There are no formal educational requirements to enter this field. Cross training is increasingly important to increase an operator's skills. This career is considered low paying. Many operators work on a per piece basis and earn at or near the minimum wage. Earnings depend on skill, speed and accuracy.
Wages vary significantly by industry and occupation.
Career Ladder Advancement is very limited. Some of the best operators may move up to higher paying jobs with quality garment manufacturers. A few may get line supervisory positions. The career outlook for this field is average. Employment of sewing machine operators is expected to decline significantly through the year 2005.