Textile dyeing technician

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• a college course
• an apprenticeship
• training with a professional body

University

You could do a higher national diploma or degree in:

• chemical engineering
• textile technology
• chemistry

You could also take a course in fashion and textiles if it covers manufacturing processes.

Entry requirements:

• between 1 and 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a higher national diploma or degree

College

You could do a college course, which may help you to get a job as a trainee dyeing technician. Courses include:

• Level 3 Diploma In Textile Design and Manufacture
• A level Chemistry
• Level 3 Diploma in Applied Science

Entry requirements:

• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science

Apprenticeship

You could apply to do a Textile Technical Specialist Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship.

This usually takes 2 years to complete and is a mix of on the job learning and study.

Entry requirements:

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship

OtherRoutes

You could train with the Society of Dyers and Colourists , who offer courses from introductory level to advanced. You'll usually need to be working in textiles production or research to do the more advanced courses.

Required Skills:

Digital skills : to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Skills:

• knowledge of chemistry including the safe use and disposal of chemicals
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• knowledge of manufacturing production and processes
• observation and recording skills
• the ability to work well with others
• the ability to operate and control equipment
• the ability to work well with your hands
• knowledge of maths
• thinking and reasoning skills
• the ability to use your initiative
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• sensitivity and understanding
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• the ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools
• excellent verbal communication skills
• physical skills like movement, coordination, dexterity and grace
• the ability to monitor your own performance and that of your colleagues
• practical skills for repairing and maintaining equipment
• knowledge of public safety and security
• the ability to read English

What you'll do:

Textile dyeing technicians create dyes to colour fibres and fabrics.

In your day-to-day duties you could:

• develop chemical 'recipes' to produce different colours and dyes
• work out the correct temperatures to suit different dyeing methods
• test sample dyes
• mix batches of dye for use in textiles manufacturing
• recommend special finishes or treatments
• keep records of the dye development process and its results

Location : You could work in a workshop or in a laboratory.
Uniform : You may need to wear safety clothing and use safety equipment.

Salary:

Starter : £17,000
Experienced : £35,000

These figures are a guide

Working hours:

40 - 42 hours a week

Working Pattern is 9am to 5pm

Career Path:

You could move into research and development, quality control or production management. You might also work in technical sales, acting as a link between dye suppliers and textile manufacturers.

You could transfer to different areas of manufacturing that also use dye technology, like the food and drinks industry.