Embroidery Machine Operator

Embroidery Production LeadQuince is hiring an Embroidery Production Lead to build and own our in-house embroidery program from the ground up at our Santa Fe Springs facility. This is a true zero-to-one role — you will select the equipment, source the tooling, write the SOPs, and drive the operation to scale. Your goal is to launch the embroidery capability within 1 month and scale throughput to 8,000 units per day over the course of 6 months. You will report to the Operations Manager and partner closely with the Decoration Program Manager to ensure the program launches on time, to standard, and is built to grow.This is a full-time, fully on-site role based in Santa Fe Springs, CA.ResponsibilitiesPartner with Operations Manager to launch the end-to-end launch of the embroidery program — from blank floor space to production capability within 1 month.Responsible for managing performance and attendance of each associate on the decoration team to meet targets established by the Operations Manager.Participate in the evaluation and procurement of all equipment and tooling (multi-head machines, hoops, frames, backing, threads).Work with the Operations Manager to develop SOPs, establish quality control checkpoints, defect rate benchmarks, and validate output targets.Own onboarding and training for a team of 15+ operators — bring them to production-ready performance fast. Partner with Operations Manager on the hiring process.Partner with Operations Manager to adjust labor, workflows, and priorities to meet SLAs and scale to 8,000 units per week within 6 months ensuring 99% on time delivery and quality acceptance.Lead daily standups and weekly Operations updates; track output, quality, and downtime and implement fixes.Own equipment uptime and consumables inventory (thread, backing, stabilizers) in coordination with procurement and warehouse.Work with the Decoration Program Manager to verify new products for feasibility, material compatibility, and logo placement.Partner with the Operations Manager on capacity planning, cost targets, and expansion roadmap.QualificationsRequired:3+ years of leadership within apparel production or similar environment.Proven track record building SOPs and training large production teams.Management experience overseeing a team of 20+ FTEs.Familiarity with production tracking tools, WMS, or ERP systems.Knowledge of safety protocols and manufacturing best practices.Preferred:Hands-on experience launching a program or facility from the ground up.Knowledge of commercial embroidery equipment (multi-head machines), digitizing, hooping, and backing selection.Physical RequirementsLifting up to 50 pounds.Standing and walking throughout the entirety of your shift.Ability to go up and down stairs, use of ladders throughout the day as needed.Bending, twisting, or kneeling may be required throughout the day for lifting or maneuvering objects.All posted ranges are reflective of base salary and may vary depending upon experience level and location. Bonus and equity may also be provided for eligible roles.Pay Range$73,000 - $80,000 USDWhy Quince?Joining Quince means being part of a mission-driven team reshaping retail. You will work alongside talented colleagues, tackle meaningful challenges, and contribute to building a more sustainable, accessible future for customers and partners alike.Equal Opportunity & Hiring IntegrityQuince provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applications for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran or military status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.Quince is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation to complete your application or to perform the essential functions of a role at Quince, please let us know by completing this accommodation form. We review all requests individually and will work with you to determine appropriate accommodations on a case-by-case basis.Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check. Quince will conduct background checks in compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.Security Advisory: Beware of FraudsAt Quince, we're dedicated to recruiting top talent who share our drive for innovation. To safeguard candidates, Quince emphasizes legitimate recruitment practices. Initial communication is primarily via official Quince email addresses and LinkedIn; beware of deviations. Personal data and sensitive information will not be solicited during the application phase. Interviews are conducted via phone, in person, or through the approved platforms Google Meets or Zoom—never via messaging apps or other calling services. Offers are merit-based, communicated verbally, and followed up in writing. If personal information is requested to initiate the hiring process, rest assured it will be through secure and protected means.