Job Description

Job Summary: We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented freelance contractor Sample Maker to join our fashion apparel team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for cutting and constructing high-quality prototype garments based on design specifications, technical packs, and patterns. This role is critical in translating design concepts into physical samples that represent the creative vision, fit standards, and quality expectations of the brand.

Key Responsibilities: Construct first samples, prototypes, and fit samples for women's, men's, or children's apparel (depending on brand focus). Interpret and follow tech packs, patterns, and designer notes with accuracy. Collaborate closely with designers, patternmakers, and technical developers to ensure sample accuracy. Cut garments using scissors or electric rotary cutter. Sew garments using industrial sewing machines (e.g., single needle, overlock, coverstitch, etc.). Identify construction issues or pattern problems and provide feedback to the team. Understand fabric grain lines, print direction, fabric stretch. Ensure all samples are finished to a high standard, reflecting production-level quality. Maintain an organized workspace and ensure all equipment is properly maintained. Assist in alterations and modifications based on fit session feedback.

Requirements: 3+ years of experience as a sample maker or garment technician in the fashion industry. Advanced sewing skills and proficiency with a variety of industrial sewing machines. Strong understanding of garment construction, fabric behavior, and apparel manufacturing. Ability to read and interpret patterns, spec sheets, and technical design packs. Exceptional attention to detail and commitment to quality. Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and meet tight deadlines. Strong communication and teamwork skills. [Optional: Experience with specific categories such as denim, knitwear, outerwear, etc.]

Preferred Qualifications: Bilingual (especially English/Spanish) is a plus for diverse team collaboration.

How this job compares in Culver City, CA

Pay in context

This employer didn't publish a rate. For reference, welding jobs across California currently run a median of $33/hr in our index, with the middle half of them falling between $27–$40/hr across 379 postings with published pay. That median is a reasonable floor to anchor on when a recruiter asks what you're looking for.

The local market in Culver City, CA

Culver City, CA is a small market in our index: 1 other active welding opening alongside this one, from 1 employer. Across California as a whole we're tracking 596 other active welding openings from 293 employers. With this few local postings, most welders here end up either commuting or looking at travel work. Browse welding jobs across California.

The most active employers in California at the moment, by number of open welding reqs, are SpaceX (34), Aerotek (16), and Volt (16). Volume like that usually means either a genuine expansion or a staffing agency working several client sites — worth knowing which before you apply.

Within California, the best-paying metros we track by median hourly rate are Santa Ana at $48/hr, Los Angeles at $45/hr, and El Segundo at $38/hr. If you can relocate or commute, that spread is worth factoring in.

Similar openings near Culver City, CA

Pay figures are medians computed from live postings in the Welding Pros index, not from survey data, and they move as employers post. Sewer Sample Maker (Contractor) figures were last recalculated when this page was built.