Technical Officer (Fashion and Textiles)

Help shape the future of fashion through innovation, expertise, and collaboration.

We are looking for a skilled and motivated Textile Testing Technician to join our Fashion Technical Team at Manchester Fashion Institute, Manchester Met. This is an exciting opportunity for someone who is passionate about textiles and fashion technology, and who would enjoy sharing their knowledge in a creative, educational environment.

In this role, you will support teaching, garment development, and innovation by carrying out industry-standard textile testing within our specialist workshops and laboratory facilities. You will work with a wide range of textile equipment and machinery, support practical sessions, and play a vital role in helping students and staff bring ideas to life, safely and to industry standards.

Join the team

You will be part of a collaborative and highly knowledgeable Fashion Technical Team that supports fashion across two buildings. Our team values diversity of experience, fresh ideas, and continuous learning. You will find a welcoming environment where your expertise is respected, and your development is encouraged. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys working with people, is enthusiastic about fashion and textiles, and wants to make a meaningful impact by supporting the next generation of fashion professionals.

About the role

• Conduct a wide range of textile tests using recognised industry standards such as BS, ISO, ASTM, and AATCC, ensuring all activities comply with health & safety, PPE, and environmental regulations.
• Support practical workshops and teaching sessions through sample preparation, equipment set-up, and live demonstrations of industry-standard machinery.
• Provide clear, supportive training and technical guidance to staff and students on textile testing methods and equipment use.
• Apply your knowledge of textile properties, fibre identification, yarns, fabric structures, and technical textiles.
• Record, interpret, and evaluate test results, contributing to learning, research, and innovation.
• Stay up to date with industry developments, including technical textiles, smart and innovative materials, and emerging testing methods.
• Collaborate with the wider team on digital and AI-driven workflows, working with technologies such as Vizoo, CLO3D, Move AI Motion Capture, Magic Mirror, and body scanning.

Why join us?

• Work in modern, well-equipped textile testing facilities.
• Support inspiring teaching, research, and live industry projects.
• Be part of a forward-thinking, inclusive team that values knowledge sharing and creativity.
• Develop your skills while contributing to student experiences and innovative fashion practices.

To apply

If you would like to apply, please review the essential criteria in the job description (available on the university's website, accessed by the 'Apply' button) and submit a covering letter (maximum one A4 page) and a CV (maximum two A4 pages) demonstrating how you meet the requirements of the role via the online application portal.

If you would like more information, please contact Marie Slater at m.slater@mmu.ac.uk.

Further information

Manchester Metropolitan University fosters an inclusive culture of belonging that promotes equity and celebrates diversity. We value a diverse workforce for the innovation and diversity of thought it brings and welcome applications from all local and international communities, including Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic backgrounds, disabled people, and LGBTQ+ individuals.

We support a range of flexible working arrangements, including hybrid and tailored schedules, which can be discussed with your line manager. If you require reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process or in your role, please let us know so we can provide appropriate support.

Our commitment to inclusivity includes mentoring programmes, accessibility resources, and professional development opportunities to empower and support underrepresented groups.

Manchester Met is a Disability Confident Leader and, under this scheme, aims to offer an interview to disabled people who apply for the role and meet the essential criteria as listed in the Job Description for that vacancy.