Job Description:
The Draper/Stitchers at Boston Conservatory at Berklee (BCB) are responsible for realizing costume designs, from sketch to completion, of BCB costume shop-supported productions across theater, dance and opera. The Draper/Stitchers complete all costume drafting, draping and construction projects as assigned across productions.
As part of the Performance Services department, the Draper/Stitchers report to the Costume Shop Manager, collaborate closely with full costume shop staff, work closely with the full Production team and interface with directors, designers, and students. The Draper/Stitchers supervise student workers . Each Draper/Stitcher position is an hourly, non-exempt position.
Realize the designs for all shop-supported productions across theater, music and dance
Complete all costume drafting, draping and construction projects as assigned
Perform all stitching, alterations, tailoring, and craft notes from costume fittings
Take and record student measurements for all shop-supported productions
Assist in maintaining all costume shop and show paperwork
Attend costume fitting as needed to assist designers in marking and notating costume alterations, and to fit mockups and final versions of constructed items
Support the training and instruction of the student workforce in costume organization, construction and alteration
Uphold proper safety measures and assist with shop housekeeping. In consultation with the Stock Manager, ensure stockrooms are well organized and updated as needed, and assist in maintaining inventory of supplies, stock fabrics, notions, and office materials.
Provide basic maintenance and troubleshooting of all shop equipment, including industrial and home sewing machines, irons and steamers
In consultation with the Costume Shop Manager, Attend Tech/Dress Rehearsals for troubleshooting, evaluation, and designer coordination
Support the cleaning, returning and restocking of all stock or rented costumes for each production
Support senior costume shop staff with tasks as needed
MINIMUM JOB QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor’s Degree: BFA, concentration in Costume Design, Theater/Production Design, or Fashion Design or equivalent experience
Professional costume experience preferred
KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED:
Proficiency in pattern drafting and draping required
Proficiency on industrial machines required
Competency in all aspects of Costume operations in theater, dance and opera
SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Extremely detail oriented and able to anticipate needs
Ability to remain flexible in a fast-paced environment
Ability to work well under pressure and with large groups of diverse personalities and priorities
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Student workers
Costume Shop Interns
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
Indoor environments, some with low light: costume shop, stages, backstage areas, dressing rooms
SPECIAL WORKING CONDITIONS, PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS, ETC:
Some nights and weekends required
Must be able to lift up to 30 pounds and climb ladders up to 12ft
Seated and standing positions, crouching, kneeling
This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an “at will” employment relationship.
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Equal Employment Opportunity at Berklee:
We support an inclusive workplace where everyone excels based on personal merit, qualifications, experience, ability, and job performance. Berklee affirms that inequality is detrimental to our faculty, staff, students, and the communities we serve. Our goal is to make lasting change through our actions. Berklee is committed to providing fair and equitable consideration of all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, ancestry, age, national origin, place of birth, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, genetic information, or status as a member of the armed forces or veteran of the armed forces, or any other category protected by federal, state, or local law.
As part of this commitment, Berklee will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact the Human Resources Team at hroperations@Berklee.edu or call 617-747-2375.
Berklee is committed to increasing the diversity of our institution, community, and the curriculum. Candidates who can contribute to that goal are encouraged to apply and to identify their strengths in this area.
*Currently enrolled Berklee students are not permitted to apply for staff or faculty positions.*
