Sr. Fabric Technologist (Knit Fabric)

Context: The Manager – Fabric Technologist is responsible for overseeing fabric development, quality assurance, and performance optimization for knit garments. This role ensures that all fabrics meet required standards, buyer specifications, and production feasibility while maintaining cost efficiency and innovation. This position should have Strong knowledge of yarn, knitting process, dyeing process, knit fabric structures and behavior (Shed, Shrinkage, GSM+ -), Overall fabric quality. Job Responsibilities:• Lead development of knit fabrics (Single Jersey, Rib, Interlock, Fleece, Pique, etc.) • Coordinate with mills and suppliers for new fabric innovation and sampling • Evaluate yarn types, GSM, blends, and finishing processes • Ensure fabric meets buyer requirements (hand feel, shrinkage, colorfastness, etc.) • Approve fabric quality for bulk production • Analyze lab test reports (shrinkage, pilling, colorfastness, spirally, etc.) • Identify risks and suggest corrective actions before bulk production • Work closely with production, merchandising, and quality teams • Troubleshoot fabric-related issues during cutting, sewing, and finishing • Monitor fabric consumption, wastage, and marker efficiency • Ensure fabric meets international standards (ISO, buyer protocols) • Conduct factory audits and supplier evaluations • Maintain consistency in bulk vs sample fabric quality • Support merchandising team with fabric costing and consumption • Suggest cost-effective alternatives without compromising quality • Optimize fabric usage and minimize rejection/wastage • Introduce sustainable and functional fabrics (organic cotton, recycled fibers, performance fabrics) • Keep updated with global trends in knit textiles • Develop new finishes (enzyme wash, silicone wash, moisture-wicking, etc.) • Coordinate cross-functional teams