Junior Materials Developer

Equip Outdoor Technologies; Alfreton CP; Hybrid; GBP 28,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in outdoor clothing is seeking a Junior Materials Developer to assist in materials development from concept to quality management. This role involves working with textiles, collaborating with teams, and ensuring compliance with performance standards. The position offers a competitive salary and benefits, including hybrid working options and a commitment to employee wellbeing.

Benefits

Contributory pension scheme

Profit share bonus

Life assurance

Employee wellbeing resources

Staff discounts

Modern facilities

Free parking

Climate neutrality commitment

Qualifications

• Degree or equivalent in textile-related subject or proven industry experience.
• Understanding of textile dyeing and experience in color management.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Responsibilities

• Assist in all stages of the materials development process.
• Research textile trends and collaborate on new fabric ideas.
• Ensure developments meet performance standards and specifications.

Skills

Strong IT skills

Communication

Organizational skills

Problem-solving skills

Education

Degree in textile-related subject

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Equip Outdoor Technologies UK Ltd, based in Alfreton, Derbyshire, specializes in designing and marketing technical outdoor clothing and equipment. Our experienced team develops innovative designs, manufactured to high standards, and distributed worldwide. We own and operate two leading outdoor brands, Rab and Lowe Alpine. For more information, visit www.equipuk.com.

Our team is located at our Head Office near The Peak District National Park, off junction 28 of the M1 corridor.

Position:

We are recruiting a Junior Materials Developer to assist with all stages of the materials development process, from concept to sourcing, development, and bulk quality management. You will help develop new fabrics and materials to meet seasonal briefs, support quality and color consistency processes, and assist product development teams including product developers, garment technologists, and designers.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Assist in all stages of the materials development process, from initial concept to sourcing, development, and quality management.
2. Research textile and outdoor product trends; collaborate with senior team members to present new fabric and product ideas.
3. Develop fabrics and materials to meet seasonal briefs; support bulk quality and color continuity.
4. Ensure new developments meet performance standards, specifications, compliance, and commercial terms.
5. Work with mills worldwide through the lab dip process to match seasonal color palettes.
6. Maintain a materials database with specifications, commercial info, and compliance documentation.
7. Test new fabric concepts and participate in wearer and field-testing programs.
8. Manage the lab dipping process, addressing color issues and solutions.
9. Assess and approve bulk fabrics, maintaining performance and color standards.
10. Champion fabric performance and testing standards, maintaining test reports.
11. Manage fabric library and storage.

Requirements:

Essential:

• Degree or equivalent in textile-related subject or proven industry experience.
• Strong IT skills, including Microsoft Office proficiency.
• Understanding of textile dyeing and experience in color management.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team; problem-solving skills.
• Positive attitude; quick learner of protocols.

Desirable:

• Interest in outdoor activities and understanding of related activities.
• Experience with global mills and textile sourcing/development.

Other Information:

Salary & Benefits:

• £28,366 – £34,040 per annum, depending on skills and experience.
• Contributory pension scheme, profit share bonus, life assurance.
• Hybrid working and early Friday finishes.
• Employee wellbeing, training resources, staff discounts, and more.
• Modern facilities, free parking, and climate neutrality commitment.

Closing date: 1 June 2025. For inquiries: [e-mail]. No agencies please.

We value diversity and are committed to inclusivity, promoting equality, and celebrating our staff's diversity. We seek passionate individuals who embody our values of Synergy, Ingenuity, Ambition, Determination, and Integrity.