Costume Technician

DESCRIPTION

The Costume Technician plays a key role in supporting Virginia Rep’s wardrobe needs across multiple venues. Reporting to the Costume Shop Manager, the Costume Technician will collaborate closely to lead or assist with day-to-day operations and the successful execution of costume design for all performance-related programming. This position requires broad knowledge of costume design and construction techniques. This position requires some evening and weekend availability during rehearsal and performance periods.

Key Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with Costume Designers to facilitate fabrication and fit of costumes
• Collaborate with the Costume Shop Manager to generate build schedules to ensure completion of designs on schedule and within budgets
• Lead the construction and alteration of costumes as designed, following any guidance or creative input from the Costume Shop Manager and Costume Designer.
• Supervise overhire stitchers on projects as assigned.
• Attend production meetings and dress rehearsals as necessary (evening and weekend hours required)
• Attend costume fittings (may require evening or weekend hours) as scheduled.
• Participate in the setup of dressing areas.
• Participate in the repair and maintenance of garments throughout the production process, including washing, drying, steaming, ironing and handling dry cleaning.
• Assist the Costume Shop Manager with the general operation of the costume shop, organization of costume stock, pulling/restocking, and rentals.

Qualifications:

• Personable and culturally competent team player who is committed to collaborating in a safe, friendly and inclusive work environment.

• Minimum 3 years of professional costume shop experience in the performing arts industry is required. This is not an entry level position.
• Demonstrated knowledge and professional experience in theatrical costume design and construction is required.
• Expansive knowledge of periods and styles of clothing.
• Working knowledge of millinery, leather work, corsetry and distressing techniques required. Experience working with a variety of textiles and processes for dying and enhancing fabrics preferred.
• Proficient with patterning, cutting, draping, lining, stitching, machine sewing, serging, boning and industrial sewing. Demonstrated experience building from design to mockup to realized garment required. A skills test will be part of the hiring process.
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced and dynamic production environment.
• Ability to troubleshoot and adapt throughout the design and construction process.
• Ability to adhere to OSHA and CDC safety protocols and guidelines to ensure a safe and sanitary working environment.
• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds, complete detailed work with hands and fingers daily and for extended periods of time, stand for long periods, squat, kneel, climb steps, work at heights of 8-12’ on stock ladders, and work in low light situations.
• Positive attitude and desire to be part of a team.
• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record required; ability to drive cargo vans a plus.
• Additional duties and program support as assigned.

Apply

Please send a cover letter, resume, portfolio, and three references to [email protected] with the subject line (your last name) – Costume Technician. No phone calls please.

Details

This is a full time, exempt salaried staff position and is eligible for annual and sick leave, participation in company health, life, dental and vision insurance plans, and retirement plan with company match. The annual salary for this position is $45,000. Employment begins on or around 8/11/26.

Virginia Repertory Theatre is an equal employment opportunity employer committed to equitable and inclusive hiring practices and constructing an environment centered around anti-racist and anti-oppressive practices in our daily business. We invite applicants of all identities to apply as we continue to build a strong and diverse staff that represents our whole community.

DURATION

Aug 11, 2026 -

SALARY

$45,000.00 – $45,000.00 per year

• NON-UNION