Freelance Costume Tech

HOUSTON GRAND OPERA ASSOCIATION INC • Houston, TX

6d • Onsite

About The Position

The Houston Grand Opera Costume Shop Department is seeking a Freelance Costume Tech to assist with all aspects of costume realization and production, with a strong emphasis on stitching. This role involves working closely with the Costume Shop Supervisor and Draper to build and alter costumes for various productions. We encourage passionate and dedicated individuals to apply, even if their experience doesn't align perfectly with every listed qualification, as there may be other suitable roles.

Requirements

• At least 3 years of professional experience in clothing sewing construction, and alterations in a costume shop or fashion related industry.
• Excellent sewing skills: ability to accurately sew in a wide variety of fabrics.
• Proficient in operating industrial sewing machines as well as hand sewing in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience in production stitching, garment construction techniques, and finishing.
• Basic knowledge of cutting, patterning, and tailoring (dying and craftwork a plus).
• Ability to lift 30 lbs. to waist level.
• Ability to hang costumes on 6’6” clothes racks.
• Ability to organize, prioritize and maintain several projects at once and sustain productivity under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to interact effectively and professionally with staff, management, vendors, and artists.
• Ability to meet deadlines.
• Attention to detail.

Nice To Haves

• A degree in Costume Technology/Production or related field a plus.
• Dying and craftwork skills are a plus.

Responsibilities

• Work closely with the Costume Shop Supervisor and Draper in all aspects of building and altering of costumes for productions which include but are not limited to: sewing, prepping fabrics for new builds, and cutting.
• Accurately stitch alterations and new builds in a wide variety of fabrics according to specifications.
• Prepare costumes for fittings by pre-altering costumes according to performer’s measurements.
• Assist in the prepping of fabrics for new builds: washing and ironing, or pre-steaming.
• Assist from time to time to prepare shows by unpacking costume, measuring/ rehanging/ and steaming.
• Assist from time to time in the Houston Grand Opera Warehouse in the restocking/packing / organizing of costume stock, rental shows, and fabric restock organization.
• Assist with occasional crafts, and millinery work.
• Assist the Costume Shop Supervisor and Head of Costumes on department projects from time to time as needed and assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed