Textile Knitting and Weaving Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
Set up, operate, or tend machines that knit, loop, weave, or draw in textiles.
SOC: 51-6063.00
Common Job Titles
Knitter
Machine Operator
Tufting Operator
Weaver
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
Hands-onOperate knitting and weaving machines including circular, flat bed, jacquard, and rapier machines in textile production settings, following standard operating procedures.
Developing
KnowledgeIdentify machine malfunctions, fabric defects, and quality deviations through continuous monitoring of textile production processes.
Developing
Hands-onCalibrate tension meters, yarn feeders, and machine settings to achieve specified fabric weight and texture standards.
Developing
KnowledgeEvaluate textile product quality against production specifications using GSM cutters, measuring tools, and visual inspection techniques.
Developing
Hands-onHandle textile materials, spools, and fabric rolls during loading, threading, and unloading operations on production equipment.
Developing
KnowledgeApply production and processing knowledge of textile manufacturing methods when setting up machines for different fabric types and patterns.
Developing
Hands-onPerform routine maintenance tasks including lubrication, needle replacement, and component cleaning using hand tools and following equipment maintenance schedules.
Developing
KnowledgeInterpret production orders, work instructions, and machine control panel displays to adjust machine parameters and ensure accurate fabric output.
Developing
MindsetEngage with supervisors, maintenance technicians, and fellow operators to coordinate production workflows and communicate machine status updates.
Developing
KnowledgeDemonstrate troubleshooting procedures for common machine stoppages and yarn breaks to minimize downtime and maintain production efficiency.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Textile Knitting and Weaving Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
14,530
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $29,640. 25th percentile: U.S. $34,530. 50th percentile: U.S. $38,260. 75th percentile: U.S. $44,180. 90th percentile: U.S. $48,070. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$29,640
10% of workers earn the following or more
$48,070
Workers on average earn
$39,470
+ 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 Processing3.4/5
English Language3.2/5
Mechanical3.0/5
Public Safety and Security2.6/5
Education and Training2.6/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
