Costume Shop Managerexpired
Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe
United States, Florida, Sarasota
Posted on: May 18, 2025
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Description:
Organizational Summary
WBTT is an award-winning, nonprofit, small professional theatre company celebrating over 25 years of storytelling! Our mission is to produce professional theatre that promotes and celebrates African American history and experience, engages a broad base of patrons and audiences, supports the development of a dynamic group of aspiring artists, and builds confidence in youth of color. Located in Sarasota, Florida, WBTT produces five Mainstage productions, along with numerous events, collaborations, and educational programs both on- and off-site.
Job Description
The Costume Shop Manager oversees the daily operations of the costume shop and wardrobe department. This role leads the costume department personnel in pulling from stock, constructing, altering, and maintaining costume pieces for all WBTT productions. The position is responsible for staff management, workflow organization, and continued costume skill education for junior staff members.
The Costume Shop Manager upholds WBTT’s high standards in costume production while working within nonprofit budgets and production timelines. This role collaborates closely with Costume Designers, the Production Manager, production teams, and wardrobe staff to ensure timely, high-quality costume execution.
Reports to: Production Manager
Responsibilities
Supervise the construction, pulling, purchasing, alteration, and fitting of all costume pieces according to designer instructions
Collaborate with designers and shop personnel to determine appropriate materials, fabrics, and construction techniques
Oversee special costume projects such as distressing, dyeing, and fabric treatments
Create and manage costume shop schedules to ensure deadlines are met
Lead and manage costume department staff
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe workspace
Monitor supply levels and coordinate material orders with the Production Manager
Train costume staff and ensure a productive, positive work environment
Communicate effectively with designers, directors, and production staff
Troubleshoot construction and technical costume issues
Oversee costume fittings and ensure performer comfort and mobility
Track and manage the department budget
Maintain and organize costume stock and equipment
Coordinate costume rentals, storage, and returns as needed
Assist wardrobe team with costume repairs during show runs; train wardrobe staff to complete repairs independently
Work with the Wardrobe Supervisor to ensure smooth transitions from construction to wardrobe maintenance
Train dressers and wardrobe staff on costume handling, quick changes, and repairs
Ensure costume integrity throughout each production’s run, implementing repair protocols when needed
Skills and Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Costume Design, Fashion Design, Theater, or related field, or equivalent professional experience
3–5 years of experience in a costume shop (supervisory experience preferred)
Strong knowledge of costume construction, pattern-making, alterations, and fabric treatments
Experience with crafting, dyeing, wardrobe, wigs, hair, and makeup
Excellent leadership and communication skills
Ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines
Knowledge of historical and contemporary costume styles and production techniques
Strong problem-solving skills and adaptability in fast-paced environments
Understanding of costume care, maintenance, and storage best practices
Benefits and Schedule
WBTT produces five Mainstage shows (September–June) and participates in various events and educational programming year-round
Occasional evening or weekend work, especially during tech weeks and load-ins
Full-time, year-round position
Individual health insurance (90% premium covered by WBTT)
403(b) retirement plan with company contributions
Salary commensurate with experience
15 vacation days per season
Position begins Monday, July 28, 2025
To Apply
Please send a cover letter, resume, portfolio, and references to:
Kevin White, Production Manager
No in-person or phone inquiries, please.
WBTT is an equal opportunity employer.
Application Deadline:
July 15, 2025
Job Duration:
Open ended
Job/Audition Type:
Full Time
Job Category:
Creative/Artistic
Payment status:
Paid
Job Location:
United States,
Florida,
Sarasota
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United Kingdom, West Midlands
