The Costume Shop Manager and Designer is responsible for the construction and maintenance of costumes, supply management, and the oversight of the costume shop staff (including staff and students) during the regular academic year. This individual will also take part in the pre-production planning process as it pertains to costumes, which includes meetings, rehearsals, and fittings. The Costumer Shop Manager and Designer will also oversee backstage wardrobe during productions and is responsible for designing up to two shows per semester (dance and/or theatre projects) at the discretion of the School Dean. This position reports to the Dean of the Joan Phelps Palladino School of Dance and School of the Arts.

This is a 9-month, full-time, exempt position.


Position responsibilities include:

• Design and/or work with the costume designers and respective production teams on scheduling and oversight of costume construction, alterations, cleaning, and repairs for all theatre and dance productions.
• Organize the costume shop, supplies, and all inventory.
• Manage shop equipment, including repairs, maintenance, and replacement.
• Schedule backstage costume support during performances/run of show.
• Attend fittings as necessary for troubleshooting and production continuity.
• Participate in production meetings and work with Stage Management for fittings and production notes.
• Oversee the completion of both made-to-order and pulled costumes for the stage for dance and theatre productions.
• Prioritize work processes and expedite productions within scheduled deadlines.
• Take part in the production process and facilitate a smooth transition of the costumes from shop to dress rehearsal.
• Foster a culture of safety and ensure that a safe work environment and safe practices are observed.
• Supervise and manage costume shop staff and students (interns, work study, etc.)
• Other duties as assigned and/or required.
   

Managerial and Supervisory Responsibilities

• Supervisor of student employees and interns (hiring, scheduling, timekeeping, etc.).
• Supervisor for costume shop staff (hiring, scheduling, timekeeping, etc.).

Preparation, Training and Experience:

• Proficiency in theatrical cutting, stitching, and crafts for theatre and dance is required.
• Expertise in costume design is required.
• Management skills are preferred. Knowledge of costume history is required.
• Working knowledge of costume materials (e.g., fabrics, notions, craft supplies, etc.) are required.
• Experience using machinery in the costume industry (e.g., industrial and domestic single and multi-needle sequin machines, steam irons, cutting tools) is required.
• Working knowledge of safety standards and standards implementation are required.
• Prior experience engaging with a diverse collegiate population is required.
• Ability to organize and maintain a well-structured shop environment is preferred.
• Must be able to create an innovative, collaborative, inclusive, and productive environment. Strong interpersonal and communication skills are required.

Physical Requirements:

Frequently required to:

• Walk, stand, stoop, kneel, bend, and crouch.
• Lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
   

Specific vision requirements include:

• Close vision and distance vision.
• Depth perception.
• Ability to distinguish basic colors and shades.
• Ability to adjust focus.
   

Physical demands include:

• Moving costumes, wardrobe boxes, and other materials to and from storage or around the building.
• Constant movement and use of limbs.
• Good manual dexterity, coordination, and stamina are required.

Requirements

• Start Date: 8/15/2025 - Approximate
• Education: Bachelor's Degree Preferred
• Work Experience: 2 - 4 years
• Part/Full Time: Full-Time

Contact / Additional Information

To apply, go to Dean College Job Posting: Costume Shop Manager and Designer