Tailor Technician

Overview

Role Overview

Key Responsibilities

• Pattern Making & Cutting: Develop and cut patterns for upholstery covers, drapes, soft props, and custom textile elements from technical drawings and design briefs.
• Machine & Hand Sewing: Operate industrial sewing machines (flatbed, overlock, heavy-duty) for production sewing; apply hand-finishing techniques where required.
• Upholstery: Fabricate and fit fabric covers, padding, and foam upholstery for custom event furniture and seating.
• Fabric Knowledge: Select appropriate fabric types (stretch, structural, sheer, heavy-duty) based on application requirements and client specifications.
• Custom Soft Props: Construct fabric-based props, costumes, and decorative textile elements according to design references.
• Alterations & Repairs: Modify and repair existing textile assets from the company's inventory as required.
• Sample & Prototype Making: Produce fabric samples and prototypes for client sign-off prior to full production.
• Textile Inventory: Track and manage fabric stocks, trimmings, threads, and notions; flag replenishment needs.
• Collaboration: Liaise with designers, carpenters, and project managers to ensure textile elements integrate correctly with structural components

Required Qualifications & Skills

• Minimum 5+ years of experience as a tailor or textile technician, preferably in events, theatre, film, or custom furniture/soft furnishings.
• High proficiency with industrial sewing machines (flatbed, overlock, walking foot) and hand sewing.
• Strong pattern-making and garment/upholstery construction skills.
• Broad knowledge of fabric types, properties, and appropriate applications.
• Experience with upholstery fabrication including foam, batting, and webbing.
• Ability to interpret design drawings, mood boards, and fabric specifications.
• Precision and attention to detail in seam finishing and quality of construction.
• Ability to work under tight production timelines without compromising quality.

Typical Working Conditions

• Environment: Must be able to work in a workshop environment, which may include loud noise, dust, and heat, with some on-site installation work.
• Hours: May require working evenings, weekends, and holidays to meet event deadlines.
• Physical Requirements: Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle tight deadlines and to work on site, which may include lifting, standing for long periods, and working in varied conditions.