Garment technologist

Garment technologists make sure that clothing is made using the most cost effective and efficient methods, while keeping quality standards.

Also known as:

• Clothing technologist

Work activities

Garment technologists make sure that garments meet quality standards, while still being made using the most efficient and cost-effective methods. They decide the most efficient way of using resources, for example, materials, finance and people. When the design department produces a new product, technologists are involved in discussions about what is needed to manufacture the product effectively. For instance, extra attachments to machinery may be needed or staff may need further training. Technologists check that all manufacturing processes are running smoothly, and they try to solve problems as they arise. They have to investigate why production targets are not being met, or why there are high rejection rates from the quality control department. Technologists then plan and monitor the test production of a limited number of garments. Finally, they may decide to change the design so that it can be produced at a lower cost.

Personal qualities and skills

To do this job well, you’ll need:

• Knowledge of pattern-cutting and garment construction.
• Financial skills, if you’re in control of budgets.
• Good IT skills.
• To be well organised as the job can be varied with many different projects happening at the same time.
• Teamworking skills.
• People with skin conditions and breathing problems may need to think carefully about entering this job.

Pay and opportunities

Pay rates for garment technologists vary depending on the branch of the industry, employer and responsibilities. However, they tend to start on around £20,000, rising to as much as £35,000 a year with experience.

Technologists usually work a 38-40-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 UK’s largest industries. The industry is keen to recruit technologists so opportunities for new entrants are good.

Employers are firms of various sizes from small family-run businesses to multi-national companies. Opportunities for garment technologists occur with employers in towns and cities throughout the UK.

Where are vacancies advertised?

Vacancies are advertised on all the major job boards, and on the Government’s Find a Job service.

Entry routes and training

Most garment technologists have high-level qualifications, such as:

• HNDs.
• HNCs.
• Foundation degrees.
• Degrees.

Subjects such as textiles, textiles technology, and fashion and clothing technology will be useful for people wanting to get into this career. It is sometimes possible to enter this career following A-levels or equivalent qualifications.

A good way of entering this profession is through a level 4 (higher) apprenticeship in the role of fashion and textiles product technologist. Training is on-the-job, with the opportunity to work towards relevant qualification as well.

It is also possible to work up from operative- and technician-level jobs by studying for equivalent qualifications on a part-time basis. Postgraduate courses are available and postgraduate traineeships are offered by some large clothing retail organisations.

Progression will often be to positions with greater responsibility and more supervisory duties.

Qualifications

To enter an HNC, HND or foundation degree in a relevant subject, you will usually need:

• One A-level; science subjects are useful.
• A GCSE at grades 9-4 in your A-level subject.
• A further three to four GCSEs at grades 9-4, including English and maths. A pass in design and technology (textiles technology) would be useful.

Other qualifications are often acceptable as alternatives to A-levels, for example:

• Edexcel (BTEC) level 3 National qualifications.
• International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma. However, entry requirements for different courses vary, so check university prospectuses for more details.

For entry to a relevant degree course, the minimum requirement is usually:

• Two to three A-levels.
• GCSEs at grades 9-4 in your A-level subjects.
• A further two to three GCSEs at grades 9-4, including English and Maths.

Other qualifications are often acceptable as alternatives to A-levels, for example:

• Edexcel (BTEC) level 3 National qualifications.
• International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma.

However, entry requirements for different courses vary, so check university prospectuses for more details.

To start higher apprenticeship, you will need two A-levels and GCSEs in English and maths.

Adult opportunities

Age limits: 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 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.

If you don’t have the qualifications needed to enter your chosen degree or HND course, a college or university Access course could be the way in. No formal qualifications are usually required, but you should check individual course details.

Related careers

• Dry cleaning/laundry manager
• Engineer
• Fashion designer
• Manager
• Pattern cutter
• Textile technologist