Retail Store Tailor Apprentice

About the Role

The Tailor delivers high-quality craftsmanship and ensures a perfect fit for customers through clothing alterations, measurements, fittings, and garment repairs. This role requires a keen eye for detail, strong sewing and alteration abilities, and a commitment to excellence. As a key member of a high-performing team, the Tailor demonstrates reliability, accuracy, efficiency, and a strong focus on customer satisfaction while contributing to a positive and professional work environment.

Responsibilities

• Tailor Shop Production & Operations
  • Efficiently perform standard alterations—including pant hems, waist and seat adjustments, rise and tapering modifications, coat sleeves, side seams, and lower collar adjustments—in alignment with company guidelines.
  • Maintain an average of 60 minutes of productive alteration work per working hour, allowing for rest, meal periods, and non-tailoring tasks.
  • Ensure all garments meet high-quality standards, including clean finishes, secure stitching, even seams, and removal of loose threads and pins.
  • Press garments to ensure a clean, crisp finish.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and efficient workspace; properly store and maintain all tools and materials.
  • Demonstrate proficiency with all tailor shop equipment.
  • Ensure completed work is accurately tagged, organized, and ready for customer pickup.
  • Assist with inventory management by monitoring tailoring supplies and requesting replenishment as needed.
• Customer Service
  • Support front-of-house activities as needed, such as cleaning, restocking merchandise, or assisting customers.
  • Participate in customer consultations, offering guidance and recommendations on alterations and garment fit.
  • Deliver an exceptional customer experience by listening to needs and offering personalized solutions.
  • Adapt to changing workload priorities and scheduling needs as directed by management.
• Team Collaboration
  • Share specialized tailoring knowledge and techniques with fellow tailors to ensure consistent quality and skill development.
  • Assist in training sales staff on tailoring fundamentals, including marking, fitting, measuring, and pressing techniques.
  • Seek and respond to constructive feedback from management and communicate concerns or requests promptly.
  • Report incidents, accidents, or safety hazards to the manager on duty or Regional Manager.
  • Support sales staff by providing tailoring insights that enhance product knowledge and improve the customer experience.
  • Uphold standards of professional appearance and personal care.

Requirements

• Ability to operate small tools and equipment—including needles, scissors, sewing machines, and presses—with precision.
• Ability to understand, follow, and execute detailed instructions.
• Ability to sit and stand for extended periods.
• Strong attention to detail to ensure all garments meet quality standards.
• Excellent time management skills to complete alterations efficiently within designated timeframes.
• Clear and professional communication skills.
• Ability to read, count, and write to complete required documentation accurately.
• Physical ability to bend, squat, lift arms overhead, and use ladders to access merchandise and supplies.
• Availability to work at least 20 hours per week, including any days and hours the store is in operation.

Pay

Pay Range: $14.00–$21.00 per hour, based on skills, background, experience, and market location. May be subject to prevailing wage laws where applicable.