Sewing Machine Mechanic

Sewing machine mechanics service, maintain and repair sewing machines in clothing factories. This role serves as a very important link in the production chain, as the factory cannot function at optimum production whilst a machine is out of order.

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Some of the tasks that the sewing machine mechanic has to perform include:

• adjusting machine parts
• regulating the length and stroke of the needle
• setting the timing
• dismantling machines and replacing worn or broken parts
• inspecting shafts and belts and repairing broken transmission belts and motors
• installing new specified parts on machines.

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Personal Requirements

• at least 17 years old
• technical and mechanical aptitude
• able to work efficiently with your hands
• responsible and able to make decisions
• able to work in a team, as well as independently

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How to Enter

Schooling & School Subjects

Grade 10 Certificate
some employers prefer higher qualifications

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What to Study

There are two courses sewing-machine mechanics can follow:

Two-year part-time course: offered 2 nights a week over a period of 2 years. The course provides complete technical training in the setting of machines, the installation of accessories to machines, fitting and turning, as well as three-phase and single-phase electric motors. The course is practically-orientated and there are usually 10 to 12 students per class. On successful completion of the course, the student receives a Diploma in Sewing-Machine Mechanics and Maintenance.

Ten-week part-time course: offered 2 nights a week over a period of 10 weeks. During this course, students learn how to maintain and operate one specific machine in a clothing factory. After successful completion of the practical exams, the student receives a certificate in Sewing-Machine Mechanics and Maintenance. The specific machine that they studied during the course is indicated on the certificate. Both the above-mentioned courses are offered by the Clothing Industry Training Board.

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Employment

• clothing factories
• machine manufacturers
• large boutiques
• self-employment, with enough experience can work on a contract basis

Employment prospects in this line of work are good. The clothing industry usually requires more qualified mechanics than are available.

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Further Information

Textile Federation
40 Seventh Avenue
Edenvale, 1609
Tel: (011) 454-2342
www.texfed.co.za

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Getting Started

• arrange to visit your nearest CITB regional office and speak to the principal of the training centre
• arrange to speak to sewing machine mechanics and watch them at work

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