Textile winding, twisting, and drawing out machine setters, operators, and tenders set up and run the equipment that processes fibers into yarn and thread. The work is hands-on, in demand, and you can start without a four-year degree. Here is what the work involves, what it takes, and how to get in.
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You set up, operate, and maintain machines that wind, twist, and draw out textile fibers. Your day involves getting information about production specs, handling and moving materials, inspecting equipment for problems, and communicating with supervisors and coworkers about output and quality. You monitor machine performance, identify defects in the product, and estimate measurements to keep production on track. You keep detailed records and follow safety protocols to protect yourself and others on the production floor.
Core work activities
Career video courtesy of CareerOneStop.
Textile Winding, Twisting, and Drawing Out Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders earn a median of $38,670 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 9 percent from 2024 to 2034, though there are still about 2,500 openings a year from turnover.
Top skills
Knowledge areas
You typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and some on-the-job training. Many employers hire people with no prior experience and teach you how to operate their specific machines. Training usually takes a few weeks to a few months, depending on machine complexity. You will learn production processes, mechanical basics, and safety procedures. Some employers offer formal apprenticeships or paid training programs. Starting as a tender and moving up to operator or setter is a common path in textile manufacturing.
Most people enter this field through direct hire and on-the-job training. If you are deciding between different entry routes or want to map out your first steps in textile manufacturing, Pathly can map the textile winding, twisting, and drawing out machine setter, operator, and tender path that fits you and work through it with your counselor to find the path that fits your situation.
You are hands-on and practical. You like working with machines and materials, solving real problems, and seeing concrete results from your effort.
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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).