Textile Research Engineer - Fabric Innovation Specialist

About the role

A full-time, mid-to-senior level Textile Research Engineer / Fabric Innovation Specialist is sought to lead textile research, fabric development, material testing and performance optimisation. The role combines textile engineering, fiber science, laboratory testing, sustainable material development and manufacturing process improvement to deliver high-performance textile solutions.

Key responsibilities

• Carry out R&D on fibers, yarns, fabrics, finishes and advanced textile materials, and develop fabric solutions for apparel, home textiles, industrial and technical textiles.
• Evaluate natural, synthetic, blended and recycled fibers, and emerging bio-based alternatives, and study how fiber composition, yarn structure and finishing affect performance.
• Design and run lab experiments and coordinate testing for tensile strength, tear and abrasion resistance, pilling, shrinkage, colorfastness, moisture management, breathability, thermal insulation, water resistance and antimicrobial performance.
• Analyze results, write technical reports and identify ways to improve fabric quality, manufacturing efficiency and product consistency.
• Collaborate with product development, garment engineering, sourcing, manufacturing and quality assurance teams, and work with suppliers and mills on raw materials and specifications.
• Support qualification of new fabrics, yarns, fibers, dyes and finishing agents, and investigate defects and quality issues through root-cause analysis.
• Research smart textiles, technical fabrics, nanotechnology-based finishes and sustainable options such as recycled fibers and low-impact dyeing, and suggest process improvements for energy and waste.
• Coordinate prototype production, sample preparation, lab trials and pilot-scale testing, and establish testing protocols and evaluation criteria.
• Work with external labs, universities and technology partners, maintain accurate records, and support IP documentation and technical presentations.
• Mentor junior researchers and technicians, and ensure lab safety and compliance.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in Textile Engineering, Textile Science, Materials Science, Polymer or Chemical Engineering or a related field.
• Relevant experience in textile research, fabric development, material testing or textile manufacturing.
• Master's degree or specialized research experience in advanced textiles, functional materials or fiber science is advantageous.
• Strong analytical, critical thinking and problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and ability to interpret technical data and write clearly.
• Ability to manage several research projects and meet milestones; pilot production or scale-up experience preferred.

Required skills

• Knowledge of textile fibers, yarn manufacturing, fabric construction, dyeing, finishing and processing techniques.
• Familiarity with textile testing methods and standards such as ISO or AATCC.
• Understanding of statistical analysis, experimental design and research methodology.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and data analysis tools; LIMS or materials testing software is beneficial.
• Experience with tensile testing, abrasion testing, color measurement and microscopy is preferred.

What we offer

• Competitive salary and comprehensive employee benefits.
• Professional development in textile engineering, materials science and research methods.
• Access to laboratory facilities, equipment and material development resources.
• Exposure to advanced fibers, smart textiles, sustainable materials and functional fabrics.