Costume Assistant/ Technician

Pepperdine University•Malibu, CA

5d•$24 - $27•Onsite

About The Position

The purpose of this position is to offer costuming support to the Seaver College Theatre Department and Music Department in up to 6 shows collectively (5 theatre and 1 opera per academic year). As one of only two staff members who work in the Costume Shop (the other is the Costume Designer/ Shop Manager), this position plays a critical role in supporting a dynamic production season by supporting all aspects of costume production: construction, alterations, repairs, modifications, fittings, preservation and maintenance. This in-house position on the Malibu campus collaboratively supports Pepperdine’s theatrical productions while contributing to a professional and student-centered learning environment. It is done so with our mission in mind, to strengthen our student staff and faculty's lives through purpose, service, and leadership. The Costume Assistant/ Technician is responsible for all aspects of costume construction, modifications, repair and preservation. The person in this role needs to possess outstanding sewing skills, must be able to work independently, and must be able to ensure that the costume shop operates efficiently and smoothly in the midst of a hectic pace of work.

Requirements

5-year minimum practical costume construction experience or 3 years of practical costume construction experience and a Bachelor's degree or BFA in Costume Design, Theatre Production, or a related field.
Technical or course related training in the area of costume construction and technical drawing.
Experience with operating industrial and home sewing machines, overlock machines, industrial irons and steamers.
Skill in garment construction, alteration modification and finishing techniques as they relate to theatrical costumes.
Strong punctuality and organizational and time management skills.
Ability to create timelines and manage project work flow within deadlines presented.
Ability to lift and carry 30 pounds 20 feet. Ability to climb ladders and stairs.
General knowledge of costume history periods and styles. Proficient in Google docs, sheets as well as utilization of Google drive.
General typing and email proficiency.
Ability to photocopy department machinery once trained.

Nice To Haves

5+ years of practical costume construction experience and a Bachelor's degree or BFA in Costume Design, Theatre Production, or a related field.
Previous work experience in an educational, repertory, or professional theatre setting.
Experience in multiple areas of costume production including but not limited to: Fabric painting or dyeing, millinery, costume crafts, accessories.
Advanced knowledge of historical costume periods and styles and construction techniques for recreation of these silhouettes.
Advanced alterations tailoring in menswear.
Procreate
PC and Mac proficient
Cricut design
Airbrush

Responsibilities

Cut, drape, pattern, alter, construct, and otherwise build/modify costumes for theatrical productions.
Supervise production crews (to include student employees in the costume shop and student members of load-in crews). Must be able to share their expertise and knowledge with the student employees while also maintaining order and ensuring a smooth operating environment.
Conduct/supervise frequent student fittings while creating and maintaining a professional environment that respects the bodies of all those who come to the shop for fittings.
During infrequent periods when there is a lull in the demands for costume construction, the assistant/technician works independently to organize the existing costume stock, selecting pieces to be culled and pieces worth keeping for future productions. They will also use these periods to organize fabric, notions, tools, wigs, and other items housed in the shop. They must be able to complete this work independently and efficiently.
Perform alterations on rental costumes in ways that align with professional standards and that do not harm or irreversibly alter the garments.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Uphold University mission through work performed.