Knitting Technician

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, a global compounder of custom-engineered thermoplastics headquartered in Winona, Minnesota.

JOB SUMMARY

Saint Croix is looking for a Knitting Technician who is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining knitting machines to produce high-quality knit fabrics. This role involves configuring machines to align with specific knitting patterns, adjusting equipment to meet design and quality standards, and troubleshooting any technical issues that arise during production. The technician must possess a strong understanding of various knitting stitches and techniques, ensuring the accurate formation of patterns and fabric textures. Additionally, the role requires continuous monitoring of production to maintain consistency, making necessary adjustments for optimal performance and fabric quality. The Knitting Technician plays a key role in ensuring the efficiency, innovation, and quality of the knitting process, working closely with designers and engineers to create new fabric designs and meet customer specifications.

WORK SCHEDULE

Monday – Thursday 6:00 AM – 4:30 PM (40 hours)

This position is not eligible for sponsorship

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Ability to program and set up knitting machines. Must have complete knowledge of Stoll Sirix, M1/M1-Plus Pattern preparation platforms.
• Ability to complete patterns requiring multiple carrier intarsia and complex stitch structures, including but not limited to the 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.
• 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 latest 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.
• Work with Floor Supervisors to maintain a safe and enjoyable work environment.
• Perform minor maintenance and repairs to knitting machines
• Other duties/responsibilities as assigned, or apparent.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Strong attention to detail and follow-through skills.
• Strong mechanical aptitude
• 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
• 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 3-4 years experience in operating and maintaining 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

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 and color
• Good hand finger dexterity to tie strings, replace needles

Frequently

• Talk and hear to coordinate day-to-day knitting activities
• Must be able to reach above your head to string up machines
• Must be able to squat to inspect knits and maintain the machine
• Lift 5 - 10 pounds

Occasionally

• Operates copier, computer and other office equipment.
• 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.