Costume Shop Manager - School of Theatre and Dance

About The Opportunity

This position is responsible for the safe operation of the School of Theatre & Dance’s costume shop and craft area in the Canady Creative Arts Center and Media. The Costume Shop Manager will supervise students assigned to the Costume Shop as part of their laboratory and practicum assignments; help maintain shop space and equipment; work with instructors demonstrating costume and craft construction techniques for students; and supervise the wardrobe inventory.

• Aid students in care and cleaning of garments for each production and appropriate return inventory.
• Assist with costume builds as needed.
• Assist in determining products and materials for craft projects and daily construction of crafts.
• Practice knowledge of standard alterations, costume and craft construction procedures including: patterning, cutting, sewing, painting, mask crafting and general finishing techniques.
• Assist the Costume Director in the supervision of the wardrobe maintenance for each production.
• Help supervise students in methodology of proper wardrobe techniques and maintenance for all productions, and fittings per the Costume Director.
• Meet with students to schedule call times, repair of costumes, and closing night strike.
• Maintain a reasonable inventory of materials and supplies for normal shop operations.
• Read costume renderings (designs) and specifications to help determine the type and methodology of process necessary for the construction of costumes, crafts, properties and accessories.
• Is the lead on the flow of alterations through the shop in conjunction with grad students and shop faculty.
• Teach 1-3 Costume Lab sections each semester (THET 106 – 1 credit) each semester.

Requirements

• BA or BFA (preferably in Theatre, especially with a theatre design/technology emphasis) or equivalent.
• A minimum of one (1) year of management/supervisory experience and/or assistant costume designer and stitching skills in an established theatrical costume environment.
• An equivalent combination of related education and/or experience will be considered.
• All qualifications must be met by the time of employment.

Qualifications

• Knowledge, skills, and abilities:
  • Ability to clearly communicate knowledge and information about costume/craft construction to students, faculty, and staff in the safe use and proper orientation of equipment and machinery.
  • Knowledge of all tools and equipment used in the theatrical costume shop including but not limited to industrial domestic sewing machines, overlock sergers, washer/dryer units and industrial steam irons.
  • Knowledge of all products used in theatrical costume shop including but not limited to notions, fabric dyes, color removers, adhesives, and laundry/garment cleansing products.
  • Knowledge of safety regulations regarding equipment and supplies used in the theatrical costume shop.
  • Ability to read, write and perform mathematical calculations used in maintaining costume shop budgets and schedules.
  • Knowledge of standard forms for scheduling and budgeting as used in the theatrical costume industry.
  • Demonstrate ability to read and interpret theatrical costume renderings and drawings for costume construction.
  • Working knowledge, experience and training in craft, millinery, and dyeing techniques.
  • Familiarity with Costume History as it applies to the structured organization of inventory and wardrobe maintenance.
  • Working knowledge, experience and training in garment construction and in standard theatrical sewing techniques including: pattern drafting, cutting, sewing and fitting garments.
  • Ability to stand at cutting tables and/or work at a sewing machine, or hot dye pot for extended periods of time.
  • Knowledge and ability to create, write and edit MS Office 360, and Excel documents.
  • Additional skills in email communications expected and a general working knowledge of computers for daily reporting and online forms.
• Preferred Qualifications:
  • MFA in Costuming or Costume Design or Costume Technology (or Theatre or related crafts).
  • Supervision of GTA’s in the MFA Costume program is part of the position.

Physical Demands & Physical Coordination

• Ability to lift, bend, stoop, walk, reach, stand and/or work for extended periods of time.
• Ability/manual dexterity to perform highly detailed craft/hand work (sewing) with a high degree of accuracy.
• Ability/mobility to travel to costume storage facilities on and off campus.

About WVU

West Virginia University is a place of purpose and community. We take pride in our profound impact on the state of West Virginia and are committed to the personal and professional growth of our employees. From the groundbreaking R1 research at our flagship campus in Morgantown to the career-oriented programs at WVU Potomac State in Keyser, and the technology-intensive programs at WVU Tech in Beckley, the contributions of WVU employees resonate across the state, touching lives and shaping futures. At WVU, you will discover a supportive community that champions work-life balance and fosters a collaborative atmosphere. Our core values — service, curiosity, respect, accountability and appreciation — unite us as Mountaineers. Join us at West Virginia University, where your work will make a lasting impact.