How to Become a Knitting Machine Technician

Knitting machine technicians are responsible for repairing and sometimes running today's complex and computerized knitting machines. Since a knitting machine is really just a big computer programmed to produce a type, quality and particular size of fabric, a machine technician should have a background in electronics and experience in repairing computers.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Associate degree in a textile or computer repair field

Become a Knitting Machine Technician

1. Test drive the occupation while you are still in high school by getting a summer job in a textile mill. See if you enjoy the work and the working conditions. The mills are noisy and you will be working indoors all day, so you may find that it is not the working environment for you.

2. Try to find an apprenticeship program in electronics and computer repair after you graduate from high school. Most state governments sponsor these programs in conjunction with private industry.

3. Obtain employment as a knitting machinist. Spend several years running and learning everything there is to know about the machinery and then apply for a technician position. Most employers like to promote from within.

4. Acquire a basic knowledge of sewing. Anyone who wants to become a knitting machine technician or work in the textile industry should know sewing 101.

5. Earn an Associate degree or a certificate from an accredited technical college or university that offers training in textile technology and computer repair.

6. Take advantage of your school placement office when you are looking for a job. Many high schools and most vocational schools have placement counselors who can help you find an entry-level or apprenticeship position.

Tips & Warnings

• Although many textile jobs have been outsourced to foreign countries, job applicants with technical skills and computer training still have the best success rates in finding jobs in this industry.
• Some mills hire technicians to fulfill the dual role of running and repairing the machines, so be sure to inquire as to your exact duties before taking on any position.
• If you become a knitting machine operator be sure to wear protective clothing. This includes ear protection (the machines are loud), gloves and safety shoes.
• If you don't want to go to school very long, realize that you may have a harder, longer work road ahead of you. Technicians hired without a degree from a 2-year college or vocational school are usually those who started as knitting machinists and worked their way up to technicians.

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