Textile dyeing technician

You could do a higher national diploma or degree in:

• chemical engineering
• textile technology
• chemistry

You could also take a course in fashion and textiles if it covers manufacturing processes.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• between 1 and 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a higher national diploma or degree

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements
• student finance for fees and living costs
• university courses and entry requirements

You could do a college course, which may help you to get a job as a trainee dyeing technician. Courses include:

• Level 3 Diploma In Textile Design and Manufacture
• A level Chemistry
• Level 3 Diploma in Applied Science

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements
• funding advice
• search for courses

You could apply for a technical dyer and colourist, or textile technical specialist, higher apprenticeship.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements
• guide to apprenticeships

You could train with the Society of Dyers and Colourists, who offer courses from introductory level to advanced. You'll usually need to be working in textiles production or research to do the more advanced courses.

Further information

You can find out more about working in textiles technology from the Society of Dyers and Colourists and The Textile Institute.

You'll need:

• knowledge of chemistry including the safe use and disposal of chemicals
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• knowledge of manufacturing production and processes
• observation and recording skills
• the ability to work well with others
• the ability to operate and control equipment
• excellent verbal communication skills
• knowledge of maths
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Your day-to-day duties may include:

• developing chemical 'recipes' to produce different colours and dyes
• working out the correct temperatures to suit different dyeing methods
• testing sample dyes
• mixing batches of dye for use in textiles manufacturing
• recommending special finishes or treatments
• keeping records of the dye development process and its results

You could work in a workshop or in a laboratory.

You may need to wear safety clothing and use safety equipment.