Seattle Rep is seeking a highly skilled First Hand to join the Costume Department Team. The First Hand is a critical member of the Costume Department, and provides essential support for our high quality productions.

The First hand works with/assists the Draper/Tailor in construction and alteration of costumes starting from two-dimensional drawings through the process of marking, stitching, fitting and completion.


Typical Duties Include:

Act as First Hand

Assist Draper/Tailor and Costume Designer in the planning, quality, and timely construction of garments for all productions.

According to the prescribed schedule, cut out garments via patterns supplied by the Draper/Tailor, ensuring the most efficient and artistic use of the fabric.

Assemble garments from mock-up to finished look.

Prepare fabrics to be cut; may include washing, pressing, and rolling for storage

Work with Draper/Tailor to pass along to stitchers the cut-out garment/fabric pattern pieces for garment construction.

In consultation with the Draper/Tailor, mark pattern pieces for sewing information, assist in thread and interfacing choices, use various garment construction techniques, and guide stitchers through assigned projects.

Ensure workflow continues if Draper/Tailor is occupied.

Assist in fittings with Draper/Tailor, taking notes and providing general support for the session.

After fittings, oversee and/or execute garment alterations, as directed, including truing as needed.

Take on pattern assignments from Draper/Tailor.

Assist in care, maintenance and organization of costume workroom

Assist Associate Costume Director to ensure adequate shop inventory count and storage.

Assist Costume Stock Manager in maintaining order in onsite and offsite stock rooms.

Support the organization of the workroom and cleanliness of the equipment.

Build and Maintain a Personal Investment in Seattle Rep and our EDI work

Proactive engagement and implementation of EDI (Equity, Diversity + Inclusion) practices.

Attend to other assignments as identified by the Costume Director, including but not limited to activities in the theatre itself.

Attend meetings pertinent to production, costumes, all SRT staff, and EDI work.

Promote a respectful work environment.

Minimum Qualifications:

Commitment to cultivating an equitable, diverse, and inclusive workplace via decisive action including consistently seeking out opportunities for self and community improvement in the areas of racial equity, accessibility, gender inclusivity, and cultural sensitivity.

Two years of First Hand experience in professional theatre or equivalent.

Skill and working knowledge of professional sewing techniques and materials acquired through formal education and/or work experience.

Working knowledge of various fabrics and their characteristics.

Working knowledge of industrial sewing machines, irons, measuring tools, and appropriate safety techniques.

Ability to execute projects efficiently and according to schedule.

Must be in good physical condition with ability to reach, squat, pull, bend, and be on feet up to four hours per day.

Desired Qualifications:

A demonstrated ability to work effectively, independently, and as a member of a team.

Ability to work well with others, often in stressful time sensitive conditions, while helping to maintain a respectful work environment.

Excellent organizational and communication skills.

Knowledge of fashion and costume history, fashion trends, designer styles, and social history.