Assistant Costume Manager

Harvard T.H. Chan School Of Public Health - Cambridge, MA

Full-time - Entry Level

Cambridge, MA

About the position

The Assistant Costume Manager at the American Repertory Theater (A.R.T.) plays a vital role in supporting the Costume Design team and the Costume Department throughout the production process. Reporting to the Costume Manager, this position involves workflow management, fittings, shopping, and administrative duties, ensuring that costume production runs smoothly and efficiently. The role emphasizes collaboration, communication, and adherence to safety and departmental policies, while also fostering an inclusive and diverse work environment.

Responsibilities

• Monitor Costume build production in collaboration with the Costume Manager.
• Ensure costume staff are punctual and adhere to company policies and safety procedures.
• Inform staff of department meetings and ensure awareness of policies and paperwork.
• Provide feedback to the Costume Manager regarding staff performance and assist in staff hiring evaluations.
• Forecast staff project builds and adjust team assignments as needed.
• Facilitate communication on inter-departmental projects during tech.
• Update information in cloud-based sharing systems.
• Provide emergency coverage during fittings, load-ins, tech, dress rehearsals, and previews as needed.
• Support in-person purchasing of costume items and materials within budget.
• Assist with commercial costume labor needs for builds and fittings.
• Process packages and track purchases with the Costume Shop Manager and Costume Coordinator.
• Track and organize receipts and invoices with the Costume Manager and Design Assistant.
• Coordinate shipping of materials to commercial costume businesses and contractors.
• Assist with fittings by taking notes, pinning garments, and organizing fitting spaces.
• Update the Costume Manager on missing items after fittings.
• Support administrative duties related to materials and show needs, including paperwork and maintenance notifications.

Requirements

• 1+ years of experience in live entertainment, events, or relevant work experience and education.
• Broad working knowledge of costume construction.
• Experience in a costume shop, fashion, garment manufacturing, or similar environment.
• Experience with hand sewing and alterations.

Nice-to-haves

• Intermediate knowledge of Costume history, Theatre, Opera, Ballet, and/or fashion construction skills.
• Expertise in various sewing machines and tools.
• Familiarity with different types of fabrics and sewing notions.
• Proficient in using computers and basic software programs.
• Demonstrated commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and anti-racism.

Benefits

• 3-4 weeks of accrued vacation time per year, 12 accrued sick days, 12.5 holidays, and 3 personal days.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits, along with disability and life insurance.
• Child and elder/adult care resources, Employee Assistance Program, and wellness programs.
• University-funded retirement plan with contributions from 5% to 15% of eligible compensation.
• Tuition Assistance Program and Tuition Reimbursement for eligible courses.
• Professional Development programs and classes at little or no cost.
• Various commuter options including discounted parking and public transportation passes.
• Access to Harvard facilities, discounts, and perks.