Fabric Technical Developer (Intimate-wear)

Our client is a global leader in intimate apparel and swimwear manufacturing, recognized for supplying top-tier international brands. They are seeking a high-caliber Fabric Technical Developer to join their team in Hong Kong.

This role serves as a key technical expert across material performance, quality assurance, and production feasibility. You will bridge the technical requirements between raw material suppliers, internal development teams, and global brand partners, ensuring smooth execution from concept to final bulk delivery.

Core Responsibilities

1. Technical Feasibility & Material Assessment

Evaluate fabric performance, weight, stretch, and recovery characteristics to ensure alignment with garment functionality for intimate and elastic apparel.

Review physical and chemical test results against international test methods and buyer standards.

Anticipate technical risks early (such as shrinkage, color consistency, cup molding behavior, or skewness) and drive proactive solutions prior to mass production.

Advise on alternative material options to optimize cost and production lead time while preserving product aesthetics and quality.

2. Quality Assurance & Risk Mitigation

Establish comprehensive technical specifications and quality tolerance guidelines for bulk production.

Lead pre-production risk assessments (Pre-bulk Analysis) to prevent downstream manufacturing issues during cutting, sewing, and molding.

Investigate non-conformance issues and material defect claims; drive Root Cause Analysis (RCA) and enforce corrective action plans with fabric mills.

Maintain consistency with global textile testing standards (ISO, AATCC, ASTM).

3. Mill & Supplier Engagement

Partner closely with regional fabric mills, dye houses, and finishing facilities to ensure technical compliance and continuous improvement.

Support mill evaluation and auditing processes regarding technical execution and quality control capabilities.

Monitor supplier compliance with eco-certifications and chemical regulations (e.g., OEKO-TEX, GRS, REACH).

4. Stakeholder & Client Collaboration

Act as the main technical contact with overseas brand clients' fabric and technical teams to secure material approvals.

Collaborate with internal Merchandising, Product Development, Garment Technologists, and Factory QA teams to resolve technical challenges on the production floor.

Key Qualifications

Education: Degree or Higher Diploma in Textile Technology, Textile Engineering, Clothing Science, or a related discipline.

Experience: 5-8 years of relevant experience in fabric technology, textile testing, or QA within apparel manufacturing. Experience in synthetic knits, stretch/spandex fabrics, lingerie, swimwear, or activewear is strongly preferred.

Technical Expertise:

Solid knowledge of knitting, dyeing, finishing, and molding techniques for high-stretch fabrics.

Familiarity with global textile testing standards (ISO, AATCC, ASTM, OEKO-TEX).

Competencies: Strong analytical mind, sharp problem-solving skills, and a proactive, collaborative approach.

Languages: Excellent command of English, Cantonese, and Mandarin.

Travel: Periodic travel to regional mills and production sites as required.