Textile Technologist
Jill Simms is a textile technologist who currently works for a large Nottingham-based company, which supplies garments to a large high street retailer.
“It is my job to source fabrics and yarns that are fit for purpose and at the right cost. Some of these fabrics have to perform specialist functions, especially those used in underwear.”
Jill has to use specific testing techniques and work within strict guidelines when choosing appropriate fabrics. Cost is another key consideration of her role, especially in the current economic climate.
“I need to source fabrics that are within budget but still perform, which can be tricky.”
Jill works closely with the in-house design team as she is sourcing materials for them to use. She also has to liaise with a variety of fabric suppliers, especially in the Far East.
“I think you need to be very flexible and organised in this job as you can get a lot of different designers making demands on you so it is important to prioritise the work and not panic. It is also important to have a pleasant personality for dealing with customers and suppliers.”
“I chose to be a fabric technologist because there is such variety in the work, you never get bored. One day you can be testing fabrics, the next you can be colour matching, negotiating on prices or visiting customers and suppliers. I also enjoy the amount of customer contact; it isn’t what I would call a normal 9 to 5 job!”
“I really enjoy the variety of the job; I never know what each day will bring. At the moment I am finding it frustrating trying to find cheap fabrics that are fit for purpose as everyone is keeping costs to a minimum. The current economic climate also means that I don’t get to travel as much to trade shows, which is also disappointing.”
Jill left school with no textile qualifications but working in an admin role within a textiles company gave her access to the industry. She completed specialist training once on the job so that she could perform lab testing jobs.
“All my technical knowledge has also been gained whilst on the job, working with more experienced colleagues. I have recently completed a part time BA Honours degree in Textiles and Footwear from the University of Bolton.”
Jill thinks it is important to have a strong personality, perseverance and patience to be successful in this job as working relationships can take time to establish and many people will be making demands on your time.
Jill Simms's career path
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Job profilesTextile Technologist
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