Textile Technologist
What is the work like?
Textile technologists are involved in the development and production of fibres, yarns and fabrics. They can work in a range of different areas, including research and development, engineering, production management or quality control.
As a textile technologist your work would often include:
- developing new synthetic fibres and fabrics
- finding ways to improve the look, feel and durability of fabrics
- developing chemical processes and additives to improve performance, for example waterproofing and flame-resistance
- creating new colour recipes for the dyeing process
- researching more efficient production methods
- programming new processes into computers for textile machines
- overseeing the production process
- testing fabrics and fibres, for example for strength or colour fastness.
What qualifications and experience will employers look for?
Before you can work as a junior or assistant textile technologist, you will usually need a degree in a subject such as:
- textile technology
- textile science
- materials science or technology
- chemical or physical sciences
- production or manufacturing engineering.
To search for colleges and universities offering fashion and textile-related courses and degrees, visit the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) website. Check with local colleges and universities for their entry requirements.
As an alternative to a degree you may be able to get in to the industry as an operative or technician and progress after you have gained experience and qualifications (for example, through part-time study). You can find more information in the Textile Operative job profile.
You would be at an advantage if you had some relevant work experience in the textile industry before you start applying for jobs.
What further training and development can I do?
Once you are working as an assistant or junior technologist, you will usually be encouraged to develop your skills on the job whilst working alongside experienced colleagues. You may also get the chance to have more formal training from your employer or attend part-time college courses.
The Textile Institute (TI) offers professional development qualifications on three levels – Licentiate, Associate and Fellow. To find out more, visit the TI website.
Computer skills are also important for this type of work – you can keep up to date with these by taking part-time or distance learning courses.
You can also develop your skills by doing courses run by professional bodies, for example:
- The Society of Dyers and Colourists runs a range of qualifications and courses, some by distance learning
- The Textile Centre of Excellence has developed a Technical Certificate in Textiles, which is a flexible programme, available by distance learning, supported by drop-in sessions and video conferencing.
Where can I go for more information?
St James's Buildings
Oxford Street
Manchester
M1 6FQ
Tel: 0161 237 1188
Red Doles Lane
Huddersfield
HD2 1YF
Tel: 01484 346500
Perkin House
82 Grattan Road
Bradford
BD1 2JB
Tel: 01274 725138
If you would like to discuss your career options with a learning adviser, call 0800 100 900 or use our online enquiry form
Alternatively, you can visit our website at: www.direct.gov.uk/careersadvice
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What salary and other benefits can I expect?
- Starting salaries can be between £13,500 and £18,000 a year.
- With experience this can rise to around £30,000 or more.
Figures are only intended as a guideline only.
What are the hours and working conditions?
You would normally work 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. Occasionally you may need to cover longer hours to meet deadlines.
You will be based in an office or laboratory, but you are also likely to spend time on the factory floor.
What skills and knowledge will I need?
- knowledge of physics and chemistry
- an understanding of computer technology
- good team working skills
- leadership skills
- an understanding of manufacturing processes
- knowledge of textile properties.
What opportunities are there?
You could work with companies producing textiles for use in a number of industries, including fashion, household, industrial and medical textiles. The main employers tend to be large multinational companies.
With experience, you could progress to senior technologist or move into a specialist area such as research and development or quality management. You could also go into related areas of work such as sales and marketing or general management.
Jobs can be advertised in the local and national press, as well as in specialist publications and on websites such as Drapers.
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