Job Bank

Draper
Princeton, NJ
McCarter Theatre Center
Full Time
Posted May 12, 2022
POSITION: Draper
DEPARTMENT: Production / Costumes
REPORTS TO: Costume Supervisor
CLASSIFICATION: Full-time, Seasonal (Aug – June), Non-exempt
BASE PAY: $1,240 weekly
BENEFITS INCLUDE: Medical, vision, and dental insurance, flexible spending accounts, paid vacation, sick and personal time, life insurance, long-term disability insurance, and a 403 (b) retirement plan
START DATE: August 15, 2022 ideal, but flexible

Duties and Responsibilities

• Responsible for the construction and proper fit of assigned costumes, including the development of patterns and cutting of all fabrics.
• Responsible for planning the construction process and providing guidance to the First Hand(s) and Stitcher(s).
• With the Costume Supervisor, determine the labor distribution for each project.
• With the Costume Supervisor, determine costume shop materials and supplies needs.
• Pull items from stock and prepare rehearsal costume pieces as requested.
• Gain familiarity with the script, time period, and costume design for each production.
• With the Costume Designer, ascertain the design and construction details of each costume.
• Prepare and conduct costume fittings for each garment; coordinate with the Designer and give notes to the First Hand(s).
• Attend to Costume Craft needs (dying, distressing, painting, millinery, shoe notes, etc.) as assigned.
• Assist with the load-in of costumes to the theater for technical rehearsals.
• Attend technical rehearsals as scheduled; complete notes as given by the Designer and Costume Supervisor; give clear instructions to Wardrobe Supervisor for any special care items.
• Assist the Wardrobe department as needed.
• Maintain organization and cleanliness in the costume shop, storage spaces, wardrobe rooms, dressing rooms, and laundry areas.
• Adhere to safe working practices and follow all McCarter safety policies.
• Participate in the work to make McCarter an anti-racist theater. Actively seek ways to improve our work practices to make the Production Department more Equitable and Inclusive.

Requirements

• Demonstrated proficiency in patternmaking and draping.
• Knowledge of and experience in a variety of costume construction techniques, including, but not limited to, craft work, fabric modification, millinery, leather work, etc.
• Strong hand and machine sewing skills.
• Working knowledge of costume industry machinery, including sewing machines, irons, and cutting tools.
• Excellent organizational and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to lift, push, or maneuver at least 40 lbs., either alone or with assistance from others.
• Able to work in a positive manner as a team with other full and part-time staff members.
• Ability to provide guidance and instruction in a respectful and encouraging manner.
• Willingness to learn new methods of construction, skills, and equipment.
• Willingness to learn new ways of working and leading that foster an anti-racist and employee-first environment in the costume shop and production department.

How To Apply

We encourage all candidates to apply, even if they do not currently meet all qualifications. We know there are great candidates who may not have all of the qualifications listed above but possess intuitive knowledge or other fully transferable skills. If that’s you, don’t hesitate to apply and tell us about yourself. McCarter is committed to on the job training and mentorship. We also encourage candidates who do not live within commuting distance to apply. We are eager to tell you about the area, which includes many communities and towns outside of Princeton, and will discuss what it would mean for you to relocate. If you are interested in supporting McCarter’s artistic vision, we would love to hear from you. Please email jobs@mccarter.org with “Draper” in the subject line to introduce yourself. Please let us know your skills and any applicable work experience. You do not need to submit a formal resume, although they are welcome. Do include a link to your digital portfolio or attach example of your work. Please also mention where you heard about the position.