Sewing Machine Operator I - AbilityOne (1330)

Summary: 

The entry-level Apparel Sewing Machine Operator I position is responsible for accurately aligning fabric, garments, and materials under needles using marks on machines, clamps, templates, cloth, and notches as guides. This position guides garments or garment parts under machine needles and presser foot pedals to sew parts together.

This position is part of the AbilityOne Program, which provides employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. All applicants must meet the eligibility criteria for the AbilityOne Program. AbilityOne is one of the largest sources of employment for people who are blind or have significant disabilities. Through nonprofit agencies (like ours), the program provides products and services, including janitorial and manufacturing services. The program also requires that 75% of the services provided be completed by individuals who meet the AbilityOne requirements (blind or have significant disabilities).

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

• Operate single needle, basic automated, and/or bar tacking machines to perform basic sewing steps that automatically join, reinforce, or decorate material or articles - such as bar tacks, Velcro, and webbing.
• Performs at 90% productivity and First Time Quality (FTQ). Maintains 95% or better attendance.
• Align fabric, garments, and materials under needles using marks on machines, clamps, templates, cloth, and notches as guides.
• Guide garments or garment parts under machine needles and presser foot pedals to sew parts together.
• Inspect garments and markings to identify defects or damage. Mark mistakes and trim threads as necessary.
• Work with the supervisor to meet performance standards.
• Maintains a safe and clean work environment.
• Practice Continuous Improvement principles and 5S concepts
• Supports vision, values, culture, and commitment to excellent customer service to all customers and stakeholders.

Education and/or Experience:

• Minimum of six (6) months of related experience or training.
• Knowledge of threading, changing needles, and operating machines.
• Minimum of six (6) months of experience using an industrial sewing machine such as Juki DDl 5550-05 or 06, Reece 101, or Singer 281.
• Knowledge of back-tack, machine clip (with pedal), needle down (to turn the corner), threading, and putting in bobbins.

Competencies: To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:

• Technical Skills: Strives to continuously build knowledge and skills; Shares expertise with others.
• Teamwork: Gives and welcomes feedback; Supports everyone's efforts to succeed.
• Diversity: Shows respect and sensitivity for cultural differences.
• Ethics: Treats people with respect; Works with integrity and ethically; upholds organizational values.
• Quality: Demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness; Looks for ways to improve and promote quality; Applies feedback to improve performance; Monitors own work to ensure quality.
• Personality: Dependable and can take pride in work.
• Quantity: Meets productivity standards; Completes work promptly; Strives to increase productivity; Works quickly.
• Safety: Obser