Clothing Technologist/Manager

Introduction

Clothing technologists and managers make sure that clothing is manufactured by the most cost effective and efficient methods, while maintaining quality standards. They apply their knowledge of equipment, fabrics and production processes.

Back to Top

Work Activities

Clothing technologists make sure that garments meet quality standards, whilst at the same time being manufactured by the most efficient and cost effective methods.

To be able to do this, clothing technologists must understand how the manufacturing equipment works. They must also know about fabrics and their suitability for different purposes.

Clothing technologists check that manufacturing processes are running smoothly. They aim to solve problems as they arise. If necessary, they investigate why production targets are not being met, or why there are high rejection rates from the quality control department.

When the design department produces a new item, technologists are involved in deciding what is needed to manufacture it effectively. For instance, extra attachments to machinery may be needed or staff may need further training.

Technologists then plan and monitor the test production of a limited number of sample garments. The technologist may decide to alter the design so that it can be produced more quickly, or at a lower cost. This must be done without moving away from the original idea.

Back to Top

Personal Qualities and Skills

You need to be a skilful manager of people, able to use tact, diplomacy and persuasive skills when necessary. You must be well organised, to make sure that deadlines are met.

You should be able to work on your own and also as part of a team.

Back to Top

Pay and Opportunities

Salaries for clothing technologists/managers depend on the branch of the industry, employer and responsibilities.

The pay rates given below are approximate.

Clothing technologists earn in the range of £22,500 - £26,500 a year, rising to £33,000 - £39,000. Higher earners can make around £42,000 a year.

Technologists usually work a 39-hour week, Monday to Friday. However, those who work in a production environment may be required to work shifts and weekends.

The clothing industry is one of the United Kingdom's largest industries. However different sectors tend to be located in different areas.

For example:
• woollens and worsteds in West Yorkshire and Scotland
• cotton and allied textiles in Lancashire
• carpets in the North Midlands and West Midlands, Northern Ireland and the South West
• lace and narrow fabrics in the East Midlands.

There are about 600 clothing and textile companies within Scotland, mostly in the Borders.

Of the 250 workers in the Harris Tweed industry who are based in the Western Isles, 150 of them work from home on handlooms while the rest are in mills.

Many factories have been relocated abroad in recent years. However, the industry is keen to recruit technologists, so opportunities for new entrants are very good.

Back to Top

Adult Opportunities

It is illegal for any organisation to set age limits for entry to employment, education or training, unless they can show there is a real need to have these limits.

Most entrants have skills and abilities gained in some form of garment manufacturing. Many have worked as sewing machinists or in tailoring.

Practical work in the clothing manufacturing industry is valuable. An interest in fashion and design is also helpful.

Modern Apprenticeships may be available in some areas.

• 5% of people in occupations such as clothing technologist work part-time.
• 17% have flexible hours.
• 4% of employees work on a temporary basis.

Back to Top