Textile Research Engineer | Fabric Innovation Specialist

Role overview

Research and development

• Research fibers, yarns, fabrics, finishes, and advanced textile materials for apparel, home textiles, industrial applications, and technical textiles.
• Evaluate natural, synthetic, blended, recycled, and emerging bio-based materials and study how construction and processing affect performance.
• Develop and validate fiber blends, fabric structures, formulations, and finishing treatments; assess dyeing, printing, coating, and lamination.
• Research smart textiles, technical fabrics, nanotechnology-based finishes, and functional material systems.

Testing, quality, and collaboration

• Design experiments and test fabric strength, elasticity, durability, dimensional stability, colorfastness, and functional characteristics.
• Coordinate testing for tensile strength, tear resistance, abrasion, pilling, shrinkage, moisture management, breathability, thermal insulation, water resistance, and antimicrobial performance where applicable.
• Analyze results, prepare technical reports, and establish testing protocols and evaluation criteria.
• Coordinate prototypes, sample preparation, laboratory trials, and pilot-scale testing; investigate defects and recommend corrective actions.
• Work with internal teams, suppliers, mills, external laboratories, universities, research institutions, and technology partners.

Improvement and documentation

• Identify improvements in fabric quality, functionality, manufacturing efficiency, and product consistency.
• Evaluate alternatives for cost, availability, durability, environmental performance, energy savings, waste reduction, and resource use.
• Maintain records of experiments, specifications, results, prototypes, and research findings; prepare presentations, proposals, and product specifications.
• Monitor textile regulations, standards, technologies, and research; support eligible intellectual property documentation and continuous improvement.
• Provide technical guidance to junior researchers, laboratory technicians, and product development personnel.

Education and experience

• Bachelor's degree in Textile Engineering, Textile Science, Materials Science, Polymer Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Relevant professional experience in textile research, fabric development, material testing, or textile manufacturing.
• A master's degree or specialized research experience in advanced textiles, functional materials, or fiber science is advantageous.

Technical qualifications

• Strong understanding of fibers, yarn manufacturing, fabric construction, dyeing, finishing, textile processing, and physical, mechanical, chemical, and functional properties.
• Experience conducting laboratory experiments, analyzing results, and documenting research findings; familiarity with textile testing methods and ISO or AATCC standards.
• Knowledge of fiber blends, fabric structures, coatings, laminations, and performance-enhancing treatments.
• Laboratory equipment experience is preferred; LIMS or materials testing software familiarity is beneficial.
• Understanding of statistical analysis, experimental design, research methodology, chemical handling, laboratory safety, and environmental compliance.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and laboratory reporting data analysis tools; strong technical writing, presentation, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

What the employer offers

• Competitive salary and comprehensive employee benefits.
• Access to laboratory facilities, technical equipment, material development resources, and relevant technical training.
• Professional development and collaboration opportunities in textile engineering, materials science, research, and advanced or sustainable textiles.
• Opportunities to contribute to product development, commercialization, technical improvements, and career advancement.