Bijoux Craftsperson

Stratford Festival • Stratford, ON

6d • CA$36 - CA$44 • Onsite

About The Position

The Senior Craftsperson (Bijoux) is responsible for the execution of all textile embellishment, jewelry fabrication and accessory building required to support the design needs of assigned production(s). The Senior Craftsperson collaborates directly with the Designer, Assistant Designer, Cutter, the Props department and other Craft departments to achieve design goals and meet production timelines, relying on an extensive knowledge of costume history, materials, techniques, and construction methods. The Senior Craftsperson applies a wide range of decorative processes, including hand and machine sewing, decorative techniques, metalwork and jewelry construction, beading, appliqué and trim fabrication, embroidery, weaving, and other textile arts for costumes and accessories. This role functions as a lead craftsperson across multiple productions, balancing assigned show responsibilities while supporting additional projects as needed. The Senior Craftsperson attends dress rehearsals and other production events to assist in executing notes, maintains accurate documentation of techniques and materials, and collaborates with wardrobe management and fellow craftspersons to coordinate workloads and timelines. Responsibilities also include supervising and mentoring junior staff when assigned, maintaining the bijoux workspace and equipment, managing supply orders, and upholding production standards. This is a unionized position reporting to the Costume Director and represented by IATSE Local 357.

Requirements

• Post-secondary diploma program, typically a two year program, or equivalent, (i.e. Community college, Technical Institute or Trade School, etc.)
• 4 to 6 years at an equivalent responsibility level and proven experience in working in the theatre or film industry in a related area.
• Proven knowledge of costume and accessory history and demonstrated proficiency working with a variety of decorative techniques, fabrics, metals, craft materials, glues, solvents and other related products.
• Ability to adapt techniques and processes to meet the physical demands of theatrical costuming, long production runs and repeated laundering.
• Thorough understanding of the costume design and construction processes and a working knowledge of all related aspects of theatre production.
• Ability to work productively under pressure and successfully manage the demands of multiple productions simultaneously.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work within a team professionally and effectively. Excellent organizational and time management skills, with the ability to multi-task while working in a busy environment.
• Ability to stand for long periods, work in hot and humid environments, lift up to 50lbs and work overtime, as required.

Nice To Haves

• Experience working with iPads and Microsoft Office Suite is an asset.

Responsibilities

• Interpret sketches and design references and collaborate with Designers and others to ensure all elements of costume design are realized in the final product.
• Execute all pulling, sampling, construction and finishing as required by the decoration and accessory design needs of each assigned production.
• Attend design meetings, fittings and technical/dress rehearsals as needed.
• Maintain accurate show records, including a show binder, sample sheets and formula records for each assigned production.
• Work closely with Heads of Wardrobe to deliver finished costumes within pre-determined timelines, build hours and budgets, including regular updates on estimated hours to complete.
• Manage workloads and timelines in a repertory schedule, including balancing the needs of multiple productions and designers simultaneously.
• Collaborate with the other Bijoux craftspersons on workload assignments, timelines and budget assessments, and assist with projects for all productions, as required.
• Supervise and train junior craftspersons, as required
• Provide specific care instructions for the maintenance of costumes for the run of the show, as needed.
• Oversee regular shop maintenance tasks and liaise with Wardrobe Management to manage shop supply stock, repair requests, and year-end clean-up.
• Adhere to the Stratford Festival Health & Safety Commitment and Procedures and ensure that safe work practices and policies are supported and enforced within reporting structure.
• Foster a caring and inclusive work environment consistent with all Stratford Festival policies on equity, diversity, and inclusion.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Employee Assistance Program to encourage work-life balance and strong mental health
• Complimentary & discounted ticket offers and events
• Employee discounts on merchandise and event space

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Associate degree