Stitcher

JOB OVERVIEW:

Under the supervision of the Costume Director, the Stitcher provides support for the active and highly-reputed USUO Costumes Department. The Stitcher assists the Draper, Tailor, and Crafts Artisan/Milliner teams with stitching, finishing, and altering assigned costume and craft 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, understanding of opera costumes, and wardrobe supervision. In addition, the Stitcher will occasionally assist with costume rentals and stock. We expect an individual with experience and skill who is both teachable and willing to share their particular gifts with our collaborative team. Occasional evening work is required.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

Assist Cutter/Draper, First Hand, and Tailor in stitching, altering, and fittings assigned costumes.
Sew assigned costume pieces by hand or machine.
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: 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.
Supervise wardrobe on mainstage shows.
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.

DESIRED EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE/SKILLS:

Experience with domestic and industrial sewing machines and sergers.
Knowledgeable about a variety of hand and machine sewing techniques.
Proficient in hand sewing.
Ability to operate basic costume workroom equipment.
Experience in garment construction.
Interest and experience in costume crafts including dyeing, distressing, and millinery.
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 workroom equipment.
Ability to climb ladders to reach items.
Ability to move rolling clothing racks weighing up to 200 pounds.
Ability to twist, bend, reach, kneel, and 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 RANGE:

Pay begins at: $20/hour, plus excellent benefits

TO APPLY:

Please apply online. Application materials should include a cover letter and résumé.