Costume Shop Manager

Position Purpose

Reporting to the Production Manager, and in alignment with the Costume Design Faculty, the Costume Shop Manager oversees all costume‑related operations for productions presented or supported by the Department of Theater, including mainstage productions, approved student productions, and departmental thesis and honors projects. The role manages costume construction, fittings, rentals, wardrobe operations, and costume maintenance, while ensuring effective shop operations, safe practices, and high‑quality production support.

The Costume Shop Manager provides technical guidance and supervised experiential learning opportunities for students engaged in production work, supporting the successful execution of departmental productions in alignment with artistic and operational goals.

• Oversee costume‑related operations for departmental productions, including costume construction, rentals, fittings, wardrobe coordination, maintenance, and costume‑related logistics for mainstage, approved student, and departmental thesis productions.
• Review costume requirements for productions and develop operational plans in consultation with faculty, guest designers, and the Production Manager.
• Oversee costume maintenance during rehearsals and performances to ensure quality, functionality, and continuity.
• Coordinate costume and wig fittings for performers and facilitate costume loans and rentals.
• Coordinate shared use of dressing room facilities with Hopkins Center Production staff and participate in departmental production meetings and planning activities.
• Manage daily shop operations, including workflow, scheduling, and supervision of shop staff, student employees, volunteers, and over‑hire personnel.
• Oversee the shop budget, including production‑related costume expenses and shop supply budgets, in partnership with the Production Manager.
• Maintain costume stock, including repair, storage, organization, and inventory of costumes, accessories, materials, equipment, and tools.
• Ensure safe and effective operation of shop facilities, equipment, and work spaces.
• Hire, train, and supervise student costume shop employees, coordinating with departmental administration to monitor schedules, budgets, and student employment processes.
• Provide technical guidance, coaching, and supervised experiential learning opportunities for students in costume construction and production activities.
• Advise student costume designers on technical feasibility, construction methods, timelines, and production requirements in coordination with faculty artistic direction.
• Supervise student costume and wardrobe crews during technical rehearsals and performances, ensuring adherence to production standards and safe practices.
• Oversee student use of shop tools, materials, and spaces to promote safety and technical skill development.
• Participate in department retreats, selected departmental meetings, and collaborative planning activities in support of Theater Department operations and productions.
• Demonstrate professionalism and collegiality through actions, interactions, and communications appropriate to an environment that is welcoming to all.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor or Bachelor of Fine Arts degree required.
• At least 6+ years of relevant professional experience, preferably in an academic theatrical costume shop.
• Knowledge of management practices; basic bookkeeping, budget management, purchasing, scheduling, and inventory control.
• Knowledge of costume machinery and equipment maintenance.
• Proficiency in hands‑on technical skill in costume construction, garment alteration, and fabric modification.
• Working knowledge of costume design and coordination.
• Ability to plan and prioritize work.
• Ability to supervise others.
• Commitment to mentoring student designers and technicians.
• Ability to interact and collaborate effectively with people of different age brackets, cultures, and socio‑economic backgrounds.
• Strong collaboration, written and verbal communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
• Excellent managerial skills and leadership qualities.

• Master of Fine Arts degree in Costume Design or Costume Technology preferred.

Dartmouth College is an equal‑opportunity employer under federal law. We prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status, marital status, or any other legally protected status. Applications are welcome from all.