Head of Department, Wardrobe – Mad Apple

About the role

The Head of Department (“HOD”), Wardrobe is responsible for leading the Wardrobe team in constructing, maintaining, and running the production costumes for large-scale stage productions. This role involves overseeing the Wardrobe team, conducting staff performance reviews, supporting staff, managing budgets, and ensuring the safety and quality of costumes.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all departmental task lists and crew scheduling of day and show crews, rehearsals, trainings and show calls
• Conduct staff performance reviews and assist with hiring of new employees
• Support staff by establishing and training show tracks, staffing and run of show procedures
• Work with leadership on establishing and maintaining show budgets
• Manage records, including storage and inventories
• Manage the inventory and the order and procurement of supplies for maintenance and upkeep
• Establish systems of inspection and maintenance of costumes, shoes and accessories
• Work with the leadership to develop systems and procedures for maintenance of information and technical specifications on all costumes and accessories
• Lead staff to conduct costume fittings, manage items in Costume Database, transfer costume notes to Studio Team, check in and follow-up of new costumes into inventory system
• Cook up with the leadership on establishing and maintaining show budgets
• Coordinate, determine and oversee support for special projects, including the research, purchasing, construction and installations of new show elements, and other projects that include Wardrobe elements or other needs that may fall within the department’s specialty, as directed
• Maintain flexible schedule for such projects
• Participate in media events
• Other tasks include, but are not limited to: regular staff meetings; washing, checking dry cleaning, repair and maintenance of costume/craft items; Ensure all departmental-related documentation is completed accurately and in a timely manner. Set the strategy and standards for proper documentation and train team on best practices; Adhere to and promote all Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations as they pertain to the safe operation of all elements related to the show; participate in all required health and safety classes and emergency rescue procedure training; Contribute to a safe and positive working environment at all times by adhering to and following all Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group standards, values, policies and regulations pertaining to safety using equipment and established working methods; Assist other departments when necessary for cross-departmental support; Complete all other job-related duties as assigned.

Requirements

• At least five years of previous experience as a professional Costume Technician with experience in costume repair, shoe repair, makeup and millinery on large-scale stage productions
• Previous leadership experience leading projects and crew
• Working knowledge of Microsoft applications (Word, Excel and Outlook)
• Knowledge of SAP and Photoshop is an asset
• In-depth experience in theatrical costumes for large-scale production
• Ability to obtain OSHA 30 course completion card
• Availability to work varied shifts, including weekends and holidays
• Ability to perform the essential functions of the job including, but not limited to: crouching, kneeling, standing, lifting, sometimes for extended amounts of time; lifting at least 50lbs unassisted, etc.

Qualifications

• Fluent in English, both written and spoken
• Verification of the right to work in the United States for Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group, as demonstrated by completion of the Form I-9 upon hire and the submission of acceptable documentation (as noted on the Form I-9) verifying one’s identity and work authorization

Skills

• Strong leadership and organizational skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite
• Experience with SAP and Photoshop
• Knowledge of OSHA regulations

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities
• Flexible work schedule

Pay

Salary range: $75,000 - $100,000 per year

Schedule

Varying shifts, including weekends and holidays