Costume Shop Manager

Job Summary:

Combines creative ingenuity and creativity with a technical knowledge of and practical experience in costume design, construction, maintenance, and a knowledge of historical period designs in the construction, modification, alteration, and maintenance of appropriate costumes for use in locally produced plays. Provides supervision and instruction to THTR 200 students working on costumes.

Duties/Responsibilities:

This job description is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties or responsibility requirements. Employees may be required to perform other job-related instructions as requested by the supervisor, subject to reasonable accommodation

• Works with the designer to create costumes based on sketches as provided. Stitches cloth into finished garments; performs a variety of hand and machine stitches. Cuts and prepares various costume patterns for fitting.
• Shops and sources costume materials (both local and online).
• Cuts cloth from patterns and constructs the cut cloth into fitted costumes; fits patterns and cloth to actors and dancers.
• Performs both hand and machine finishing to costumes, as appropriate.
• Assists with costume enhancements, modifications, and alterations, as necessary.
• Ensures proper care in the use and maintenance of equipment and the inventory of equipment and supplies.
• May be required to direct the routine maintenance of equipment and the inventory of equipment and supplies.
• May coordinate with the Theatre Director and supervise subordinate positions in the construction of costumes.
• Provides oversight, supervision and instruction to students enrolled in Practicum, works closely with instructor of record on evaluating student work.
• Keeps close track of expenditures and costume budget.
• Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

Required Skills/Abilities:

To perform this job successfully an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. All job requirements listed indicate the minimum knowledge, skills, and/or ability deemed necessary to perform the job proficiently. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Ability to safely and efficiently utilize costume construction equipment and facilities.
• Knowledge of clothing and costume construction techniques and procedures.
• General knowledge of historical period costume designs and patterns and the methods, materials and equipment utilized in the construction and reconstruction of costumes and related accessories.
• Ability to operate both domestic and industrial sewing machines and sergers.
• Knowledge of professional drapery, first hand, and stitching.
• Ability to perform costume modifications and alterations.
• Ability to understand, follow, and enforce safety procedures.
• Ability to lead and functionally supervise staff.
• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with students, faculty, and staff.

Education and Experience

• High school diploma and at least one year of experience working for a theatre, repertory, or stock company constructing costumes for stage productions; and one year training in costume design and construction; or an equivalent combination of training and experience.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

Supervises all student workers. Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization's policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring, and training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems.

Physical Requirements:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to sit. The employee is occasionally required to stand and walk; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, or crouch. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 40 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and distance vision, and the ability to distinguish colors. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

WORKING AT DU HAS ITS BENEFITS:

• Free tuition for your whole family
• Free tickets to Drury home sporting events
• Wellness benefits at extremely competitive rates
• Free use of onsite fitness center on Springfield campus
• Discounted meals and Drury merchandise on campus