Experienced Industrial Sewing Machinist

Retractable Tarps is a well-established, family-owned Australian business based in Brendale, Queensland. We manufacture high-quality, custom-made tarp systems for the transport industry and pride ourselves on durable products, quality workmanship and reliable service.

Due to continued growth, we are seeking an experienced Industrial Sewing Machinist to join our full-time production team.

This is a hands-on production role suited to someone with strong industrial sewing experience who is confident working with large products, heavy-duty fabrics and industrial sewing equipment.

About the Role

You will manufacture custom tarp products from order sheets and patterns. The work involves straight-line sewing, joining large and shaped panels, reinforcing hems, cutting and marking materials, and working with heavy PVC and similar industrial fabrics.

This is a heavy industrial production role rather than a domestic sewing position. Applicants from upholstery, automotive trimming, marine, canvas, shade-sail and related industrial sewing backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

Previous tarp-manufacturing experience is not required, as product-specific training will be provided.

Key Responsibilities

Heavy industrial sewing of custom-made tarp products

Straight-line sewing of hems, including reinforced hems using seatbelt webbing

Sewing and joining heavy-duty PVC and industrial fabrics

Joining shaped panels to large rectangular tarp assemblies

Cutting patterns and marking materials from custom order sheets

Operating industrial walking-foot sewing machines

Operating HF welding equipment where required

Checking completed work for accuracy, strength and finish

Identifying and resolving sewing or assembly issues

Maintaining high standards of safety, quality and workmanship

Working cooperatively with the Sewing Department Supervisor and production team

Keeping the work area organised and assisting with general production requirements

Skills and Experience

Previous experience operating industrial sewing machines is essential

Strong straight-line sewing skills

Ability to read measurements, patterns and production instructions

Confidence handling large products and learning new production methods

Good attention to detail and pride in workmanship

Reliable, punctual and able to work with minimal supervision

Good communication and teamwork skills

A practical approach to problem-solving

Experience with heavy-duty fabrics or industrial materials is highly regarded

Experience with PVC fabrics, tarps, canvas, shade sails, truck curtains, marine products, upholstery or automotive trimming will be highly regarded

Applicants must have genuine industrial sewing machine experience, but previous experience manufacturing tarps is not required.

Employment Details

Full-time position

Monday to Friday

Based at our Brendale manufacturing facility

$33–$38 per hour, depending on skills and experience

Overtime may be available or required during busy production periods

Stable, long-term employment with an established Australian manufacturer

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to attend an interview and may be asked to complete a practical sewing machine assessment.

How to Apply

Please email your resume, along with a brief summary of your industrial sewing experience, to ••••@retractabletarps.com.au.