to:

have a high school diploma or equivalent; and
complete on-the-job training.

Education after high school

No formal education beyond high school is required for this occupation.

On-the-job training

Textile machine operators learn their skills on the job from an experienced worker. At first, you learn basic skills. As you become more experienced, you learn how to set up, operate, and maintain machines. The length of training varies by the type of machine you operate. Most operators receive up to one year of training.

Helpful high school courses

You should take a general high school curriculum that meets the state's graduation requirements. You will be required to take both math and science classes to graduate.

Helpful electives to take in high school that prepare you for this career include:

Clothing Design and Sewing
Physical Education
Safety and First Aid
Textiles

The courses listed above are meant to help you create your high school plan. If you have not already done so, talk to a school counselor or parent about the courses you are considering taking.

You should also check with a teacher or counselor to see if work-based learning opportunities are available in your school and community. These might include field trips, job shadowing, internships, and actual work experience. The goal of these activities is to help you connect your school experiences with real-life work.

Join some groups, try some hobbies, or volunteer with an organization that interests you. By participating in activities you can have fun, make new friends, and learn about yourself. Maybe one of them will help direct you to a future career. Here are examples of activities and groups that may be available in your high school or community.

Things to know

Some employers prefer applicants who have formal technical training. Most employers require a high school diploma or equivalent. Knowledge of computers and electronics is also helpful.

A work history showing dependability and punctuality is the most important requirement for some employers.

Tips

Basic math, reading, and mechanical skills are helpful. The ability to perceive spatial differences and react quickly to changes in a machine's operation are important.

Costs to workers

Some workers may be required to join a union and pay an initiation fee and regular dues.

Job listings

Listed below are links to job categories from the National Labor Exchange that relate to this career. Once you get a list of jobs, you can view information about individual jobs and find out how to apply. If your job search finds too many openings, or if you wish to search for jobs outside of Washington, you will need to refine your search.

To get a listing of current jobs from the WorkSource system, go to the WorkSource website (external link) .

Wages

The minimum wage for Washington State as of January 1, 2020 is $13.50 per hour. Some areas of the state may have a higher minimum wage.

Extruding and forming machine setters, operators, and tenders, synthetic and glass fibers (SOC 51-6091)

Location	Pay Period
Location	Pay Period	10%	25%	Median	75%	90%
Washington	Hourly	$12.66	$13.85	$16.13	$18.94	$22.15
	Monthly	$2,194	$2,400	$2,795	$3,282	$3,839
	Yearly	$26,320	$28,810	$33,550	$39,400	$46,070
United States	Hourly	$11.65	$13.47	$16.44	$20.06	$24.09
	Monthly	$2,019	$2,334	$2,849	$3,476	$4,175
	Yearly	$24,240	$28,010	$34,200	$41,730	$50,100

Textile bleaching and dyeing machine operators and tenders (SOC 51-6061)

Location	Pay Period
Location	Pay Period	10%	25%	Median	75%	90%
Washington	Wages for this occupation are not available.
United States	Hourly	$10.42	$11.60	$13.84	$16.81	$19.23
	Monthly	$1,806	$2,010	$2,398	$2,913	$3,333
	Yearly	$21,670	$24,140	$28,780	$34,960	$39,990

Textile cutting machine setters, operators, and tenders (SOC 51-6062)

Location	Pay Period
Location	Pay Period	10%	25%	Median	75%	90%
Washington	Hourly	$11.89	$12.66	$16.72	$19.25	$23.92
	Monthly	$2,061	$2,194	$2,898	$3,336	$4,145
	Yearly	$24,730	$26,330	$34,780	$40,050	$49,760
Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue	Hourly	$12.14	$12.74	$17.06	$19.75	$24.63
	Monthly	$2,104	$2,208	$2,956	$3,423	$4,268
	Yearly	$25,262	$26,509	$35,497	$41,072	$51,227
Vancouver	Hourly	$11.00	$12.19	$13.36	$14.57	$15.31
	Monthly	$1,906	$2,113	$2,315	$2,525	$2,653
	Yearly	$22,862	$25,350	$27,776	$30,288	$31,842
United States	Hourly	$9.65	$11.15	$13.57	$16.71	$19.41
	Monthly	$1,672	$1,932	$2,352	$2,896	$3,364
	Yearly	$20,070	$23,200	$28,220	$34,770	$40,370

Textile knitting and weaving machine setters, operators, and tenders (SOC 51-6063)

Location	Pay Period
Location	Pay Period	10%	25%	Median	75%	90%
Washington	Hourly	$12.73	$15.58	$18.09	$21.68	$23.86
	Monthly	$2,206	$2,700	$3,135	$3,757	$4,135
	Yearly	$26,480	$32,410	$37,630	$45,080	$49,620
Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue	Hourly	$20.79	$21.69	$23.19	$24.69	$25.58
	Monthly	$3,603	$3,759	$4,019	$4,279	$4,433
	Yearly	$43,250	$45,121	$48,240	$51,357	$53,201
United States	Hourly	$10.22	$11.62	$14.02	$17.21	$20.33
	Monthly	$1,771	$2,014	$2,430	$2,982	$3,523
	Yearly	$21,260	$24,170	$29,160	$35,810	$42,280

