What is the work like?
As a garment technologist, you would support design and buying teams through all stages of product development, from design to manufacture. You could be employed by a garment manufacturer or a large high-street retailer.
Your responsibilities would include:
- suggesting modifications to designs if necessary
- advising on suitable fabrics
- making sure that the most appropriate construction methods are used
- making sure garments can be produced within budget
- overseeing fabric testing and fittings of first samples
- responding to product queries
- analysing product returns and faults.
You would work closely with other staff such as designers, pattern cutters and graders, and buyers.
What qualifications and experience will employers look for?
You would usually need a degree in a subject related to garment technology and production. Some courses combine garment technology with fashion design. Universities offering relevant courses include:
Any work experience you gain during your study will be an advantage when you start applying for jobs.
To search for fashion and textile-related courses and degrees, visit the UCAS website. You should check with the individual colleges and universities for their entry requirements.
You may be able to get into this job through an Apprenticeship scheme. The range of Apprenticeships available in your area will depend on the local jobs market and the types of skills employers need from their workers. For more information on Apprenticeships, visit the Apprenticeships website.
What further training and development can I do?
You would usually start in a junior role (in garment technology, product development, quality control or buying), and add to your practical skills by on-the-job learning. This is a crucial part of your career development.
You could also develop your knowledge and skills by completing relevant qualifications including:
- ABC Level 2 Certificate in Apparel, Footwear, Leather or Textile Production
- ABC Level 3 Diploma in Apparel, Footwear or Leather Production
- ABC Level 3 Certificate in Apparel Manufacturing Technology
- foundation degrees in subjects such as fashion and clothing technology.
You can gain professional recognition by joining the Textile Institute (TI) and applying for qualifications on three levels: Licentiate, Associate and Fellow. The TI also runs conferences, seminars and short courses.
Where can I go for more information?
1st Floor
St James's Buildings
Oxford Street
Manchester
M1 6FQ
Tel: 0161 237 1188
www.textileinstitute.org
www.techtextiles.co.uk/
www.canucutit.co.uk
Tel: 08080 300 900 (England and Northern Ireland)
Tel: 0808 100 8094 (Scotland)
Tel: 08000 121 815 (Wales)
www.skillset.org/careers
Focus Point
21 Caledonian Road
London
N1 9GB
www.skillset.org
What salary and other benefits can I expect?
- Starting salaries can be between £16,000 and £18,000 a year.
- With experience this can rise to £25,000 or more.
- Senior technologists can earn around £50,000.
Figures are intended as a guideline only.
What are the hours and working conditions?
You would work around 38 hours a week, but may sometimes need to do extra hours, for example to make sure collections are produced on time.
You would be office-based, but would travel to meet with customers and suppliers and visit manufacturers. This would often include visiting overseas manufacturers, for example in the Far East or Southern Europe.
What skills and knowledge will I need?
- knowledge of production methods such as stitching and pattern-cutting
- an understanding of manufacturing processes and textile properties
- a strong interest in fashion and clothing retail
- the ability to work alone or as part of a team
- the ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
What opportunities are there?
Most jobs are with manufacturing and retail companies in the fashion industry. You could also be employed in companies producing technical textiles, such as those used in uniforms for the armed forces and emergency services – visit the Technical Textiles website for more information.
With experience, you could progress to senior technologist or technical manager. You may also be able to move into research within a university or similar institution.
