Textile Cutting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
Set up, operate, or tend machines that cut textiles.
SOC: 51-6062.00
Common Job Titles
Cutter
Cutter Operator
Fabric Cutter
Spreader
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
Hands-onOperate textile cutting machines including straight knife, round knife, band knife, and die cutting equipment in production environments, following established cutting specifications and safety protocols.
Proficient
Hands-onCalibrate cutting machine settings and blade alignments to achieve precise cuts based on pattern requirements and material characteristics.
Proficient
Hands-onCoordinate material handling procedures for loading, positioning, and spreading textiles using cloth spreading machines and manual techniques.
Proficient
KnowledgeApply production and processing knowledge to machine operation decisions considering textile characteristics, machine capabilities, and efficiency requirements.
Proficient
KnowledgeEvaluate textile cutting quality and compliance with production standards by inspecting cut materials and comparing against specifications.
Developing
KnowledgeDiagnose machine malfunctions and operational issues using troubleshooting procedures to minimize production downtime.
Developing
Hands-onPerform preventive maintenance and repair tasks on cutting equipment including blade sharpening, lubrication, and component replacement.
Developing
KnowledgeApply mathematical calculations for fabric measurements and cutting layouts to optimize material usage and reduce waste in production runs.
Developing
KnowledgeInterpret cutting patterns, technical drawings, and production specifications using AutoCAD files and written documentation to set up machines accurately.
Developing
MindsetEngage with supervisors and production team members to communicate machine status, quality issues, and production progress.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Textile Cutting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
8,960
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $27,230. 25th percentile: U.S. $32,380. 50th percentile: U.S. $37,940. 75th percentile: U.S. $43,710. 90th percentile: U.S. $49,080. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$27,230
10% of workers earn the following or more
$49,080
Workers on average earn
$38,500
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Production and Processing3.3/5
Mathematics2.9/5
Mechanical2.8/5
English Language2.6/5
Design2.5/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