Textile winding, twisting, and drawing out machine setters, operators, and tenders (SOC 51-6064)

Location	Pay Period
Location	Pay Period	10%	25%	Median	75%	90%
Washington	Hourly	$11.72	$12.26	$15.69	$20.39	$23.53
	Monthly	$2,031	$2,125	$2,719	$3,534	$4,078
	Yearly	$24,390	$25,510	$32,630	$42,420	$48,940
Bellingham	Hourly	$11.97	$12.84	$16.88	$21.94	$24.38
	Monthly	$2,074	$2,225	$2,925	$3,802	$4,225
	Yearly	$24,893	$26,709	$35,106	$45,624	$50,714
Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue	Hourly	$14.09	$16.12	$17.97	$19.75	$29.81
	Monthly	$2,442	$2,794	$3,114	$3,423	$5,166
	Yearly	$29,308	$33,521	$37,371	$41,075	$62,000
United States	Hourly	$10.46	$12.27	$13.90	$15.82	$18.62
	Monthly	$1,813	$2,126	$2,409	$2,742	$3,227
	Yearly	$21,760	$25,530	$28,920	$32,900	$38,730

Wages vary widely based on the type of machine, mill, specialty, shift, and seniority. Wages also vary by area of the country.

Most full-time textile machine operators receive typical benefits. These include vacation, sick leave, and health insurance. In addition, some firms provide on-site day care and education benefits. Some provide employee discounts in company outlet stores.

Employment and outlook

Washington outlook

The table below provides information about the number of workers in this career in various regions. It also provides information about the expected growth rate and future job openings.

Extruding and Forming Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Synthetic and Glass Fibers (SOC 51-6091)

		This occupation	All occupations
Location	Current employment	Growth over 10 years		Annual openings
Washington	166	0.0%	16.1%	20
Clallam, Jefferson, and Kitsap Counties	23	0.0%	11.9%	3
Island, San Juan, Skagit, and Whatcom Counties	46	4.3%	14.6%	6
King County	39	-5.1%	19.6%	4
Pierce County	15	0.0%	15.2%	2
United States	18,800	-8.0%	5.2%	2,300

Textile Bleaching and Dyeing Machine Operators and Tenders (SOC 51-6061)

		This occupation	All occupations
Location	Current employment	Growth over 10 years		Annual openings
United States	9,700	-18.6%	5.2%	1,000

Textile Cutting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders (SOC 51-6062)

		This occupation	All occupations
Location	Current employment	Growth over 10 years		Annual openings
Washington	118	-1.7%	16.1%	16
King County	50	-8.0%	19.6%	5
Pierce County	35	-5.7%	15.2%	4
United States	13,900	-11.5%	5.2%	1,000

Textile Knitting and Weaving Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders (SOC 51-6063)

		This occupation	All occupations
Location	Current employment	Growth over 10 years		Annual openings
Washington	71	21.1%	16.1%	13
Island, San Juan, Skagit, and Whatcom Counties	12	16.7%	14.6%	2
United States	22,100	-19.0%	5.2%	1,800

Textile Winding, Twisting, and Drawing Out Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders (SOC 51-6064)

		This occupation	All occupations
Location	Current employment	Growth over 10 years		Annual openings
Washington	220	5.0%	16.1%	27
Clallam, Jefferson, and Kitsap Counties	10	0.0%	11.9%	1
Island, San Juan, Skagit, and Whatcom Counties	123	4.9%	14.6%	15
Kittitas, Klickitat, Skamania, and Yakima Counties	37	8.1%	13.8%	5
Pierce County	17	5.9%	15.2%	2
United States	32,100	-15.9%	5.2%	2,400

National employment

North Carolina, Georgia, and South Carolina are the leading states in jobs for textile workers. Most other textile workers are employed in southern states, California, and the Northeast.

Major employers:

Fabric mills
Fiber, yarn, and thread mills
Textile and fabric finishing mills
Textile furnishings mills
Apparel manufacturers

National outlook

The decline in jobs in this occupation is due to two major factors. One, workers are more productive because of automation. Therefore, fewer workers are needed. Two, more textile mills are moving to other countries because of trade agreements. This will reduce the demand for textile machine operators in the US.

Despite the decline in jobs, openings will occur each year as workers change jobs or leave the labor force.

Other resources

UNITE HERE
275 - 7th Avenue, 16th Floor
New York, NY 10001
212.265.7000

Washington Business Week
PO Box 1170
Renton, WA 98057
253.237.3545

References

Career cluster

Manufacturing

Career path

Realistic (Technical)

O*Net occupations

O*Net job zone

Job Zone 2 - Some preparation needed. Some previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience may be helpful in these occupations, but usually is not needed.