Career outlook for
Figures and forecasts for roles at the same level, which require similar skills and qualifications.
Average UK salary
Currently employed in Scotland
Jobs forecast
This information is supplied by LMI For All, where data is currently available for Scotland.
What's it like?
You would mix chemicals to make dyes to colour fibres, yarns and fabrics.
You would:
- Decide which chemical dye formula would create the right colour
- Work out the right dyeing method and temperature for the fabric
- Make up a sample dye and check to make sure it produces the right results
- Produce a final formula for use in the manufacturing process
- Recommend any special finishes or treatments to be applied after the dyeing process
- Keep a record of the dye's chemical mix so that you could use it again to get the same results
- Use your records to check the process if a problem occurs after a fabric has left the factory
Your work could be highly technical. You would often use computer-controlled tools to mix dyes.
Working conditions
Hours
Environment
UK employment status
Full-time
Part-time
Self employed
Create a qualification route
We’ve found some examples of the qualifications that could help you get this job.
Discover my routeTop skills
Here are some of the skills that people in this job would be most likely to have:
- Communicating with people
- Working as part of a team
- Working on your own
- Accuracy
- Working with your hands
- Using computers
- Finding solutions to problems
- Paying attention to detail
Build your skills
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Entry requirements for courses can change. Always contact the college, university or training provider to check exactly what you’ll need.
Qualifications
You would usually need a high level of scientific knowledge to work as a textile dyeing technician.
Employers may ask for either a degree (SCQF level 9/10), a Higher National Certificate (SCQF level 7) or Higher National Diploma (SCQF level 8) in subjects like chemistry, chemical engineering, colour science or physics.
You may also be able to take a work-based qualification such as a Modern Apprenticeship leading to a relevant Scottish Vocational Qualifications in Manufacturing Textile Products (SVQ level 2/3).
You can enter some National Certificate or National Qualification courses (SCQF levels 2-6) with no formal qualifications but most courses ask for National 4/5 qualifications (SCQF level 4/5).
You can enter Higher National Certificate (SCQF level 7) or Higher National Diploma courses (SCQF level 8) with National 4/5 qualifications and 1 to 2 Highers or equivalent qualifications.
Entry to a degree (SCQF level 9/10) usually requires National 5 qualifications and a minimum of three Highers or a relevant HNC/HND.
To enter a postgraduate course (SCQF level 11) you will usually require an honours degree in a relevant subject.
Useful subjects
- Maths (required by many courses and employers)
- Science subjects, in particular chemistry (required by many courses and employers)
- English
- Technologies subjects such as fashion and textile technology
Helpful to have
Once on the job you can do courses run by the Society of Dyers and Colourists (SDC).
Related industries
