At a Glance
- Tasks: Support fabric development from concept to production, ensuring quality and sustainability.
- Company: Join Varley, a contemporary fashion brand empowering women with stylish, functional collections.
- Benefits: Enjoy 50% off employee purchases, healthcare after 2 years, and 25 days holiday.
- Other info: Dynamic, inclusive environment with opportunities for growth and innovation.
- Why this job: Be part of a female-led team making a real impact in the fashion industry.
- Qualifications: Passion for textiles, strong analytical skills, and excellent communication abilities required.
The predicted salary is between 22050 - 26950 £ per year.
About Varley Clothing
Varley is a contemporary fashion brand for the modern woman. Founded in 2015 by husband-and-wife Lara and Ben Mead, we are an international, family-run business headquartered between London, Los Angeles, and New York. We create year-round collections designed to build an elevated wardrobe for how women live and move. From knitwear and outerwear to everyday staples and active pieces, our collections blend style, function, and versatility. Varley exists to instil quiet confidence through meaningful connections that enhance everything women already are. As women’s lives evolve, so do we. Our international family-run team is 85% female, making us proud to be a brand for women, by women. We are guided by two core beliefs: the pursuit of quality in everything we do and looking after one another.
Job Description
As an Assistant Fabric Technologist, you will support the end-to-end fabric development process, working closely with Design, Product Development, Production and Supply Chain teams to ensure fabrics meet Varley's quality, performance, sustainability and compliance standards. You will play a key role in managing fabric testing, certification and sustainability data, supporting seasonal reporting requirements and helping to ensure products are developed and delivered to the highest standards. This role requires a highly organised and detail-oriented individual with a passion for textiles, strong analytical skills and a proactive approach to problem-solving. This role is based full-time at our Chesterfield office.
Responsibilities
- Support the fabric development process from concept through to bulk production.
- Understand and champion Varley quality standards and seek opportunities to further elevate and refine our products.
- Request, track and maintain fabric test reports from suppliers and third-party laboratories.
- Monitor testing progress and proactively follow up on outstanding submissions.
- Review and validate test reports to ensure fabrics meet internal standards and all relevant regulations.
- Assist in assessing fabric performance, quality and suitability for intended end use.
- Request and collect sustainability and compliance certificates, ensuring records are kept up to date and easily accessible.
- Collate seasonal reports for Fairly Made, BCI, and other sustainability initiatives.
- Maintain component databases, trackers and filing systems.
Experience and Skills
- Strong understanding of textile fibres, fabric construction and performance characteristics.
- Excellent communication and relationship-building skills, able to collaborate effectively with other teams and external partners.
- Highly organised and detail-oriented, able to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
- Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a team.
- A genuine interest in fabric innovation, sustainability and product quality.
Employee Benefits
- Employee Purchase Scheme with 50% off for employees.
- Friend and Family Purchase Scheme with 20% off.
- Access to Bupa Health care after 2 years.
- 25 Days Holiday.
Our People
We think of ourselves as an international family-run business that embodies our founders’ commitment to creating timeless collections for the modern woman. What started as a company of two has grown into a close-knit team of thinkers, creators, and innovators, taking care of our clothes, each other, and our community. Split across the UK and USA, our team is 85% female, making us proud to be a brand for women, by women. We are guided by two core beliefs: the pursuit of quality in everything we do and looking after one another.
Company Values
- We are the sum of many parts.
- The journey is just as important as the destination.
- We look after one another.
- We promote diversity and inclusivity as central parts of the culture we are building.
- We pursue quality in everything we do.
- We grow together.
- We embrace possibility and push boundaries.
- Data-driven decisions and purposeful actions.
- Our brand is timeless and valuable.
- We choose partners who reflect our values.
- We grow our brand by empowering others.
- Responsibility is at the core of everything we do.
- Kindness is our guiding principle.
Assistant Fabric Technologist - Chesterfield employer: Varley
Varley is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and supportive work culture, where creativity and innovation thrive. As a family-run business, we prioritise the well-being of our team, offering opportunities for professional growth and development in the dynamic fashion industry. Located between London, Los Angeles, and New York, our international presence allows for a diverse and enriching experience, making Varley a rewarding place to contribute your expertise in contemporary fashion.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Fabric Technologist - Chesterfield
✨Get Down to the Fashion Events
Dive headfirst into local fashion shows, trade fairs, and networking events. These are golden opportunities to meet industry pros and showcase your passion for the industry in person. Plus, it gives you the chance to chat about potential roles at places like Varley!
✨Join Fashion-Focused Communities
Become a part of online fashion communities on platforms like Instagram or Pinterest. Participate in discussions and share your insights on trends or your personal style journey. It’s a great way to get noticed by brands looking to fill positions, including Varley.
✨Craft a Rock-Solid Portfolio
Since you're aiming for a full-time gig, your portfolio should reflect not just your best work but also your personality. Whether it’s lookbooks, design sketches, or styling projects, make sure it screams 'you' and includes a bit about why you’d be a perfect fit for Varley.
✨Leverage Your University Connections
If you’re fresh out of university, don’t underestimate your career services. They often have partnerships with fashion companies for internships and entry-level roles. Use this to your advantage and connect with them to find any openings at Varley!
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Fabric Technologist - Chesterfield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Style:In the fashion-apparel industry, your personal style and understanding of current trends are crucial. Make sure your CV and cover letter reflect your unique fashion sense – use visuals if you can and highlight any fashion-related experiences or projects that show off your flair!
Highlight Relevant Experience:When you're applying for a full-time role, be sure to focus on any past roles or internships in fashion that’ve honed your skills. Whether that's working in retail, fashion design, or marketing, quantify your achievements and show how they relate to the role at Varley.
Include a Strong Portfolio:An impressive portfolio is key in fashion! Make sure to include a link to your online portfolio in your CV, showcasing your best work, be it designs, campaigns, or styling projects. This is your chance to let your creativity shine and demonstrate your abilities to Varley!
Craft a Standout Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to weave in your passion for fashion and the specific reasons you want to work at Varley. Share your vision of how you'd contribute to their brand and why you're excited about their work. Tailoring this will make you stand out from the crowd!
How to prepare for a job interview at Varley
✨Showcase Your Style Portfolio
For a role in the fashion-apparel industry, having a well-curated portfolio is essential. Ensure you include your best work that reflects your style and creativity, whether it's sketches, lookbooks, or completed designs. Be ready to discuss your design process and the inspirations behind your pieces!
✨Know the Latest Trends and Brands
Being well-versed in current fashion trends and influential brands can give you a leg up in the interview. Get familiar with what’s trending in the market and know your competitors. This shows your passion for the industry and helps you connect your work experience to current fashion trajectories.
✨Demonstrate Your Collaboration Skills
In a full-time fashion role, collaboration is key, whether you’re working with designers, marketers, or suppliers. Be prepared to share experiences where you successfully worked as part of a team or navigated challenges with colleagues. This will highlight your ability to adapt and thrive in a fast-paced environment.
✨Dress the Part
This might sound obvious, but in fashion, how you present yourself is part of your brand. Wear something that represents your personal style while still aligning with the company’s aesthetic. It’s a great way to show you understand the industry's essence and can embody the brand’s image!
