Costume Technician I

About the role

The USC School of Dramatic Arts seeks a skilled and collaborative Costume Technician I to join its Costume Shop team. This position plays a vital role in supporting a dynamic production season by constructing, altering, maintaining, and managing costumes and costume accessories for theatrical productions while contributing to a professional and student-centered learning environment.

Responsibilities

• Costume Construction and Production

• Construct, alter, fit, and maintain costumes and costume accessories for productions.
• Create and modify patterns using flat patterning and draping techniques.
• Build historical, contemporary, and stylized garments utilizing professional theatrical construction methods.
• Support specialty costume projects, including millinery, costume crafts, and specialty fabrication as assigned.
• Aid in fabric sourcing, rentals, purchasing, and production-related costume logistics.
• Support technical rehearsals, dress rehearsals, performances, and strike activities as needed.

• Fittings and Costume Maintenance

• Take performer measurements and assist with costume fittings.
• Implement alterations and maintain costume records and tracking systems.
• Ensure costumes remain performance-ready throughout rehearsal and production runs.
• Assist with laundering, repairs, storage, and long-term maintenance of costumes and accessories.

• Costume Shop Operations

• Assist with inventory management, purchasing, budgeting, and shop organization.
• Maintain costume shop equipment, supplies, and workspaces.
• Support safe and efficient operation of the costume shop and related facilities.
• Utilize university systems and office software to maintain records and documentation.

• Student Support and Mentorship

• Supervise and mentor student workers, practicum students, and volunteers.
• Provide instruction in costume construction techniques, fittings, patterning, and shop safety.
• Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and educational environment that supports student learning and professional development.
• Model professional standards of craftsmanship, organization, and workplace conduct.

Qualifications

• Minimum Qualifications

• Associate's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum one year of practical experience in costume construction.
• Demonstrated skill in garment construction, alteration, and finishing techniques.
• Experience operating industrial sewing, pressing, and costume shop equipment.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple deadlines.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Google Workspace.

• Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or BFA in Costume Design, Theatre Production, or a related field.
• Experience in multiple areas of costume production, including patterning, draping, millinery, costume crafts, wigs, accessories, or specialty fabrication.
• Previous experience working in an educational, repertory, or professional theatre environment.