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AAI/Spalding - Sewing Machine Operator
Company : Fruit of the Loom
Location : Jefferson, IA, 50129
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 3 January 2026
Position Summary
American Athletic, Inc has an immediate opening for a Sewing Machine Operator at its Jefferson, Iowa facility.
This position performs sewing functions in the Fabric building to assist in the production of finished goods.
This is a full time, first shift position with excellent benefits and a pay range of $18.98 - 20.98/hour.
About AAI/Spalding
AAI/Spalding is a leading sports equipment manufacturer and part of Fruit of the Loom, an independent, wholly owned subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway Inc.
As the official supplier to USA Gymnastics, NCAA, YMCA National Gymnastics Championships, and a partner of the Federation Internationale De Gymnastique (FIG), AAI is committed to advancing the sport through grassroots initiatives and a legacy of quality, service, and innovation.
Spalding, the world’s largest basketball equipment supplier and official backstop supplier of the NCAA, brings its renowned excellence to volleyball with premium products designed for high school, collegiate, and professional athletes.
Our Jefferson, Iowa facility has been in operation and supporting our local community since 1954.
Specific Responsibilities
- Select appropriate materials according to prints; set up and operate sewing machine.
- Assist with moving large or heavy mats as needed.
- Assist with training new employees, perform yearly inventory and maintain a clean and safe workstation.
- Perform other duties as assigned by the supervisor
- Report problems with raw goods, finished goods or machine defects to Lead Person or Supervisor.
Minimum Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Must be capable of writing, recording, and understanding measurements
- Must be able to speak, read, and understand English fluently
- Ability to calculate figures and amounts such as proportions, percentages, area, circumference and volume
- Ability to apply understanding to carry out instructions finished in written, verbal or in diagram form
- Ability to read and follow engineering drawings
Minimum Job Experience Required
- One to three months related experience and/or training, or equivalent combination
- Prior sewing experience preferred, but not required
Company Information
We offer the following:
Competitive Pay
Medical, dental, vision, life & disability insurance
Vacation
Paid holidays
401(k)
Employee Assistance Program
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Frequently asked questions
Mastering fabric handling, accurate measurement reading, and understanding engineering diagrams greatly boost performance in this role. Familiarity with industrial sewing machines and the ability to troubleshoot minor defects enhance productivity for Aai/Spalding operators.
Operators typically experience a steady flow with peak periods aligned to production deadlines. Tasks range from material selection to machine operation and occasional heavy lifting, requiring adaptability to maintain output quality within scheduled shifts.
Entry-level operators often advance to lead operator or quality control roles. With experience, opportunities open in machine maintenance or training new hires, especially within Fruit of the Loom’s manufacturing facilities.
Fruit of the Loom supports on-the-job learning tailored to Aai/Spalding’s production standards. New hires receive hands-on training with emphasis on safety, machine setup, and quality control to align with the brand's legacy in sports equipment manufacturing.
At Fruit of the Loom, operators engage with specialized sports equipment fabrics and machines, focusing on precision for athletic gear. The company's link to major sports organizations adds unique quality expectations not always present in general apparel manufacturing.
Jefferson’s long-standing manufacturing presence attracts steady demand for operators but faces less competition than larger metro areas. This balance offers good job stability and accessible entry points for candidates with basic sewing experience.
Most employees benefit from relatively short commutes given Jefferson’s small-town layout. Public transport is limited, so personal vehicles are typically required. Proximity to the facility can reduce daily travel stress and improve work-life balance.
This pay range is competitive locally, reflecting both the skill level required and the cost of living in Jefferson. It stands above some entry-level manufacturing wages, recognizing the specialized nature of sewing machine operation in sports equipment production.
Fruit of the Loom prioritizes attention to detail, basic math proficiency, and effective communication skills. Operators must also demonstrate reliability and the ability to follow complex instructions, vital for maintaining product standards.
Yes, operators frequently coordinate with supervisors, quality control, and inventory teams to ensure seamless production flow. This collaboration supports timely problem resolution and upholds the high-quality expectations of Fruit of the Loom’s products.