Costume Production Assistant

Washington National Opera•Washington, DC

3d•Onsite

About The Position

WNO is hiring a temporary Costume Production Assistant to coordinate logistics and activities related to the preparation of costumes for WNO productions as assigned. You will ensure that all production activities meet the expectations of time, budget, and artistic excellence. This contract runs from October 5 – November 15, 2026, with the potential to extend through the season.

Requirements

Post-secondary education in or comparable knowledge of theatrical production.
Must be highly motivated and a self-starter.
Excellent organizational and interpersonal skills.
Working knowledge of costumes and clothing fundamentals.
Basic knowledge of costume history.
Proficient computer skills, with a working knowledge of Microsoft Office, Filemaker Pro and other applications as necessary.
Basic budgeting, accounting, and record keeping skills.
Must be able to lift 30 pounds.
Must be able to climb and work safely from ladders.
Frequently required to bend, stoop, kneel or reach during fittings.
Must be able to move efficiently throughout all Costume work areas and performance spaces.

Responsibilities

Thoroughly review all relevant costume information for each production.
Pull undergarments, hosiery, and footwear as appropriate for each costume.
Procure additional materials and clothing items as requested.
Retain and provide receipts for any purchases.
Compile swatch sheets for each new costume to be built.
Schedule fittings as requested for chorus, supers, dancers, and youth.
Maintain the shared fitting calendar.
Assist the Costume Design Manager and the Rehearsal Department with scheduling principal fittings.
Prepare the fitting room for each fitting, ensuring that all required costumes and supplies are available.
Attend costume fittings and ensure that they are appropriately documented with photographs, notes, and costume labeling.
Compile and communicate notes from costume fittings for Costume Crafts.
Compile footwear repair notes and coordinate repairs with outside vendors.
Accurately maintain the costume plot, dressing lists, and photo charts.
Collaborate with Stage Management to provide requested rehearsal costumes.
Monitor daily rehearsal reports and attend to costume requests as assigned.
Attend all dress rehearsals and communicate costume notes for compilation.
As requested, be present at the theater for performances to address any artist's specific needs or to support cast changes.
Photograph costumes for archival purposes.
Assist with costumes strikes, return of rented costumes, and archiving as requested.
Compile comprehensive archival records of each production according to WNO specifications.
Ensure that all physical and electronic costume records are accurate and properly stored.
Responds to the needs and requests of management and staff in a professional and expedient manner.
Adheres to all employer policies and procedures.
Other duties as assigned.