Analytical Textile Technologist
What is the work like?
Analytical textile technologists use their knowledge of the technical properties of textile materials and their understanding of production techniques to:
- solve technical queries about the manufacturing process
- assess quality
- carry out investigations such as fitness for purpose and fault-finding
- help solve disputes, for example finding out if a product fault is due to the manufacturer or to customer misuse
- make sure that labels are correct, for example finding out if a garment that claims to be made from cashmere really is.
As an analytical textile technologist, you could work in-house for a textile manufacturer, or as a consultant to a number of different clients, including manufacturers, legal institutions, retailers and consumers. Your tasks would typically include:
- liaising with customers, staff and suppliers
- analysing samples and carrying out rigorous testing
- using analytical techniques and instruments, such as microscopes and infrared
- assessing technical performance specifications
- developing new analytical techniques
- interpreting and reporting data, keeping to strict guidelines
- writing technical reports and cost estimates
- being aware of health and safety issues.
You would need to keep up to date with new design and production techniques, and advances in science.
What qualifications and experience will employers look for?
Most employers will prefer you to have a degree in textiles technology. Suitable courses include the following, which are offered at the University of Manchester:
- BSc (Hons) Textile Technology (Business Management)
- BSc (Hons) Textile Science and Technology.
You may also find a degree in a scientific or engineering subject useful.
You will have an advantage if you follow your degree with a postgraduate qualification in textiles technology, particularly if you have a non-textiles first degree.
Suitable postgraduate courses include:
- MSc in Textile Technology – University of Manchester
- MSc in Advanced Textile and Performance Clothing – University of Leeds
- MSc in Textile Engineering – University of Bolton.
Alternatively, you can do training and postgraduate research in textiles at other universities, such as Heriot-Watt University and the University of Huddersfield.
You may be able to start in the industry as a technician, but you will need a degree or professional qualification to progress your career. A foundation degree will give you the opportunity for developing your career whilst working. For example, you can complete a distance learning Foundation Degree in Textiles at the University of Bolton.
What further training and development can I do?
On-the-job learning is a crucial part of developing your technical knowledge and skills – once you are working as an analytical textile technologist you will develop your existing skills and learn many new ones.
You could add to your on-the-job learning in a variety of ways, including:
- training in more general skills, such as management, leadership, presentation skills, languages and IT skills
- courses in specialised areas, for example microscopy, which is offered by the Royal Microscopical Society
- completing qualifications offered by the Textile Institute (TI), including its Fellowship, Associateship and Licentiateship
- attending courses such as those offered by the Textile Centre of Excellence in Huddersfield.
Visit the TI and Textile Centre of Excellence websites for details of their courses.
You can also keep up to date with the latest developments and challenges faced by the textiles sector by reading the academic journals published by the TI, and attending TI events that bring together professionals, practitioners and academics working in the global textiles industry.
You could also join local societies, including the Bradford Textile Society and Huddersfield Textile Society.
You may have the opportunity to carry out research in association with universities that have a textiles specialism.
Where can I go for more information?
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 around £15,000 a year.
- With experience this can rise to between £25,000 and £35,000.
Figures are only intended as a guide.
What are the hours and working conditions?
Your working week will usually be around 37 hours, but can be longer if you are self-employed, depending on the amount of work you have and the deadlines you need to meet.
Most of your work will take place in a laboratory.
What skills and knowledge will I need?
- an interest in physics and a general aptitude for science
- a detailed understanding of textile structures and technical textiles
- a general understanding of all stages of textile production and processing
- an inquisitive but disciplined mind
- time management skills and the ability to work to tight deadlines
- good concentration levels
- laboratory skills
- the ability to produce accurate records and written reports
- team leading ability.
What opportunities are there?
The technical textiles sector covers the following types of textiles:
- medical
- construction
- clothing
- automotive
- aerospace
- defence
- agricultural.
Some of the world's leading technical textiles companies are based in the UK, producing, for example, clothing for NASA technicians and airbags for the major car manufacturers.
Career prospects are good, as the sector relies on continuous technical innovation and product development and, according to Skillfast-UK, employers report a shortage of graduates with the required knowledge, skills and experience.
You may find the following useful for job vacancies and general reading: (links open in new window)
Textile Institute
Association of Suppliers to the British Clothing Industry
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