Embroidery Machine Operator

Shift: 6:00 AM – 2:30 PM

Purpose and Scope of Position

This position operates and maintains a multi-head embroidery machine to produce high-quality embroidered designs on promotional products according to work order specifications. The Embroidery Machine Operator is responsible for setup, running production, basic troubleshooting, and quality inspection of finished embroidered goods. This role requires enough digitizing knowledge to recognize stitch-out problems and communicate specific, actionable feedback to the Art team - candidates with hands-on digitizing experience are strongly preferred. This position works closely with the Production Manager to meet daily output and quality targets.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up and operate a six-head embroidery machine, including hooping/framing product, loading designs, and threading machine per work order instructions.
• Select and change thread colors, bobbins, and needles as required by each job.
• Monitor machine during production runs to identify and correct thread breaks, tension issues, misalignment, or other stitching defects.
• Perform basic troubleshooting and minor maintenance on the embroidery machine (needle changes, tension adjustments, cleaning) to minimize downtime.
• Inspect finished embroidered products for quality, consistency, and adherence to customer specifications before moving product to the next stage.
• Follow work order instructions accurately, including design placement, stitch count, and color sequencing.
• Track production quantities and communicate output, downtime, or quality concerns to the Production Manager.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area, including proper handling and storage of thread, backing, and supplies.
• Practice all safety precautions while operating equipment and handling materials.
• Communicate clearly with the Art department on digitizing adjustments needed for proper stitch-out (e.g., density, underlay, pull compensation, placement) based on how designs run on the machine.
• Assist with loading/unloading product and moving completed work between departments as needed.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Required: Prior hands-on experience operating a commercial embroidery machine (multi-head experience preferred).
• Required: Working knowledge of embroidery digitizing concepts (e.g., stitch types, density, underlay, pull compensation, push/pull distortion) sufficient to identify stitch-out issues and communicate specific, actionable change requests to the Art/digitizing team.
• Strongly preferred: Hands-on digitizing experience (e.g., Wilcom, Tajima DG, Hatch, or similar software).
• Mechanical aptitude and comfort with hands-on equipment troubleshooting.
• Strong attention to detail and quality-focused mindset.
• Ability to read and follow written work order instructions.
• Basic math skills for measuring, counting, and tracking production.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and perform repetitive tasks.
• Reliable, punctual, and able to work collaboratively in a team production environment.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, bend, and reach for extended periods during a shift.
• Ability to lift up to 25-40 lbs occasionally (product bins, thread cones, supplies).
• Manual dexterity for threading, hooping, and fine adjustments.
  

Snugzusa LLC is an equal opportunity employer and is a supporter of diversity and inclusion. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.