A skilled industrial sewing machinist plays an important role in Britain’s garment and textile industries. Proficient operatives are valued for their expertise in adapting to the specific machine and material for the job in hand
Individuals are expected to have a background with machines such as bar tackers, hemmers, overlockers, buttonholers or computerised ones that work straight from digital patterns. Successful candidates will need a good eye for detail and the ability to attach garment and textile sections, feed machines, set the device for particular job runs and perform basic maintenance.
No formal school qualifications are needed to secure a post as a sewing machinist, but candidates need good basic sewing skills and vision. Many companies nowadays ask prospective employees to do a practical test. Applicants with a certificate such as an ABC Fashion and Textiles Level 3 may be given preference.
There are temporary and permanent positions in this field in all corners of the UK. Some roles are paid hourly, with starting rates of £7.00, while others offer annual salaries starting from around £14,000 a year outside of London and going up to £17,000 in Greater London.