Costume Cutter

Department: SoC Wirtz Center for Perf Arts
Salary/Grade: NEX/12

Job Summary:

Costume Cutter is responsible for the pattern drafting, fabric cutting, construction, alterations and fittings of costumes and costume pieces used in all productions. This position works in conjunction with the Costume Shop Manager and stitchers. They supervise student workers, partner with other staff on textile projects, and aid in maintaining the costume shop, its facilities and equipment.

Specific Responsibilities:

Production Preparation:

• Read scripts in order to have a knowledge of the needs of each production and to be able to provide input to the creative process with directors, designers, faculty and other staff members. Attend all necessary design presentations, staff meetings, production meetings, and preparation sessions.

Design & Construction Process:

• Work with graduate student and visiting designers, faculty design mentors, stitchers and Costume Shop Supervisor to establish priorities and provide expertise to create patterns, construct and/or alter all costume pieces and accessories for each production within budgetary and time constraints. Work with staff stitchers to ensure that costume elements are executed with high level of craftsmanship and efficiency. Attend fittings as scheduled/needed.

Supervision/Managerial:

• In conjunction with the Costume Shop Manager and stitchers, organize and manage the work of Graduate Assistants, work-study students, and undergraduate crews in costume production and check work progress with the intention of meeting production deadlines. Instruct and supervise graduate and undergraduate students in the proper use of all costume shop equipment and procedures. Provide input regarding workflow, need for temporary employees, and improvements in the production process, equipment, and facilities.

Facilities/Equipment:

• In conjunction with the stitchers, assist the Costume Shop Manager in maintaining and improving the areas of the physical plant directly related to costumes such as the shop, storage space, dressing and make-up rooms and laundry facilities. Will manage projects if deemed necessary.

Rehearsals & Performances:

• If necessary, attend work calls above regular daily schedule (technical and dress rehearsals, crew trainings) and in coordination with other staff members. Assist in the restoration of all costumes after a production closes. This includes dry cleaning, shipping, and restocking.

Other

• Coordinate costume needs and procedures with house technician or representative when performances take place outside of the Center.
• Serve as costume liaison with outside groups using Center facilities.
• Execute non-production-related Wirtz/University costume projects as time allows in cooperation with other staff members.
• Attend training sessions in CPR annually and First Aid as required.
• Provide insight for annual reviews and update of this job description.

Miscellaneous

Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications: (Education, experience, and any other certifications or clearances)

• Undergraduate Degree or commensurate experience in theatrical costuming or design or its equivalent in a related discipline and a minimum of three years professional experience.

Minimum Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities.)

• Costume pattern making, alteration, construction skills, garment/fabric cutting and associated skills.
• A general knowledge of theatre, theatre production and costume design process.
• Skills in using home, commercial, and blind-hem sewing machines.
• Supervisory experience.
• Exemplary work habits and the desire to teach them to others.
• Ability to establish and maintain productive and collaborative working relationships with faculty, staff, and students.
• Ability to organize and establish priorities for the work of others. Ability to manage and lead other artists.

Preferred Qualifications: (Education and experience

• A minimum of five years professional experience.
• Experience working in an educational or academic setting.

Preferred Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities)

• Advanced knowledge of costume construction, costume design process and its related techniques.
• Teaching or mentoring skills

Benefits:
At Northwestern, we are proud to provide meaningful, competitive, high-quality health care plans, retirement benefits, tuition discounts and more! Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/index.html to learn more.

Work-Life and Wellness:
Northwestern offers comprehensive programs and services to help you and your family navigate life's challenges and opportunities, and adopt and maintain healthy lifestyles.
We support flexible work arrangements where possible and programs to help you locate and pay for quality, affordable childcare and senior/adult care. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/work-life/index.html to learn more.

Professional Growth & Development:
Northwestern supports employee career development in all circumstances whether your workspace is on campus or at home. If you're interested in developing your professional potential or continuing your formal education, we offer a variety of tools and resources. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/learning/index.html to learn more.

Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected characteristics, including disability and veteran status. View Northwestern's non-discrimination statement. Job applicants who wish to request an accommodation in the application or hiring process should contact the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX Compliance. View additional information on the accommodations process.