Costuming Specialist

Job Summary:

The Costuming Specialist supports the design, production, and maintenance of character costumes, cosmetic overlays, animatronic “skins,” and other soft goods used in our productions.  A Costuming Specialist should possess a high level of practical experience with patterning, stitching, and assembly as well as training and quality control.  A Costuming Specialist will be expected to operate independently as well as supervise team members while helping to maintain a safe, organized, and efficient costume shop environment.

Essential Duties:

·         Lead the patterning, draping, and fabrication of costumes, character suits, and soft goods for animatronics and puppets.

·         Support the preparation and organization of materials, supplies, and tools needed for projects.

·         Perform intermediate to advanced stitching, finishing, and costume construction tasks without immediate supervision.

·         Help maintain project timelines by following assigned schedules and communicating progress or delays.

·         Ensure quality and consistency in all work performed, following company and department standards.

·         Participate in fitting, alteration, and repair of costumes as needed.

·         Maintain a clean, safe, and well-organized work area.

·         Assist with inventory management and restocking of costume shop supplies.

·         Follow all safety procedures and use protective equipment as required.

·         Perform other related duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

·         Advanced knowledge of fabrics, materials, and sewing notions used in costume construction.

·         High level of experience with sewing equipment, including industrial and domestic sewing machines, steam irons, and cutting tools.

·         Strong attention to detail and craftsmanship.

·         Ability to follow instructions and work both independently and as part of a team.

·         Ability to create work instructions and produce patterns and documentation.

·         Good organizational and time management skills.

·         Willingness to learn new techniques and processes.

·         Basic computer skills (Microsoft Office Suite experience preferred).

·         Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 30 lbs. as needed.

·         Experience with dying of natural and synthetic fabrics and materials.

Physical Demands:

·         Moderate lifting or carrying (15-30 lbs.).

·         Intermittent standing, sitting, and stooping.

·         Frequent use of hands and arms for reaching, cutting, sewing, and assembly.

·         Occasional work on ladders or lifts (training provided).

·         Must have good vision and color perception for detailed fabric work.

Work Environment:

·         Workshop setting with exposure to fabrics, dyes, and machinery.

·         May involve working around dust, adhesives, and cleaning chemicals (safety training provided).

·         Requires adherence to safety and PPE standards.