What are the responsibilities and job description for the Knitting Technician position at Saint Croix Inc?
For over 60 years, Saint Croix Inc. has been a symbol of timeless elegance and unparalleled craftsmanship. Founded in the heart of Winona, MN, this distinguished company has remained at the forefront of the luxury sportswear industry, creating handcrafted sweaters, sports coats, shirts, outerwear, and accessories that are cherished around the world.
What began as a small, passionate operation has grown into a renowned name, respected for its commitment to excellence and quality. Each Saint Croix garment is carefully crafted, blending cutting-edge knitting technology with the expert touch of skilled artisans, ensuring that every piece is nothing short of perfection. From the first stitch to the final finishing, the dedication to craftsmanship is evident in every garment we produce.
Our legacy is built on a foundation of knowledge, integrity, and a relentless pursuit of the finest materials and craftsmanship. As we continue to grow and evolve, we are looking for individuals who share our passion for quality and who are excited to contribute to a company that values both tradition and innovation.
At Saint Croix, we don’t just create clothing—we craft works of art that reflect the highest standards of luxury and comfort. We’re more than just a manufacturer; we’re a community of craftsmen, designers, and innovators working together to create something extraordinary.
Saint Croix, Inc., is a fully owned subsidiary of RTP Company. RTP Company is a global compounder of custom-engineered thermoplastics headquartered in Winona, Minnesota.
Knitting Technicians set up the knitting machines and understand the different knitting stitches and styles. They adjust the knitting programs and equipment to ensure that the knit patterns align with the design and quality standards. Additionally, they are skilled in troubleshooting problems and making necessary adjustments to produce high-quality knit fabrics.
- Ability to program and set up knitting machines. Must have complete knowledge of Stoll Sirix, M1/M1-Plus Pattern preparation platforms and Stoll Sintral code.
- Ability to complete patterns requiring multiple carrier intarsia and complex stitch structures including, but not limited to, Gore technique, fully fashion and special case jacquard.
- Responsible for quality control on the knitting floor. Must be able to maintain or exceed Saint Croix's level of quality expectations.
- Work with Floor Supervisors to maintain a safe and enjoyable work environment.
- Responsible to train new technicians and retrain existing technicians as needed
- Work on production-related issues (size changes, size checks, style changes, etc.)
- Monitor all machines to ensure they are running at peak efficiency without compromising quality.
- Responsible for new style changes and the ability to solve any problems associated with the new style.
- Stay current with new technology on the machines.
- Knowledge to work on all circular-type machines. Style changes and problem solving.
- Work with the Sample Team and assist in all aspects of sampling, programming, troubleshooting, scheduling, etc.
- Ability to repair the machine is a plus
- Other duties/responsibilities as assigned, or apparent.
SKILLS AND ABILITIES
- Strong attention to detail and follow-through skills.
- Ability to work independently as well as in a team environment
- Ability to lead a team to meet certain objectives with a positive attitude
- Excellent organizational, planning and prioritization skills
- Exhibits strong problem-solving, deductive reasoning and decision-making skills
- Ability to stand for long periods of time (8-10 hours per day)
- Attendance is an essential function of the position
- Must be able to read, write and speak English
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
- Prefer certification from an accredited Stoll Training Center.
- Prefer 8 -10 years’ experience in the operation and maintenance of Stoll CMS and CMT machines including latest generation OKC type Stoll flatbed machines.
- 1-2 years’ experience operating machines or mechanical aptitude
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND WORKING CONDITIONS
CONTACTS: Internal contacts - Continuously (67 - 100%); External Contacts -Rarely (1 – 10%). Contacts involve giving or exchanging information of a limited controversial nature.
Regularly
- Communicates via person, phone, email, in person.
- Required to stand for 8-10 hours at a time
- Good vision and peripheral vision when working with machines and seeing fine details such as stringing yarn
- Good hand-finger dexterity to tie strings, replace needles
- Operates knitting machines, loads programs, replaces needles and minor maintenance
Frequently
- Talk and hear to coordinate day-to-day knitting activities
- Lift 5- 10 pounds
Occasionally
- Operates copier, computer and other office equipment.
- Must be able to reach above your head to string machines
- Must be able to bend over and squat
- Lift and/or move up to 50 lbs.
The noise level is usually medium to low, due to knitting machines running
EOE, including disability/vets; All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.