Machine Operator

Stanfield’s Ltd. – Sock Manufacturing Operations
Location:
Stanfield’s Ltd.
1 Logan Street, Truro, Nova Scotia

• Day Shift: 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m., Monday to Thursday, Night Shifts also available

Stanfield’s Ltd. is currently hiring for multiple full-time contract manufacturing positions within our Sock Department. We are seeking motivated, detail-oriented individuals to join our production team in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Available Opportunities

• Toe Closure Operator / Turner – Sock Department
• Knitting Machine Operator
• Washing & Boarding Operator – Sock Department

Applicants may be considered for one or more roles based on skills, experience, and operational requirements.
Key Responsibilities
Toe Closure Operations

• Receive knit sock batches from Knitting Operations and place bundles in designated bins.
• Perform toe closure using manual or automatic sewing machines.
• Properly load socks into automatic toe-closing machines to prevent jams or damage.
• Inspect at least one sock per bundle for seam quality and defects (e.g., skipped stitches, holes).
• Use specified thread colours and change thread as required.
• Ensure thread paths and eyelets are correctly set.
• Clean toe-closing machines as required to ensure safe operation and consistent quality.

Turning Operations

• Receive completed sock batches from the Sewing Supervisor.
• Load sock bundles into turning machine bins.
• Cut ties and load socks onto turning machine tubes to turn socks right-side out.
• Monitor product condition and identify visible defects.
• Clean turning machines as required.

Knitting Machine Operation & Setup

• Operate assigned hosiery knitting machines in accordance with machine tags (QST 110).
• Verify machine tags for accuracy (machine number, yarn type, lot number, style, colour, and size).
• Ensure machines run automatically and drop finished socks into designated containers.
• Maintain yarn inventory using FIFO (First-In, First-Out) principles.

Machine Maintenance & Troubleshooting

• Perform preventative maintenance and routine cleaning, including blowing down machines at least three times per shift.
• Monitor machines for operational issues and report concerns promptly.
• Communicate equipment issues to mechanics or supervisors and ensure machines are not restarted until resolved.
• Maintain working knowledge of machine assembly, disassembly, and adjustment.

Washing & Drying Operations

• Receive work trucks of socks for washing.
• Load washing machines with correct sock quantities, water, steam, and chemicals.
• Follow posted wash formulas and monitor wash cycles.
• Inspect socks for colour bleeding, whiteness, and appearance.
• Transfer socks to extractors and dryers and operate equipment per specifications.
• Unload dryers and prepare socks for the next production stage.

Boarding Operations

• Set boarding machine speed, temperature, and size forms according to style requirements.
• Load socks properly onto boarding forms, ensuring alignment and flat lay.
• Monitor and adjust boarding processes to meet quality standards.
• Inspect boarding forms for damage or burrs.
• Load boarded socks into work trucks and segregate defective items.

Quality Control & Documentation

• Monitor quality throughout all stages of production.
• Identify and report nonconforming product to the Supervisor.
• Ensure only acceptable product advances to the next process.
• Complete piecework tickets and record clock numbers accurately.
• Assist with NCR tagging and nonconforming product procedures per QMS-08.

Safety, Compliance & Housekeeping

• Perform all duties safely and in compliance with company Health & Safety policies.
• Follow work instructions, procedures, and quality management requirements.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Communicate effectively with supervisors and team members.
• Perform other duties as assigned by Management.

Education & Experience

• High school or college diploma, or equivalent experience.
• Previous experience in a manufacturing or production environment preferred.
• Ability to work under time constraints with minimal supervision.

Skills & Competencies

• Proven mechanical aptitude.
• Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.
• Effective organizational, interpersonal, and time-management skills.
• Ability to multitask and work in a fast-paced environment.
• Basic English reading, oral, and written communication skills.

Working Conditions

• Travel: None
• Environment: 100% plant-based
• Physical Demands: Moderate to high intensity; walking, sitting, lifting up to 35 lbs regularly, visual accuracy, and sustained focus
• Mental Effort: Moderate, with occasional higher levels of concentration required