Costume Cutter

Department: SoC Wirtz Center for Perf Arts

Salary/Grade: NEX/12

Costume Cutter is responsible for the pattern drafting, fabric cutting, construction, alterations and fittings of costumes and costume pieces used in all productions. This position works in conjunction with the Costume Shop Manager and stitchers. They supervise student workers, partner with other staff on textile projects, and aid in maintaining the costume shop, its facilities and equipment.

Production Preparation:

• Read scripts in order to have knowledge of the needs of each production and to be able to provide input to the creative process with directors, designers, faculty and other staff members. Attend all necessary design presentations, staff meetings, production meetings, and preparation sessions.

Design & Construction Process:

• Work with graduate student and visiting designers, faculty design mentors, stitchers and Costume Shop Supervisor to establish priorities and provide expertise to create patterns, construct and/or alter all costume pieces and accessories for each production within budgetary and time constraints. Work with staff stitchers to ensure that costume elements are executed with high level of craftsmanship and efficiency. Attend fittings as scheduled/needed.

Supervision/Managerial:

• In conjunction with the Costume Shop Manager and stitchers, organize and manage the work of Graduate Assistants, work‑study students, and undergraduate crews in costume production and check work progress with the intention of meeting production deadlines. Instruct and supervise graduate and undergraduate students in the proper use of all costume shop equipment and procedures. Provide input regarding workflow, need for temporary employees, and improvements in the production process, equipment, and facilities.

Facilities/Equipment:

• In conjunction with the stitchers, assist the Costume Shop Manager in maintaining and improving the areas of the physical plant directly related to costumes such as the shop, storage space, dressing and makeup rooms and laundry facilities. Will manage projects if deemed necessary.

Rehearsals & Performances:

• If necessary, attend work calls above regular daily schedule (technical and dress rehearsals, crew trainings) and in coordination with other staff members. Assist in the restoration of all costumes after a production closes. This includes dry cleaning, shipping, and restocking.

Other

• Coordinate costume needs and procedures with house technician or representative when performances take place outside of the Center.
• Serve as costume liaison with outside groups using Center facilities.
• Execute non‑production‑related Wirtz/University costume projects as time allows in cooperation with other staff members.
• Attend training sessions in CPR annually and First Aid as required.
• Provide insight for annual reviews and update of this job description.

Performs other duties as assigned.

• Undergraduate Degree or commensurate experience in theatrical costuming or design or its equivalent in a related discipline and a minimum of three years professional experience.

• Costume pattern making, alteration, construction skills, garment/fabric cutting and associated skills.
• A general knowledge of theatre, theatre production and costume design process.
• Skills in using home, commercial, and blind‑hem sewing machines.
• Supervisory experience.
• Exemplary work habits and the desire to teach them to others.
• Ability to establish and maintain productive and collaborative working relationships with faculty, staff, and students.
• Ability to organize and establish priorities for the work of others. Ability to manage and lead other artists.

• A minimum of five years professional experience.
• Experience working in an educational or academic setting.

• Advanced knowledge of costume construction, costume design process and its related techniques.
• Teaching or mentoring skills

Target hiring range for this position will be between $X23.00-$29.00 per hour. Offered salary will be determined by the applicant's education, experience, knowledge,…