The industry has the following occupational profile:

• over 50% of the workforce are in operative occupations represent the largest group in the industry
• craft workers contribute around one seventh of total employment
• 1 in 20 are managers
• 1 in 20 are engaged in higher level technical roles

The key job roles within operative occupations include sewing machinists, linkers and miscellaneous machine operatives and shop floor workers. 

Source: Skills Needs Assessment – knitting, lace and narrow fabrics 2005a

For information on occupational employment numbers and examples of key jobs see:

Occupational profile of the knitting, lace and narrow fabrics workforce, 2005