Textile operatives work on the machines in the production area of a textiles or clothing factory, making sure they run smoothly and are well supplied with fabric and materials. Some machines are computerised, allowing operatives to oversee several tasks at the same time.

The work of a textile operative is to:

• set up the machines, following instructions for the particular production batch
• make minor adjustments to machinery during the process
• clean machines and production areas
• call on technicians to deal with machinery faults and breakdowns
• load and unload delivery wagons.

Textile operatives work in four main production areas:

• fibre preparation - where fibres are combed, cleaned and carded, then twisted into a rope-like length called a 'sliver'
  
• spinning - which takes place on automated machinery, drawing and twisting the sliver, and winding it on to bobbins or cones
  
• fabric production - which involves weaving, knitting or looping threads together
  
• dyeing and finishing - including processes like as printing, and treating fabrics to give a particular appearance or quality, such as stain or crease resistance.

Hours and Environment

Textile operatives work between 37 and 40 hours a week, with some factories operating shift patterns.

Most modern textile factories are light and airy although the atmosphere can be hot, humid and noisy. You spend most of your time standing when operating the machines in the production area, and you wear protective clothing where required.

Skills and Interests

To be a textile operative you need:

• good practical skills
• the ability to concentrate for long periods and perform repetitive tasks 
• clear eyesight normal colour vision
• a methodical approach to work
• the ability to work alone or as part of a team 
• good communication skills
• a clear understanding of health and safety practices 
• a reasonable level of fitness.

Entry

You do not need any particular academic qualifications to start as a textile operative.

You may be able to enter as an apprentice with a textiles manufacturer. Funding for apprenticeships is available for 16-24 year olds and some over-25s. To find out more, visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk. For information about apprenticeships in other parts of the UK, see Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

You will need four GCSEs (A-C)/S grades (1-3) for an apprenticeship scheme in subjects such as maths, English, chemistry, design and technology or science.

The following qualifications may be helpful for general background to this role, although they are not essential:

• Edexcel (BTEC) First Certificate/Diploma and National Certificate/Diploma in Textiles
• City & Guilds Certificate in the Principles and Practice of Textile Manufacture at Level 3.

For details about roles in the clothing and textiles industries, see Skillfast-UK, the Sector Skills Council for the clothing, footwear and textiles industry, in Further Information.

Training

When working as a textile operative, you can complete a number of relevant NVQs/SVQs awards. These include:

• Manufacturing Textiles (4132) at levels 1 to 3
• Manufacturing Sewn Products at levels 1 and 2.

If you are involved in storage and distribution work, there are NVQs/SVQs in Distribution, Warehousing and Storage Operations at levels 2 and 3.

Opportunities

Textile operatives work in parts of the country associated with clothing and textiles manufacturing. These include the East Midlands, north-west, Yorkshire, and parts of Scotland and Northern Ireland.

With experience and training, you can move into supervisory positions, quality control or technician roles. There is a trend for production processes to be shifted overseas, with more technical jobs remaining in the UK. With this in mind, operatives who can develop their skills into related areas, such as those mentioned above, are likely to enjoy the best prospects.

Annual Income

Figures are intended as a guideline only.

Salaries start at between £10,500 and £12,500.
With experience this rises to between £13,000 and £17,000.
Senior operatives may earn up to £20,000.

Further information