Costume Shop Manager/Designer

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Job Description
The Costume Shop Manager/Designer is a key member of the theatre's creative and production team. This multifaceted role encompasses managing the costume shop, designing costumes for select productions, and, in later phases, developing and overseeing a costume rental program.

The position requires a dynamic combination of artistic creativity, technical expertise in costume construction, and strong organizational skills for shop management and rentals coordination. The ideal candidate will possess experience in costume design, construction, alterations, and wardrobe management, preferably within a summer stock or similarly fast-paced theatrical environment.

Key Responsibilities:

Costume Design Duties
Design Creation: Design costumes for selected productions, working closely with directors to capture the artistic vision.
Research and Concept Development: Conduct research on historical, cultural, or thematic elements as necessary, ensuring accurate and creative designs for its productions.
Renderings and Presentations: Prepare and present costume sketches and renderings, including fabric swatches and accessories, for approval by the creative team.
Budget and Sourcing: Develop and manage costume budgets, sourcing and purchasing fabrics and materials while staying within budget.
Fittings and Adjustments: Coordinate costume fittings, making alterations and adjustments as needed to ensure fit, comfort, and durability for each performer.

Costume Shop Management Duties
Shop Operations: Oversee all aspects of the costume shop, including maintaining a clean, organized, and safe workspace.
Inventory Management: Organize, maintain, and track costume stock, tools, equipment, and materials, regularly updating inventory for efficient use and storage.
Team Supervision: Hire, train, and supervise costume shop staff, interns, and volunteers, ensuring adherence to deadlines and quality standards.
Costume Construction: Oversee and assist with costume production, from pattern-making to garment construction, stitching, and alterations.
Maintenance and Repair: Ensure costumes and equipment are properly cleaned, maintained, and repaired as necessary throughout production runs.
Rentals: Oversee all rentals, from securing, receiving, and returning. Following all guidelines set by the renters agreement.
Safety and Compliance: Uphold and enforce safety protocols, especially regarding machinery and materials, within the shop environment.

Costume Rentals Coordination (Future Phase)
Program Development: Collaborate with theatre leadership to plan and establish a costume rental program for the public, including local schools, theaters, community organizations, and regional theatres.
Cataloging and Inventory Management: Develop a system for cataloging rental costumes, maintaining an accurate and accessible inventory. To be located on our website.
Rental Coordination: Coordinate costume rentals, including pricing, rental agreements, and tracking, ensuring high standards for the condition and quality of rental items.
Client Relations: Serve as the primary point of contact for rental clients, providing assistance and guidance on costume selection and rental policies.

Essential Skills and Qualifications
Experience: Minimum of 2 years in costume design and costume shop management, with additional experience in rental coordination. Preferably within a summer stock or similarly fast-paced theatrical environment.
Technical Skills: Proficiency in costume construction, sewing, draping, pattern-making, and alterations. Experience on industrial machines is a plus.
Design Skills: Strong costume design skills, with a portfolio demonstrating previous design work.
Organizational Skills: Proven ability to organize and manage costume inventories and workflows effectively. Strong organizational and digital file management skills
Financial Acumen: Experience with budgeting for costume production, as well as pricing and managing a rental inventory.
Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Excellent communication and collaboration skills to work effectively with directors, staff, and rental clients.
Computer Skills: Proficiency in design and application software and inventory management systems. Proficiency in Google Workspace (formerly G Suite), including but not limited to Google Docs, Sheets, Forms, Drive, Gmail, Calendar, and Meet.

Preferred Skills
Knowledge of Historical Costumes: Experience with period costuming and fabric treatments.
Experience with Rentals: Knowledge of best practices in costume rental coordination, including customer service and inventory control.

Working Conditions
Schedule: Flexibility required, with availability for nights and weekends during peak production times.
Physical Demands: Ability to lift up to 25 lbs, work with industrial sewing machinery, and stand for extended periods.
Shows Produced Per Year: 6 Summer, 1 Holiday, 2 Wagon Wheel JR, 2 Community Theatre.

Compensation:
Salaried Position: $45,000 per year. Benefits include health insurance after 90 days, paid time off, and opportunities for professional development.

To Apply:

The Wagon Wheel Theatre is dedicated to cultivating a diverse and inclusive community. We warmly welcome designers of all ethnicities, gender identities, ages, and abilities to apply for the Costume Shop Manager/Designer position.

Please submit your resume, cover letter, portfolio, and references to:
scottmichaels@wagonwheeltheatre.com