Stitcher

JOB OVERVIEW:

Under the supervision of the Costume Director and guidance of the Costume Manager, the Stitcher provides support for the active and highly-reputed USUO Costumes Department.  The Stitcher assists the Draper, Tailor, and Crafts teams with stitching, finishing, and altering assigned costume pieces. We are seeking a reliable, diligent, and detail-oriented individual who can take direction and work independently as well as collaboratively.  This individual should be comfortable with a variety of duties in the areas of stitching, alterations, and project management. The range of tasks also includes costume organization, physical labor, and understanding of theater costumes. In addition, the Stitcher will occasionally assist with costume rentals and stock.  We expect an individual with experience and skill willing to share their particular gifts with our collaborative team. Occasional evening work is required.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

• Assist Draper, Tailor, and Crafts teams with stitching, altering, and fitting assigned costumes.
• Sew assigned costume pieces by hand or machine.
• Seek and accept guidance from team leads and assistants on task execution.
• Complete hand and finish work as assigned.
• Complete all assigned projects in an efficient, safe and timely manner.
• Practice safe and appropriate use of common chemical-based products found in a costume workroom including, but not limited to: detergents, dyes, paint, glues, etc.
• Participate in cleaning and organization of costume spaces as needed.
• Assist with pulling, inventorying, and maintenance of costumes.
• See to repairs / costume needs for mainstage shows and costume collection.
• Assist in fittings as needed.
• Assist in mainstage costume quality control before load-in.
• Assist with transportation of costumes for Utah Opera productions and third-party rentals.
• Assist with the maintenance and laundry of the costumes.
• Maintain a clean and safe workspace.
• Occasional nights and weekends required.
• Other duties as assigned.

REQUIRED EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE/SKILLS:

• 3-5 years relevant stage costume stitching experience preferred.
• Experience with domestic and industrial sewing machines and sergers.
• Proficient in hand sewing.
• Knowledgeable about a variety of hand and machine sewing techniques.
• Ability to operate basic costume workroom equipment.
• Experience in garment construction.
• Ability to work consistently and regularly during heavy build and tech periods.
• Ability to follow directions, work collaboratively with a team of diverse skill levels, and skillfully achieve work.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to remain stationary (sitting or standing) for long periods of time.
• Ability to manually work safely with costume workspaces equipment.
• Ability to climb ladders to reach items.
• Ability to move rolling clothing racks weighing up to 200 pounds.
• Ability to twist, bend, reach, and kneel.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to safely transport costumes in personal or company vehicle to/from venues or distribution centers (FedEx, UPS, USPS, etc.).

SALARY:

• Pay begins at $20/hour, plus excellent benefits.

TO APPLY:

Please submit your application online @ www.usuo.org/employment, including a cover letter and résumé. Interviews will begin after November 9. Candidates should come prepared to present photos and work samples and to perform a stitch test during the interview.