Costume Shop Manager

Responsibilities 1. Develop costume construction plans for the mainstage season, working closely with the Artistic Director, Costume Designer, Director, Choreographer, and production teams for a large Theatre & Dance production program of approximately eight shows; lead the construction of costumes to ensure they accurately reflect the designer’s and director’s intentions, are safe, effective, and completed within budget and deadlines. 2. Hire, train, supervise, and evaluate up to ten student employees in the costume shop; supervise 40–50 students per semester who work in the shop and on wardrobe crews as part of laboratory requirements for technical theatre classes; coach safe use of equipment and professional construction techniques; act as foreperson, head cutter, and stitcher; ensure shop safety and security. 3. Meet with costume design faculty to determine optimal solutions for executing designs; authorize and initiate procurement of shop equipment and supplies; prepare and manage show budgets for costumes, ensuring budgets are not exceeded and can be reported in spreadsheet format. 4. Provide technical support related to costumes for the department; maintain equipment and supplies for use in class and productions; manage inventory of wardrobe stock and ensure its condition; establish a system for reliable checkout and return of costumes for student and guest productions. 5. Attend design and production meetings, dress and technical rehearsals as needed; during summer, execute shop cleaning, restocking, and equipment maintenance; develop construction, staffing, and budgeting plans for the next academic year. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Theatre with a focus on costumes and/or a professional theatre experience; minimum three years of relevant experience required, with significant supervisory experience preferred; equivalent combinations of experience and education are encouraged. Knowledge of performing arts and advanced sewing skills in costume construction; ability to determine fiscal needs, evaluate projects, and propose solutions for costume aspects of the department’s production program; familiarity with professional theatre costume shop protocols. Proficiency in costume crafts, makeup, wardrobe, patterning, and period construction techniques. Excellent organizational, communication, and supervisory skills, capable of fostering a positive, collaborative work environment for faculty, students, and production directors. Strong ability to maintain schedules and budgets, and to use computer applications for spreadsheets and budget accountability. Physical ability to lift/carry boxes and equipment used in a standard costume shop; some evening and weekend work required. #J-18808-Ljbffr