ABOUT US

Seattle Rep is committed to producing extraordinary programming. We believe that our ability to contribute to excellence in the arts depends on building and supporting a robust and diverse community.

We continuously work toward inclusion of those who have been excluded historically, particularly BIPOC communities, women, LGBTQIA+ people, immigrants and refugees, and people with disabilities, ensuring they are represented in all parts of the organization, including at the decision-making table, inclusive of their intersectional identities like age, religion, background, political ideology, and veteran or military status. This work is reflected in our:

Mission

Seattle Rep collaborates with extraordinary artists to create productions and programs that reflect and elevate the diverse cultures, perspectives, and life experiences of our region.

Vision

Theater at the heart of public life

Values

Artistic Vitality, Sustainability, Generous and Inclusive Practices

ABOUT THE POSITION

Seattle Rep is seeking a highly skilled First Hand to join the Costume Department Team. The First Hand is a critical member of the Costume Department, and provides essential support for our high quality productions.

The First hand works with/assists the Draper/Tailor in construction and alteration of costumes starting from two-dimensional drawings through the process of marking, stitching, fitting and completion.

Typical Duties Include:

Act as First Hand

• Assist Draper/Tailor and Costume Designer in the planning, quality, and timely construction of garments for all productions.

• According to the prescribed schedule, cut out garments via patterns supplied by the Draper/Tailor, ensuring the most efficient and artistic use of the fabric.

• Assemble garments from mock-up to finished look.

• Prepare fabrics to be cut; may include washing, pressing, and rolling for storage

• Work with Draper/Tailor to pass along to stitchers the cut-out garment/fabric pattern pieces for garment construction.

• In consultation with the Draper/Tailor, mark pattern pieces for sewing information, assist in thread and interfacing choices, use various garment construction techniques, and guide stitchers through assigned projects.

• Ensure workflow continues if Draper/Tailor is occupied.

• Assist in fittings with Draper/Tailor, taking notes and providing general support for the session.

• After fittings, oversee and/or execute garment alterations, as directed, including truing as needed.

• Take on pattern assignments from Draper/Tailor.

Assist in care, maintenance and organization of costume workroom

• Assist Associate Costume Director to ensure adequate shop inventory count and storage.

• Assist Costume Stock Manager in maintaining order in onsite and offsite stock rooms.

• Support the organization of the workroom and cleanliness of the equipment.

Build and Maintain a Personal Investment in Seattle Rep and our EDI work

• Proactive engagement and implementation of EDI (Equity, Diversity & Inclusion) practices.

• Attend to other assignments as identified by the Costume Director, including but not limited to activities in the theatre itself.

• Attend meetings pertinent to production, costumes, all SRT staff, and EDI work.

• Promote a respectful work environment.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Commitment to cultivating an equitable, diverse, and inclusive workplace via decisive action including consistently seeking out opportunities for self and community improvement in the areas of racial equity, accessibility, gender inclusivity, and cultural sensitivity.

• Two years of First Hand experience in professional theatre or equivalent.

• Skill and working knowledge of professional sewing techniques and materials acquired through formal education and/or work experience.

• Working knowledge of various fabrics and their characteristics.

• Working knowledge of industrial sewing machines, irons, measuring tools, and appropriate safety techniques.

• Ability to execute projects efficiently and according to schedule.

• Must be in good physical condition with ability to reach, squat, pull, bend, and be on feet up to four hours per day.

Desired Qualifications:

• A demonstrated ability to work effectively, independently, and as a member of a team.

• Ability to work well with others, often in stressful time sensitive conditions, while helping to maintain a respectful work environment.

• Excellent organizational and communication skills.

• Knowledge of fashion and costume history, fashion trends, designer styles, and social history.

Seattle Rep is excited about and actively working towards becoming a more diverse, anti-racist organization. We are interested in attracting, developing, and advancing the most talented individuals regardless of their race, sexual orientation, religion, age, gender, disability status or any other dimension of diversity. We strongly encourage people of color, women, LGBTQIA+, veterans, individuals with disabilities, and others from marginalized or underrepresented groups to apply.

Every candidate brings something special to the table. If your experience and skills don't perfectly align with the job qualifications but you are excited about the role, feel your values align well with the Rep, and are willing to strive for excellence in your work, please apply. We will train the right candidate.

TO BE CONSIDERED

1. Submit a resume detailing related experience and education
2. Submit a cover letter that outlines how your related experience and education qualifies you for the position and illustrates why you want to work at Seattle Rep.

Applications will be reviewed once the position has closed.

Workplace accessibility and accommodations can be discussed with HR once an offer of employment has been extended.