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Textile Research Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Textile Research information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$11.3K

$116.2K

$132.9K

How much do textile research jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for textile research in Chicago, IL is $116,200.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $105,100.00 and $132,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a textile research?

A Textile Research job involves studying, developing, and improving textiles, fabrics, and related materials. Researchers analyze fiber properties, test durability, and explore new manufacturing techniques to enhance performance and sustainability. They may work in industries such as fashion, automotive, healthcare, or defense, developing innovative materials for specific applications. The role often includes laboratory testing, data analysis, and collaboration with engineers and designers to implement advancements.

What are the typical daily responsibilities for someone working in textile research?

In a Textile Research role, your day-to-day responsibilities often include designing and conducting experiments to test fabric properties, analyzing data, and documenting results for use in product development. You may also work closely with product designers, manufacturers, and quality assurance teams to develop or improve textile materials and processes. Collaboration is a key aspect, as you'll often participate in meetings to discuss research findings and recommend solutions that align with production and sustainability goals. Staying updated on industry trends and incorporating new methodologies are also important parts of the job. This dynamic environment offers the chance to contribute directly to innovative products and processes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in textile research, and why are they important?

To thrive in Textile Research, you need a solid background in textile science, materials engineering, and analytical techniques, typically supported by a relevant degree such as textile engineering or material science. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, textile testing instruments, statistical analysis software, and certifications like the American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists (AATCC) can be essential. Strong soft skills include creative problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective collaboration with cross-functional teams. These skills are vital for driving innovation, ensuring product quality, and meeting evolving industry standards.

How to become a textile researcher?

To become a textile researcher, typically a bachelor's degree in textile engineering, materials science, chemistry, or a related field is required. Gaining experience through internships, developing skills in laboratory testing and analysis, and staying updated on textile technologies and industry standards are important steps. Advanced roles may require a master's or doctoral degree and proficiency with research tools and software.

What does a textile researcher do?

A textile researcher studies fabrics, fibers, and materials to develop new textiles or improve existing ones. They analyze properties such as durability, comfort, and performance, often using laboratory equipment and testing methods. Their work supports innovation in industries like fashion, manufacturing, and technical textiles.

What are the most commonly searched types of Textile Research jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Textile Research jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Textile Research jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Textile Research jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Textile Research jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Textile Research jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Textile Research job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $116,200 per year, or $55.9 per hour.

Research and Development Formulation Chemist

Gurtler Industries

South Holland, IL • On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

R&D FORMULATION-DEVELOPMENT CHEMIST OPPORTUNITY!


Gurtler Industries is an ISO certified chemical manufacturer focused on the professional rental-textile industry. We provide service and expertise to the healthcare, industrial, and linen supply markets. If you are interested in resource conservation and results driven outcomes, then we may have an opportunity for you. Being a leader in our market space, a full-time development position has been created within the Research & Development laboratory team.


What You’ll Do:

As a R&D Formulation Development Chemist, this hands-on, first shift position will actively formulate and conduct product performance evaluations of formulated laundry systems, evaluating many facets of textile performance and life cycle including, textile longevity, hygienically clean compliance, enhanced detergency, formulation sustainability and effluent discharge compliance.


Working both as a principal scientist and with other team members, you will interact in the laboratory setting conducting bench formulation, textile-performance testing and microbiology of laundered textiles.


What We’re Looking For:

  • BA/BS in Chemistry or another physical science.
  • 3–10 years of hands-on R&D formulation-development experience developing or reformulating chemical products.
  • Hands-on experience working with surfactants and other formulation raw materials.
  • Experience with industrial cleaning, laundry, detergent, sanitation, water-treatment, or other specialty chemical formulations is strongly preferred.
  • Experience evaluating and troubleshooting product performance and optimizing formulations based on laboratory results.
  • Experience taking formulations from bench development through scale-up or commercial production is preferred.
  • Computer aptitude.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively across management and customer levels.
  • Previous experience with ISO/cGMP programs is beneficial.
  • Approximately 10% travel.


Military veterans are encouraged to apply.


What You’ll Receive:

  • $50,000 – $70,000 per year Depending on experience
  • Full benefits (Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Short Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance)
  • Paid holidays and vacation
  • Matching 401k
  • Employee Discounts
  • Employee Referral Program
  • Opportunities to Advance


Bring your formulation expertise to Gurtler Industries and help shape the next generation of professional laundry chemistry. Apply today!