R&D Textile Technologist

Workwear Group; City of Port Phillip; On-site; AUD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible working environment

50% discount on brands

5% Wesfarmers discount

Tailored career development plan

Wellbeing program

Learning and development hub

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dedicated R&D professional to oversee the development of raw materials for corporate clients. This role involves driving innovation in fabrics and trims while ensuring quality and performance meet customer expectations. Join a passionate team committed to sustainability and excellence in workwear solutions. With a focus on collaboration and continuous improvement, you'll thrive in a supportive environment that values diversity and personal growth. This is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact in a dynamic industry.

Qualifications

• 5+ years in R&D with a focus on textile technology and manufacturing.
• Comprehensive knowledge of fabric properties and garment finishing.

Responsibilities

• Oversee development of raw materials for corporate clients.
• Collaborate with design teams and ensure fabric quality standards.

Skills

Problem-solving

Strong work ethic

Accountability

Innovation

Relationship building

Education

Relevant qualification in textile technology

Tools

Raw Material Matrix

Tracker Systems

Job description

About Us

Workwear Group (WWG) is part of Wesfarmers Industrial & Safety, a division of Wesfarmers, a top 20 ASX listed company with over 100,000 employees. Housed under the banner of Workwear Group, our three iconic brands - KingGee, Hard Yakka and NNT - have been in the business of delivering workwear since the late 1920's.

We are the trusted partner in workwear solutions, manufacturing over seven million units each year. What sets us apart is our continuous investment in innovation, market knowledge, pioneering ideas and sustainability practices.

We work as one team. We put our customers first and are passionate about what we do. Joining WWG is an opportunity to thrive in an inspiring, safe, and inclusive community.

About the Role

The key role involves overseeing the development of raw materials for our Corporate Clients. Responsibilities include driving research and development of fabrics, trims, and technological advancements. Additionally, the role provides technical support to various teams and ensures fabric quality, performance, and pricing align with customer needs. Maintaining fabric standards and collaborating with stakeholders are also essential aspects of this position.

This role is a 12 Month maternity leave cover.

What you’ll be doing

1. Set up and maintain Raw Material Matrix and Tracker.
2. Source and develop raw materials to meet timelines and product briefs.
3. Collaborate with the Design Team for clear communication on R&D projects.
4. Provide technical advice and support for fabric development.
5. Review fabric test results and wear test samples.
6. Establish and maintain fabric and trim standards.
7. Ensure all raw materials have specifications in line with company guidelines.
8. Sign off on colour and raw material performance test reports.
9. Proactively research fabric trends, innovation, and technology.
10. Utilize consumer insights and sales analysis for viable options.
11. Share findings with Design and Product Management teams.
12. Maintain quality levels of raw materials.
13. Resolve fabric issues with suppliers.
14. Compile test matrices for new product development.
15. Align sourcing with supply chain strategy.
16. Complete due diligence in R&D testing.
17. Conduct risk assessments for raw materials.
18. Collaborate with various teams on risk assessment.
19. Ensure raw material approval meets standards and legal requirements.
20. Support other departments to improve product quality and brand perception.
21. Identify opportunities to enhance fabric development processes.
22. Assist as requested by the Design Manager.

Who we’re looking for

At our company, we value not only our great brands but also the people and teams that drive our success. In addition to technical skills, we seek team members who possess the following personable qualities:

• Strong work ethic and are committed to showing up for a team.
• Openness to receive coaching and embrace self-reflection and self-growth.
• Accountability for your actions and emotions, and actively venture beyond your comfort zone.
• Embrace innovation, take calculated risks, and inspire others to think outside the box.
• Ability to build meaningful relationships; we prioritise our customers. Balancing commercial goals with customer satisfaction is key.
• Ethical standards and demonstrating honesty and integrity in all interactions is fundamental to our team culture.

What we’re looking for

• Experience in textile, workwear, protective wear and fashion industry preferred.
• At least 5 years’ experience in R&D required.
• Comprehensive knowledge of textile technology and textile manufacturing with relevant qualification.
• Problem-solving attributes.
• Knowledge of fibers, yarns, knitting, dyeing, print techniques, fabric properties and garment finishing techniques.
• Knowledge and understanding of textiles both in garment construction and industry workings.

What we offer

• The chance to join a great team of like-minded, hard-working people who are passionate about achieving our vision and the growth objectives of the company.
• Flexible working environment, allowing for work from home day/s each week.
• A competitive salary package and suite of benefits and perks, including a 50% discount on our brands Hard Yakka, KingGee and NNT and 5% Wesfarmers discount for Kmart, Bunnings, Officeworks and more.
• A tailored career and development plan, plus reward and recognition programs. Whatever your goals we’re here to support you on that journey.
• Our Wellbeing program, Thrive, with activities designed to support the Financial Wellness of our team, Celebrate Diversity, ensure we Get Physical and maintain Healthy Minds, including challenges, yoga, meditation and access to our Employee Assistance Program.
• We Learn, a dedicated hub for all things learning and development.

We actively work on creating a safe and inclusive environment free of discrimination. At Workwear Group we aspire to build a culture where diversity is celebrated, where Team Members feel a sense of “I Belong” and are empowered to bring their whole selves to work.

You can follow us on LinkedIn or see our company careers page for more opportunities here.

Thank you for your interest in Workwear Group. Due to anticipated high volumes of applicants, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.