Textile Machinery Operator / Technician

SUMMARY

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Safely operate and monitor textile processing equipment including carding, drawing, roving, spinning, winding, warping, and weaving machines. Assist in the setup, adjustment, and calibration of machinery for research and development trials. Support faculty, staff, and students with experimental production runs, sample preparation, and process data collection. Perform routine maintenance, cleaning, and minor repairs to ensure optimal equipment performance. Maintain accurate records of machine operation parameters, materials used, and test results. Ensure compliance with safety procedures, including the use of PPE and adherence to lockout/tagout protocols. Collaborate with engineering, materials, and research teams to support process innovation and troubleshooting. Assist in inventory management of raw fibers, yarns, and consumable supplies.
• Safely operate and monitor textile processing equipment including carding, drawing, roving, spinning, winding, warping, and weaving machines.
• Assist in the setup, adjustment, and calibration of machinery for research and development trials.
• Support faculty, staff, and students with experimental production runs, sample preparation, and process data collection.
• Perform routine maintenance, cleaning, and minor repairs to ensure optimal equipment performance.
• Maintain accurate records of machine operation parameters, materials used, and test results.
• Ensure compliance with safety procedures, including the use of PPE and adherence to lockout/tagout protocols.
• Collaborate with engineering, materials, and research teams to support process innovation and troubleshooting.
• Assist in inventory management of raw fibers, yarns, and consumable supplies.

MINIMUM EDUCATION QUALIFICATIONS

• High School Diploma or equivalent

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE QUALIFICATIONS

• Prior experience operating spinning, carding, weaving, or knitting equipment in an industrial or academic setting preferred. Familiarity with fiber and yarn properties, textile process flow, and quality control methods is preferred. Strong mechanical aptitude and attention to detail. Ability to read and interpret technical manuals and operating instructions. Basic computer proficiency (Microsoft Office, data entry, etc.). Commitment to safety, precision, and teamwork in a research-oriented environment. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS This position operates primarily in a textile product development laboratory or pilot plant setting. Requires standing for extended periods, handling of fibers and yarns, and occasional lifting of up to 50 lbs. The technician will interact closely with students, researchers, and outside clients in a collaborative academic environment.
• Prior experience operating spinning, carding, weaving, or knitting equipment in an industrial or academic setting preferred.
• Familiarity with fiber and yarn properties, textile process flow, and quality control methods is preferred.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and attention to detail.
• Ability to read and interpret technical manuals and operating instructions.
• Basic computer proficiency (Microsoft Office, data entry, etc.).
• Commitment to safety, precision, and teamwork in a research-oriented environment.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• This position operates primarily in a textile product development laboratory or pilot plant setting.
• Requires standing for extended periods, handling of fibers and yarns, and occasional lifting of up to 50 lbs.
• The technician will interact closely with students, researchers, and outside clients in a collaborative academic environment.

Supplemental Questions