Apparel Worker Responsibilities

With the growing trends in fashion and entry of various technological advancements, the apparel industries have grown tremendously. However, as compared to the earlier times, apparel worker responsibilities which were limited to designing, sewing, pattern making, etc., need be carried out with the help of automated machines. This is because it has reduced the cost of labor and time without compromising on the quality of the products that are being mass produced.

Key Responsibilities of an Apparel Worker

There are several tasks included in creating a clothing that is done by an apparel worker. They are involved in designing, marking, spreading, cutting, sewing, pressing, tailoring, etc. These are then displayed at various clothing stores and made available to the customers. They ensure that the delivered product has the highest level of quality. The work depends on the kind of department that is allocated to the apparel worker. Here is a general outline of the key responsibilities that need to be handled by them:

The first important step is to create a design for the clothing to be produced and convert it into a specific pattern, so that it can be produced on a larger scale
A master pattern is formed by cutting it appropriately according to the quantity that needs to be produced. While doing this, the texture of fabric and other things are taken into account, so as to minimize the wastage of material by marking it appropriately
The original pattern is then laid out along the length of the fabric to translate the drawings into a clothing of high quality. Today, with the advent and aid of computers, this work is carried out speedily and effectively
The material is then cut by using various cutting tools. Utmost care and precaution is taken during this process, so that there is minimum loss and wastage of material
The material is then sent for sewing process, which is usually handled by garment and non-garment operators of the sewing machines. Some delicate work may be done with the help of the hands. Before the finished product is ready, they ensure that it is free of basting, loose threads, etc., which may hamper the look the garment. If any repair is required, it is sent back to be mended again. It is then once again properly inspected and tested for its quality and graded
The finished product is finally pressed to make it wrinkle free by using special pressing machines and sent to the stores for display and sale

In addition to these responsibilities, they need to manage, control, and keep a track record of apparel inventory. They also take into consideration the needs of the customer regarding its quality, color, design, etc., and make recommendations to modify the designs accordingly.

Essential Skills

Due to technical advancement and automated systems, apparel workers need to have exposure to the basics of computers, electronics, etc. They should have excellent manual dexterity with good hand and eye coordination, which are considered to be essential skills. Moreover, they should have a thorough understanding of different kinds of fabrics. The work is quite demanding physically, as they need to do monotonous work for long hours while sitting or may need to be on their feet while operating the machines. They need to be comfortable to work in a team and should possess good interpersonal communication skills.

Educational Requirements

The educational requirements vary depending on the needs of the employer. In general, a high school diploma, secondary, or post secondary vocational training is generally preferred. While some may hire experienced candidates, others may offer on the job training.

Work Hours

Most of the apparel workers work for five days a week with work hours lasting for about thirty five to forty five hours per week.

Salary Details

The apparel workers earn in the range of $6 to $10 per hour depending on the type of work they are assigned.

Career Prospects

Due to technological developments, there is entry of computer aided machinery related to marking and grading, partially automated sewing, pressing machines, etc., which have reduced the number of jobs for the apparel workers. However, those with technical expertise and those who have experience in handling different kinds of relevant machinery have chances for advancement.

Thus, if you are aspiring to make a career in this industry, it is vital that you are well-acquainted with the apparel worker responsibilities, skills, and educational background required to make a mark in this field.