Costume Shop Manager and Designer - Dean College

Location: Franklin, MA Category: Administration/Staff Posted On: Tue Jul 8 2025 Job Description:

The Costume Shop Manager and Designer is responsible for the construction and maintenance of costumes, supply management, and the oversight of the costume shop staff (including staff and students) during the regular academic year. This individual will also take part in the pre-production planning process as it pertains to costumes, which includes meetings, rehearsals, and fittings. The Costumer Shop Manager and Designer will also oversee backstage wardrobe during productions and is responsible for designing up to two shows per semester (dance and/or theatre projects) at the discretion of the School Dean. This position reports to the Dean of the Joan Phelps Palladino School of Dance and School of the Arts.


This is a 9-month, full-time, exempt position.


Position responsibilities include:

Design and/or work with the costume designers and respective production teams on scheduling and oversight of costume construction, alterations, cleaning, and repairs for all theatre and dance productions.
Organize the costume shop, supplies, and all inventory.
Manage shop equipment, including repairs, maintenance, and replacement.
Schedule backstage costume support during performances/run of show.
Attend fittings as necessary for troubleshooting and production continuity.
Participate in production meetings and work with Stage Management for fittings and production notes.
Oversee the completion of both made-to-order and pulled costumes for the stage for dance and theatre productions.
Prioritize work processes and expedite productions within scheduled deadlines.
Take part in the production process and facilitate a smooth transition of the costumes from shop to dress rehearsal.
Foster a culture of safety and ensure that a safe work environment and safe practices are observed.
Supervise and manage costume shop staff and students (interns, work study, etc.)
Other duties as assigned and/or required.
Managerial and Supervisory Responsibilities

Supervisor of student employees and interns (hiring, scheduling, timekeeping, etc.).
Supervisor for costume shop staff (hiring, scheduling, timekeeping, etc.).

Job Requirements:
Bachelor's degree is required.
Proficiency in theatrical cutting, stitching, and crafts for theatre and dance is required.
Expertise in costume design is required.
Management skills are preferred. Knowledge of costume history is required.
Working knowledge of costume materials (e.g., fabrics, notions, craft supplies, etc.) are required.
Experience using machinery in the costume industry (e.g., industrial and domestic single and multi-needle sequin machines, steam irons, cutting tools) is required.
Working knowledge of safety standards and standards implementation are required.
Prior experience engaging with a diverse collegiate population is required.
Ability to organize and maintain a well-structured shop environment is preferred.
Must be able to create an innovative, collaborative, inclusive, and productive environment. Strong interpersonal and communication skills are required.


Physical Requirements:

Frequently required to:

Walk, stand, stoop, kneel, bend, and crouch.
Lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
Specific vision requirements include:

Close vision and distance vision.
Depth perception.
Ability to distinguish basic colors and shades.
Ability to adjust focus.
Physical demands include:

Moving costumes, wardrobe boxes, and other materials to and from storage or around the building.
Constant movement and use of limbs.
Good manual dexterity, coordination, and stamina are required.

Additional Information:

Dean College is an equal-opportunity, Title IX institution and pledges to recruit, select and promote diversity by providing equality of opportunity in higher education for all persons, including faculty and staff with respect to hiring, continuation, promotion, and applicants for admission, enrolled students and graduates without discrimination or segregation.

The College is interested in candidates who have the communication skills and cross-cultural abilities to maximize their effectiveness with diverse groups of colleagues, students, faculty, and community members. All employment decisions are made on a non-discriminatory basis.

Dean College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, ****** orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law.

This nondiscrimination policy covers admissions, employment, and access to and treatment in College programs, services, and activities. A pre-employment background screen is required for all employees.