Textile Knitting and Weaving Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
Textile knitting and weaving machine setters, operators, and tenders set up and run machines that produce knitted or woven fabrics. They work in textile mills and manufacturing facilities, monitoring equipment, making adjustments, and ensuring quality output. The role combines machine operation with basic troubleshooting and maintenance tasks.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against textile knitting and weaving machine setters, operators, and tenders and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves starting machines according to specifications, monitoring fabric quality and machine performance, and making minor adjustments to tension, speed, or settings. Operators inspect output for defects, change materials or bobbins as needed, and record production data. They perform routine cleaning and maintenance, and report equipment problems to supervisors. Shifts may vary, including early morning, afternoon, or night work depending on facility schedules.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCI. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to prefer working with your hands and following clear procedures and standards. You're detail-oriented, reliable, and comfortable with repetitive tasks and machinery. You work well when expectations are concrete and processes are well-defined rather than ambiguous or constantly changing.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold a high school diploma.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York | $43,560 | $49,570 | $49,570 | 230 |
| New Hampshire | $41,530 | $48,440 | $53,160 | 70 |
| Maine | $45,400 | $48,350 | $48,860 | 160 |
| Washington | $48,220 | $48,220 | $48,220 | 110 |
| Minnesota | $38,410 | $46,430 | $53,530 | 50 |
| Wisconsin | $37,280 | $45,610 | $61,060 | 150 |
| Pennsylvania | $38,500 | $45,580 | $52,180 | 510 |
| Ohio | $38,290 | $45,040 | $60,510 | 60 |
| California | $37,950 | $44,530 | $45,720 | 590 |
| Massachusetts | $39,450 | $44,190 | $48,110 | 180 |
| Illinois | $36,150 | $42,950 | $47,710 | 70 |
| Georgia | $38,870 | $40,930 | $44,890 | 3,550 |
All 25 states
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against textile knitting and weaving machine setters, operators, and tenders and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 51-6063.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.