First Hand/Stitcher - Orlando Shakespeare Theater

Seasonal | July 20, 2026 - February 28, 2027 | $19.00/hr | Open Until Filled

Orlando Shakespeare Theater is seeking a skilled First Hand/Stitcher to join our Costume Department for the upcoming season at the Lowndes Shakespeare Center in Orlando, FL. This is a seasonal, hourly position reporting to the Costume Shop Supervisor.

About Orlando Shakespeare Theater
Orlando Shakespeare Theater (Orlando Shakes) is one of the Southeast's leading professional theaters, celebrating more than 35 years of live performance in the heart of Orlando. Operating year-round from the Lowndes Shakespeare Center - a 53,000 square foot facility located at 812 E. Rollins St., Orlando, FL - Orlando Shakes produces a diverse season of classical works, contemporary plays, new American works, and beloved holiday productions including our annual production of A Christmas Carol.

Our four performance spaces - the Margeson Theater (324 seats), Goldman Theater (118 seats), Santos-Dantin Theater (65 seats), and Mandell Theater (100 seats) - host a full year-round season alongside robust educational programming. Orlando Shakes operates in partnership with the University of Central Florida (UCF) and employs professionals from across the country, including members of Actors' Equity Association, United Scenic Artists, and the Stage Directors and Choreographers Society.

Position Description
A First Hand/Stitcher is responsible for the construction of costumes as assigned by the Costume Shop Supervisor.

Key Responsibilities:
- Cut and assemble costumes for each production. This includes machine sewing, hand sewing and costume crafts.
- Assist with creation and modifications of patterns for costume construction.
- Work with Draper/Tailor to fit, alter and repair costume pieces.
- Assist in costume fittings.
- Maintain costume stock, as assigned by the Costume Shop Supervisor.
- Maintain a clean and safe work environment.

Qualifications/Skills:
- 1+ years experience in theater costume construction.
- Strong knowledge of sewing techniques (hand and machine).
- Strong knowledge of shop equipment and tools.
- Extensive knowledge of textiles.
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
- BA or equivalent professional experience.

Schedule
- Monday through Friday; daytime hours; occasional nights or weekends.

Physical Demands and Work Environment
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand and sit. Position requires some bending, crouching, reaching, grabbing, lifting up to 25 lbs, and pushing/pulling 50 lbs. The employee is required to talk, hear, and see. The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to perform the essential functions of this job successfully. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Commitment to Diversity
Orlando Shakespeare Theater is committed to diverse and inclusive hiring. We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds, ethnicities, gender identities, abilities, ages, and perspectives. We particularly welcome Orlando and Florida-based candidates as part of our commitment to supporting our local artistic community. We believe that diverse creative teams strengthen our productions and better serve our community.

Compensation
$19.00 per hour. Housing and transportation are not provided. This is a seasonal hourly position.

Benefits
- 403(b) retirement plan
- Health Insurance
- Dental Insurance
- Vision Plan
- Paid time off

How to Apply
Qualified applicants should apply via email to jobs@orlandoshakes.org. Please include "Your Name" and "First Hand/Stitcher" in the subject line.

Please submit a current resume, cover letter, and references (with email contact) as a single PDF.

No Phone Calls Please.

Orlando Shakespeare Theater is an equal opportunity employer.