What Does a Textile Technician Do?

A textile technician is responsible for performing various functions in the textile industry. These functions include design, production, and quality control of textile products. Technicians may be machine operators and work in supervisory positions and some assist fashion designers. A high school diploma is usually all that is required to qualify for such as position.

There are several major industry establishments in which textile technicians are employed. Some may be employed at the textile mills that convert natural or synthetic materials to the fiber, yarn and thread that become cotton or polyester materials. Textile product mills use the fibers, yarns, and threads to produce items such as carpet, upholstery, and other materials. The apparel manufacturing industry uses fabrics to make clothing and related accessories.

Employment opportunities for a textile technician are commonly found in production operations. Depending on the type of textile industry, a textile technician may be a sewing machine operator or an operator of machines used to dye, cut, shape, and assemble fabrics. As a machine operator, the technician may also be trained to craft materials for shoes. Technicians who are very experienced will often supervise production operations in a warehouse that is used to produce and store raw materials and finished goods. Textile technicians may also work in quality control.

While not technically textile technicians, textile mechanics do work in the textile industry, where they inspect and repair the machines that are used to create products. Engineers and engineering technicians help design new equipment or make improvements to existing equipment. The textile industry also requires computers and automated machinery that must be maintained by certified individuals.

A textile technician may be involved in the design of apparel or other fabric items. This type of employment includes the creation of designs and patterns to be used as prototypes, or models, for the mass production of finished products. Fashion designers may employ these individuals to assist them in this process, to ensure that their products are of high quality, even when mass produced.

Textile technicians often receive training on the job. Entry-level positions in production operations usually require little more than a standard high school diploma or its equivalent. If the textile technician's work involves computerized equipment or specialized systems, it is possible that specific training or educational certifications will be preferred or required.