Jewellery and Hair Technology

at  QHQ

We are looking for a part time Senior Technologist (Hair & Jewellery) to work within the Technical Services team of a leading Retailer.

QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS:

• Bachelor’s degree in jewellery design , or a related field is preferred.
• Proven experience as a Technologist / Senior Technologist or in a similar role.
• Strong knowledge of product construction techniques including casting, plating, assembly methods, hallmarking as well as quality and safety standards across all jewellery and hair product areas (ladies and kids)
• Excellent attention to detail and the ability to identify and resolve quality issues.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate with internal and external stakeholders.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and meet deadlines.
• Knowledge of industry regulations, certifications, and sustainability practices.
• Interest in learning about other product areas within the brand with a view to covering either as an additional category or to cover absences and holidays.
• Enthusiasm for product and an ability to get on with a wide range of people and to build great working relationships in a great working team!

WHAT WILL YOU DO AS A JEWELLERY AND HAIR TECHNOLOGIST?

• Build close working relationships with category teams (buying and design) to deliver product strategy, including sustainability targets
• Support Buying from initial prototype to production sign off (including critical path adherence and management), working with buying and design teams to ensure quality and safety are ‘designed in’ to product. Risk assess products at initial development stage to ensure that they are feasible, safe and legally compliant.
• Work with suppliers to achieve the most cost-effective production methods to deliver the required quality standards.
• Ensure all product testing is effectively managed and maintained; that quality processes are properly followed to ensure compliance with relevant regulations.
• Liaise closely with the India and China QA teams to ensure effective tracking of all product testing and to utilise their experience and knowledge of suppliers to better understand the capabilities of supply base.
• Review returns data and customer feedback to ensure product is aligned to fulfil customer expectations and drive improvements where required.
• Liaise with the Distribution Centre QC Department on any queries relating to quality inspections and follow through with buying teams and suppliers.
• Have an understanding of the technical capability of suppliers, including factory visits and audits (including the developing of CAP’s).
• Liaise with overseas offices to follow up on factory visits and audits and support the offices to ensure these are actioned in a timely manner.
• Work with the Ethical Trading manager to follow up on SMETA reports and factory audits. Carry out ethical risk assessment, based on H & S issues during factory visits where appropriate.
• Work with the Technical Manager as and when there are upcoming changes to legislation, to ensure that buying, design and suppliers are made aware in good time.
• Carry out regular visits to stores to see ranges and get feedback on any issues they are having with product.
• Regular analysis of returns reports to identify issues in a timely fashion and to drive improvement.
• Manage the Due Diligence testing program for jewellery and hair products
• A working knowledge of international requirements would be advantageous.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Quality Assurance: Conduct thorough evaluations of product to ensure they meet quality, safety and legal requirements. Ensure they align with construction requirements.
Product Evaluation: Work with Buying on product development at conception stage to ‘design in’ quality at an early stage and ensure supplier is aware of all testing and certification requirements.
Technical Specifications: Collaborate with buying and design to ensure technical specifications are kept up to date, including measurement charts, construction methods and material requirements.
Compliance and Regulations: Ensure products meet all applicable regulations, certifications as well as testing and labelling requirements. Stay up to date with industry regulations, safety standards, and legal requirements related to the category. Liaise with international partners to ensure we comply with requirements for all the markets we currently supply.
Collaboration and Communication: Work closely with cross-functional teams, including designers, buyers, ethical trading and overseas offices in India and China to ensure smooth communication, resolve technical challenges, and align on product requirements.
Continuous Improvement: Stay informed about emerging technologies, industry trends, and manufacturing techniques. Identify opportunities for process improvement, cost optimisation, and innovation within the jewellery development and production process.