Textile knitting and weaving machine setters, operators, and tenders control the machinery that produces fabric. The work is hands-on, in demand, and you can start with a high school diploma. Here is what the job involves, what it takes to succeed, and how to get in.
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You operate and tend knitting and weaving machines that produce fabric and textiles. Your day involves controlling machines and processes, monitoring equipment and materials to catch problems early, and handling physical tasks on the production floor. You communicate regularly with supervisors and coworkers to stay coordinated, get information about production needs, and report on what you observe. You follow safety protocols and keep the machines running smoothly so production stays on schedule.
Core work activities
Career video courtesy of CareerOneStop.
Textile Knitting and Weaving Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders earn a median of $39,530 a year, based on 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and location.
The outlook is softer here. Employment is projected to fall 11 percent from 2024 to 2034, though there are still about 1,700 openings a year from turnover.
Top skills
Knowledge areas
Most positions require a high school diploma or equivalent. You will learn on the job, starting with training in how to operate and set up the specific machines your employer uses. The work draws on knowledge of production processes, mechanical systems, and computers and electronics, so a background in any of these areas helps. Some employers offer formal training programs. Focus on developing strong attention to detail, the ability to follow instructions, and comfort learning new equipment.
Most people enter this field through direct hire and on-the-job training. If you are exploring whether this path fits your timeline and goals, Pathly can map the textile knitting and weaving machine setter, operator, and tender path that fits you with your school counselor to map out the next steps.
You like working with your hands and solving practical problems. You are detail-oriented, reliable, and comfortable with machinery and technical systems.
Reading about a career is the easy part. Turning it into a plan is where most students get stuck. Pathly takes you from curious to a clear next step, and gives your counselor the insight to champion you along the way.
Start with a quick quiz and assessments that surface your personality, your EQ, and what really motivates you, so your next steps are built around who you actually are.
Your free AI guide weighs this career against your strengths and goals, and surfaces the colleges, trades, and scholarships that match, so you know if it truly fits before you commit.
Get a personalized, step-by-step plan to reach this career, with the training, coursework, and credentials tracked in one place. Link your school or IEC and your counselor in the loop.
Last updated July 1, 2026.
Data sources. Career details from the O*NET 30.3 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under CC BY 4.0. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Salary and outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025 wages; 2024–2034 projections), delivered via the CareerOneStop API. Certification, licensing, wage, and outlook data from CareerOneStop, sponsored by USDOL/ETA and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).