Costume Shop Supervisor

Reports to: Technical Director

Direct Reports: Assistant Costume Shop Manager, Assistant Designers, Cutter/Drapers, Stitchers

Time Commitment: 40 hours per week

Compensation: $65,000 to $75,000 Salary DOE

Position Type: Full-time, Exempt, At-Will Employee

Hale Center Foundation for the Arts and Education (dba The Ruth and Nathan Hale Theater / The Ruth) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing high-quality, family-friendly theater experiences. We are passionate about arts education and its positive impact on our community. Join our team and be part of a mission-driven organization that brings joy and culture to Utah Valley!

Position Summary:

The Costume Shop Supervisor oversees the daily operations of the costume shop, ensuring the successful construction, alteration, and maintenance of costumes for all productions. This position is responsible for managing staff, coordinating workflow, and maintaining high-quality standards in costume production while adhering to budgets and deadlines. The Costume Shop Supervisor collaborates closely with designers, production teams, and wardrobe staff to bring costume designs to life efficiently and effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Costume Construction & Coordination

  • Supervise the construction, alteration, and fitting of costumes based on designer specifications.
  • Maintain high-quality craftsmanship in all costume production and ensure all pieces meet design and safety requirements.
  • Work with the designer to determine materials, fabrics, and costume construction techniques.
  • Oversee and execute special costume projects such as distressing, dyeing, and fabric treatments as needed.

Shop Management & Workflow

  • Create and oversee costume shop schedules to ensure timely completion of all builds, alterations, and repairs.
  • Manage the workload of stitchers, first hands, drapers, and other costume shop staff.
  • Ensure safe and efficient shop practices, including maintaining a clean and organized workspace.
  • Monitor supply levels and order materials, tools, and equipment as needed while staying within budget.

Staff Supervision & Collaboration

  • Hire, train, and manage costume shop personnel, ensuring a productive and positive work environment.
  • Communicate effectively with costume designers, directors, and production managers to ensure design execution aligns with artistic vision.
  • Provide guidance and troubleshooting for technical and construction challenges.
  • Oversee costume fittings and alterations, ensuring performer comfort and mobility.

Budgeting & Inventory

  • Track and manage the costume department budget, ensuring cost-effective solutions.
  • Maintain inventory of costume stock, supplies, and equipment.
  • Coordinate costume rentals, storage, and returns when applicable.

Wardrobe & Show Support

  • Collaborate with the wardrobe supervisor to ensure a smooth transition from costume construction to wardrobe maintenance and performance run.
  • Assist in training dressers and wardrobe staff on proper costume handling, quick changes, and repairs.
  • Ensure costumes remain in good condition throughout the run of each production, implementing repair and maintenance protocols as needed.

Skills and Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Costume Design, Fashion Design, Theater, or related field, or equivalent professional experience.
  • Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in a professional costume shop, with supervisory experience preferred.
  • Strong knowledge of costume construction, pattern-making, alterations, and fabric treatments.
  • Excellent leadership and communication skills with experience managing teams.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines.
  • Knowledge of historical and contemporary costume styles, fabric types, and theatrical costume production techniques.
  • Experience working with industrial sewing machines, sergers, and specialty costume equipment.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and adaptability to fast-paced production environments.
  • Understanding of costume care, maintenance, and storage best practices.

Compensation Guidelines:

Position Type: Full-Time, Exempt

Hours to Work: 40 hrs. per week

Schedule:

  • Typical hours: Daytime (Monday–Friday)
  • Evening & weekend hours required during tech rehearsals and weeks leading up to performances

Nature of compensation: Salary

Compensation: $65,000-$75,000 DOE

Growth Opportunities:

  • Technical Director
  • Production Manager

Benefits Included:

  • Health insurance & dental
  • Life Insurance
  • Long & Short-Term Disability
  • 401K
  • Paid time off and holidays
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