Textile Technology Lead, Material Return

Textile Technology Lead

Reports To:

Material Return Production Lead Department/

Location:

Material Return Job Type: Full-Time, Salaried Exempt About The Industrial Commons:
The Industrial Commons is an economic ecosystem located in Morganton, NC with reach across the state and region. Our mission is to found and grow interconnected enterprises that solve problems for businesses and workers, while rebuilding a diverse working class, based on locally rooted wealth. We address the root causes of generational poverty by supporting frontline workers in building an economy for all.

TIC is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. Job Overview:
The Textile Technology Lead is responsible for learning and supporting all aspects of yarn manufacturing, textile production, quality assurance, and operational processes. This position participates in a structured development program designed to build technical knowledge and practical experience in fiber preparation, carding, yarn production, product development, production planning, quality testing, equipment maintenance, and team leadership. The Textile Technology Lead works closely with production, quality, maintenance, and leadership teams to gain hands-on experience operating and troubleshooting manufacturing equipment, analyzing production data, supporting research and development initiatives, and identifying opportunities for process improvement.

This role also assists with production scheduling, quality control activities, safety compliance, and operational reporting while developing the skills necessary to assume increasing levels of responsibility within the organization. Essential Responsibilities and Functions:
● Participate in a structured development program focused on yarn manufacturing, textile technology, product development, and production operations.
● Develop proficiency in fiber opening, blending, carding, yarn production, and related manufacturing processes to ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality operations.
● Operate, troubleshoot, and optimize production equipment while identifying opportunities for process improvements and increased productivity.
● Perform laboratory and production testing on raw materials, in-process products, and finished goods to ensure compliance with quality standards and customer specifications.
● Assist with the development, testing, and evaluation of new products, R&D samples, and production trials; analyze results and recommend improvements to support commercialization efforts.
● Create and coordinate production schedules, monitor performance, and collaborate with operations, quality, and maintenance teams to meet production goals and maintain efficient workflow.
● Support preventive maintenance programs by identifying equipment issues, coordinating repairs, and promoting equipment reliability and operational efficiency.
● Provide guidance, training, coaching, and performance feedback to production team members while fostering a safe, productive, and collaborative work environment.
● Ensure compliance with all safety, quality, environmental, and operational policies, procedures, and standards.
● Maintain accurate production, quality, maintenance, testing, and inventory records using company systems and reporting tools.
● Lead or participate in continuous improvement initiatives focused on process optimization, waste reduction, quality enhancement, and operational efficiency.
● Demonstrate leadership potential by assuming increasing responsibility in technical, operational, and team leadership functions, preparing for advancement into technical specialist, production management, or textile technology leadership roles.
● Other duties as assigned Preferred Knowledge,

Skills and Experience:

● Coursework, certifications, or hands-on experience in textile technology, engineering, manufacturing, mechatronics, industrial…