Textile technologists are involved in the development, production and quality control of fibres, yarns and fabrics. They can work in a range of different areas, including research and development, engineering, production management or quality control.

The work of a textile technologist usually involves:

• 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
• developing 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.

Hours and Environment

As a textile technologist you are likely to work 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday, but may need to work longer hours to finish a job.

You will be based in an office or laboratory, but will usually also spend time on the factory floor.

Skills and Interests

To be a textile technologist you need:

• knowledge of physics and chemistry
• an understanding of computer technology
• the ability to work in, and lead, a team
• an understanding of manufacturing processes and textile properties.

Entry

To become a textile technologist you will usually need a relevant degree. This could be in subjects 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. Please check with local colleges and universities for their entry requirements.

Any work experience you can gain in the textile industry will be an advantage when you start applying for jobs.

As an alternative to a degree you may be able to get in to the industry as a technician and progress after you have gained experience and qualifications. You can find more information in the Textile Technician profile.

Training

You will usually start as an assistant or junior technologist and develop your skills and experience on the job. Your employer may also provide more formal training, or you could attend part-time college courses.

The Textile Institute offers qualifications on three levels: Licentiate, Associate and Fellow. To find out more, visit the TI website – see Further Information for a link.

Computer skills are 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 Technical Textiles: Application in Industry, which is a flexible programme which can be studied by distance learning, supported by drop-in sessions and video conferencing.

Visit the organisations' websites for details of these - see Further Information below.

Opportunities

As a textile technologist you will work for companies producing all types of textiles. You could be involved in developing fibres, yarns and fabrics for use in a number of industries, including fashion, household, industrial and medical textiles.

The job is increasingly international, so the main employers tend to be large global companies.

You could progress to senior technologist, or into specialist areas such as research and development or quality management. You could also move into sales and marketing or general management.

Annual Income

Figures are only intended as a guideline.

Starting salaries can be around £13,000  to around £18,000 a year
With experience this can rise to around £30,000 or more.

Further information

1st Floor
St James's Buildings
Oxford Street
Manchester
M1 6FQ
Tel: 0161 237 1188 Textile House
Red Doles Lane
Huddersfield
HD2 1YF
Tel: 01484 346500 PO Box 244
Perkin House
82 Grattan Road
Bradford
BD1 2JB
Tel: 01274 725138