POSITION:   Costume Shop Assistant

CLASSIFICATION:  Seasonal - Full Time

STATUS:   Non-Exempt

REPORTS TO:  Costumes Supervisor

LOCATION:   Williamstown, MA

COMPENSATION:  $20 Per Hour

HIRING TIMELINE:  Applications to be accepted until filled with a priority application deadline of 3/18/2024. Application review and interviews to be conducted starting 3/18/2024 with an anticipated start date of 06/13/24 and end date of 8/4/24.

JOB SUMMARY: 

The Williamstown Theatre Festival is seeking a creative and skilled individual to join our team as a Costume Shop Assistant for the 2024 season. As a Costume Shop Assistant, you will work under the direction of the Costume Shop Manager to support the procurement and creation of costumes for multiple productions. This position requires craftsmanship, attention to detail, and a proactive approach to ensure the integration of costumes into our main productions.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Costume Execution:

• Research and source costumes, both locally and through vendors, ensuring they align with the artistic vision and period requirements of the production.
• Work with the budget allocated for costumes, making cost-effective decisions while maintaining the quality and authenticity of the design.
• Construction and creation of costumes as needed, following any guidance or creative input from the Costume Shop Manager.
• Assist the Shop Manager with the operation of the costume shop and costume stock. 
• Monitor the condition of costumes throughout the rehearsal and performance periods, making necessary repairs and ensuring their proper maintenance.
• Adhere to safety protocols and guidelines to ensure a secure working environment for yourself and the entire production team.

Team Collaboration:

• Collaborate with Costume Shop Manager, Costumes Supervisor, and creative team to ensure costume designs align with the artistic vision of the production.
• Contribute to creative problem-solving and troubleshooting during the production process, addressing challenges related to costume creation and implementation.
• Work closely with other departments, including scenic design, lighting, and sound, to achieve a cohesive and integrated production design.
• Partake in season debrief meetings and create documentation of notes that will better serve the position and costumes department next summer.
• Embrace the Festival’s commitment to EDIA and Anti-Racism by actively participating in and encouraging behaviors among staff members that exemplify respect; interrupting microaggressions and other behaviors that hinder our EDIA and Anti-Racism efforts; engaging in the diversification of the workforce; demonstrating a degree of cultural competency that encourages healthy relationships with all company members.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• The Williamstown Theatre Festival does not require a specific number of years of experience or have a minimum for educational credentials.
• Previous professional experience or relevant internships in theatrical costume design or construction is preferred.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced and dynamic production environment.
• Eagerness to learn and a proactive approach to tasks.
• An essential function of this job is in-person work in Williamstown, MA.