Embroidery Operator & Alteration Specialist

Gerry Davis Sports is seeking an experienced, dependable, and highly organized individual to handle embroidery production, heat transfers, apparel preparation, and related warehouse operations.

Both part-time and full-time candidates will be considered.

Previous experience operating commercial embroidery machines is required. This is not an entry-level or training position.

This position involves more than operating embroidery machines. The right candidate will be comfortable handling a variety of tasks, from completing embroidery and heat transfer orders to steaming, cleaning, inspecting, and preparing returned merchandise for resale.

We experience significant seasonal increases in order volume, so the ability to stay organized, maintain quality, and work efficiently under pressure is essential.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain commercial embroidery machines to complete customer orders accurately and on time.
• Properly position and align apparel, hats, and other items for embroidery.
• Change threads, bobbins, and needles, troubleshoot equipment issues, and maintain machines.
• Inspect completed embroidery work for quality and accuracy.
• Prepare, position, and apply heat transfers to apparel using commercial heat press equipment.
• Ensure proper temperature, pressure, and application times for different heat transfer materials and garments.
• Inspect completed heat transfers for proper placement, adhesion, and overall quality.
• Steam, clean, fold, package, and prepare apparel for sale or shipment.
• Inspect and process returned merchandise, ensuring items meet our standards before being returned to inventory.
• Maintain an organized workspace, including embroidery supplies, heat transfer materials, equipment, and merchandise.
• Track production supplies and identify materials that need to be replenished.
• Assist with other apparel preparation and warehouse tasks as needed.
• Prioritize work and meet deadlines during our busiest seasons.

Qualifications

• Previous hands-on experience operating commercial embroidery machines is required.
• Ability to independently set up, operate, and troubleshoot commercial embroidery equipment.
• Experience operating Melco commercial embroidery machines is preferred.
• Experience operating Ricoma or other Chinese-manufactured commercial embroidery machines is a plus.
• Experience applying heat transfers using commercial heat press equipment is preferred.
• Experience hemming or altering apparel is highly valued and provides opportunities for additional compensation.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail are essential.
• Ability to work independently, solve problems, and make decisions with minimal supervision.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment with changing priorities and tight deadlines.
• Dependable, detail-oriented, and willing to assist with other tasks as needed.
• Ability to communicate effectively with coworkers.
• Willingness to work flexible hours during peak periods when necessary.

Compensation & Benefits

• $20-22 per hour, depending on experience.
• Minimum 15 days of paid time off annually for full-time employees, with additional PTO negotiable based on experience and qualifications.
• Performance-based bonus opportunities.
• Additional earning opportunities for hemming and alterations.

Position Details

• Location: Appleton, Wisconsin
• Job Type: Part-time or full-time
• Schedule: Primarily Monday–Friday, with hours negotiable based on availability and business needs. Additional hours may be available during peak seasons.
• Start Date: Immediate opening.

Applicants must have prior commercial embroidery machine operating experience and be capable of handling embroidery production with minimal supervision.

Pay: $20.00 - $22.00 per hour

Expected hours: 12.0 – 40.0 per week

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule
• Paid time off

Work Location: In person