Technician - Fashion and Textiles (33.5 hours p/w)
To facilitate the learning process by supporting staff and students in an effective learning environment. Deliver technical assistance for both internal and external use of all Media and Graphics classrooms, workshops and studio. To support the growth and quality of provision of the Media and Games provisions and client engagement.
- To provide direct support to teaching staff by maintaining and promoting a creative, industry-relevant working environment within fashion and textiles workshops and studios.
- To ensure staff and students have appropriate access to classrooms, workshops, studios and specialist equipment as required.
- To liaise proactively with IT Services and relevant support teams to resolve technical issues and ensure the smooth running of practical sessions, exhibitions and events.
- To manage, organise and store coursework evidence, including sketchbooks, design portfolios and digital submissions.
- To prepare and support practical activities by setting up materials, tools and equipment (e.g. sewing machines, pattern cutting tools, textiles resources), ensuring readiness before sessions and proper storage afterwards.
- To assist in practical group activities, supervise the safe use of specialist equipment (e.g. industrial sewing machines, pressing equipment), and undertake workshop setup prior to sessions.
- To support internal and external use of fashion and textiles studios, workshops and exhibition spaces.
- To undertake out-of-hours support for fashion shows, exhibitions, photoshoots and events as reasonably requested by management.
- To maintain responsibility for the safe handling, maintenance and security of all equipment, materials and student work both on and off site.
- To support the creation of visual content (e.g. photography of garments, portfolios, displays) for college marketing, social media and student showcases.
- To assist with the supervision of students undertaking practical project work, industry briefs, enrichment activities, visits and competitions.
- To research and introduce new techniques, materials, and technologies within fashion and textiles (e.g. sustainable practices, digital design tools), supporting staff development and curriculum innovation.
- To demonstrate flexibility in supporting departmental needs and contributing to wider cross-college activities.
- To manage stock control, ordering of materials (fabric, threads, trims, consumables) and maintaining an organised workshop environment.
- To monitor and maintain relevant software and equipment where applicable (e.g. CAD for fashion, digital textile design tools), ensuring updates and usability.
- To support digital systems used for collaboration and submission of work (e.g. Teams, online portfolios), ensuring efficient workflows for staff and students.
- To manage access to specialist resources, equipment booking systems and workshop usage.
- To support industry engagement by building links with fashion designers, textile artists, manufacturers and creative businesses to enhance work experience and live project opportunities for students.
- To undertake any other duties of a similar level of responsibility as required by management.
Qualifications
Essential Criteria
- GCSE English & Math’s
- Degree in a related subject area (Fashion, Textiles)
- Evidence of ongoing professional development in relevant technical area
- Knowledge of screen printing and weaving
How Identified: Application
Desirable Criteria
- Teaching Qualification or willingness to work towards
- Health and safety training (e.g. manual handling, COSHH awareness, risk assessment training).
How Identified: Application/Interview/Practical Assessment
Experience
Essential Criteria
- Minimum 3 years related industry or Further Education experience – specifically running
- Fashion and Textiles environments, fashion print and pattern cutting
- Solid background/knowledge of related creative arts disciplines
- Technical knowledge within the study programme area as defined by the course specification
- Basic level in Microsoft applications, particularly Word and Excel.
How Identified: Application/Interview
Desirable Criteria
- Experience in the use of Marvellous Designer and Tufting
- Networking, Branding and Marketing experience
How Identified: Application/Interview/Practical Assessment
Other requirements
- Willingness to undertake further training
- Ability to work occasional evenings/weekends for events
- Commitment to inclusive practice and learner success
How Identified: Application/Interview/Practical Assessment