Costume Technician I

Responsibilities

• Costume Construction and Production
• Construct, alter, fit, and maintain costumes and costume accessories for productions.
• Create and modify patterns using flat patterning and draping techniques.
• Build historical, contemporary, and stylized garments utilizing professional theatrical construction methods.
• Support specialty costume projects, including millinery, costume crafts, and specialty fabrication as assigned.
• Assist with fabric sourcing, rentals, purchasing, and production-related costume logistics.
• Support technical rehearsals, dress rehearsals, performances, and strike activities as needed.
• Fittings and Costume Maintenance
• Take performer measurements and assist with costume fittings.
• Implement alterations and maintain costume records and tracking systems.
• Ensure costumes remain performance-ready throughout rehearsal and production runs.
• Assist with laundering, repairs, storage, and long-term maintenance of costumes and accessories.
• Costume Shop Operations
• Assist with inventory management, purchasing, budgeting, and shop organization.
• Maintain costume shop equipment, supplies, and workspaces.
• Support safe and efficient operation of the costume shop and related facilities.
• Utilize university systems and office software to maintain records and documentation.
• Student Support and Mentorship
• Supervise and mentor student workers, practicum students, and volunteers.
• Provide instruction in costume construction techniques, fittings, patterning, and shop safety.
• Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and educational environment that supports student learning and professional development.
• Model professional standards of craftsmanship, organization, and workplace conduct.

Requirements

• Associate's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum one year of practical experience in costume construction.
• Coursework or technical training in costume construction, theatrical production, or technical drawing preferred.
• Demonstrated skill in garment construction, alteration, and finishing techniques.
• Experience operating industrial sewing, pressing, and costume shop equipment.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple deadlines.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Google Workspace.
• Bachelor's degree or BFA in Costume Design, Theatre Production, or a related field.
• Experience in multiple areas of costume production, including patterning, draping, millinery, costume crafts, wigs, accessories, or specialty fabrication.
• Previous experience working in an educational, repertory, or professional theatre environment.
• Application Materials
• Applicants should submit:
• Cover Letter describing qualifications and interest in the position
• Curriculum Vitae or Resume
• Names, addresses, telephone numbers, and email addresses of three professional references
• Additional Information:
• This position is required to work evenings and weekends depending upon the production schedule. Regular work hours during the production season are Monday through Friday 9:30am to 5:30pm, though subject to change as necessary. Occasional overtime may be required.
• The University reserves the right to add or modify duties and responsibilities as needed.
• Why Join USC School of Dramatic Arts?

Benefits

Additional Information

USC School of Dramatic Arts | Los Angeles, California Costume Technician I Full Time/On-Ground The USC School of Dramatic Arts seeks a skilled and collaborative Costume Technician I to join its Costume Shop team. This position plays a vital role in supporting a dynamic production season by constructing, altering, maintaining, and managing costumes and costume accessories for theatrical productions while contributing to a professional and student-centered learning environment. Working closely with costume faculty, shop leadership, guest designers, students, and production staff, the Costume Technician supports all phases of costume production, from pattern development and garment construction to fittings, maintenance, and wardrobe support. The successful candidate will bring strong craftsmanship, attention to detail, and a commitment to mentoring students while upholding professional theatre standards.

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