Draper in Boston, Massachusetts at Boston Ballet

The heart of Boston Ballet is the human experience. Through our living and breathing art, we forge human connections—between artist and attendee, teacher and trainee, friend and newcomer, one's outer and inner self. We believe that the community of employees that makes dance possible is better together when talented individuals with varied life experiences, identities, races, cultures and ideas are welcomed, encouraged, and heard.

Boston Ballet seeks a full-time Draper to start work in mid-September to lead a team of three in constructing, fitting, and refurbishing costumes for professional ballet productions.

This is an advanced level, hands-on production role requiring demonstrated professional experience in a theatrical costume shop environment. Candidates must be able to work independently, manage complex builds and fittings, and contribute immediately within a fast-paced production schedule. This is not an entry-level or apprentice position.

The ideal candidate has a minimum of 4-6 years of professional draping experience in professional dance, theater, opera, or a comparable professional performance environment. Experience must extend beyond academic or student productions. In consultation with the Director of Costumes, the Draper will lead a team on projects in collaboration with other costume shop teams and production staff.

Work includes new builds as well as remounts and refurbishments of existing and rented productions. The Costume Shop is a fast-paced, multi-program environment requiring strong technical skills, efficiency, collaboration, and professional-level costume production experience. Along with technical skills, the Draper must be an excellent team leader and be able to guide, delegate, and manage the workflow of their team, which includes one First Hand and one Stitcher, plus occasional Over Hire staff.

Interested candidates must include links to view examples of previous draping work to be considered.

Responsibilities

• Interpreting design sketches and creating a plan to execute the construction of the designs
• Draping, pattern making, and sewing for assigned designs
• Performing fittings of new and existing costumes on dancers of all genders
• Supervising alterations and assigned costumes
• Supervising team’s work, monitoring safety and quality of work
• Calculating yardage and supplies needed for assigned projects
• Training personnel as necessary
• Attending dress rehearsals, taking notes, and trouble-shooting backstage
• Other duties as assigned

• Minimum MFA in costume technology or comparable professional experience
• Minimum 4-6 years draping in a costume shop at a professional level
• High skill level in working with a variety of fabrics, particularly stretch fabrics
• In depth knowledge of ballet costumes, costume history, construction, and historic patterns
• The willingness and desire to learn and teach new methods
• Knowledge of machinery used in costume construction
• Demonstrated supervisory experience and leadership in a professional theater setting.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure.
• Strong problem solving, organizational, and interpersonal skills

Work Conditions and Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods and move between sewing, cutting, and fitting areas
• Frequent bending, stooping, and reaching while working with garments and materials
• Ability to lift and transport materials up to 40 lbs.
• Close visual acuity to assess fit, construct patterns, and inspect detailed work
• Ability to operate sewing machines, cutting tools, and other costume shop equipment
• Ability to work in a workroom environment with fabrics, machinery, and occasional exposure to shop materials (i.e. dyes, adhesives)
• Physical stamina to sustain repetitive tasks and meet production deadlines

Benefits

• BCBS HMO health insurance plan with zero deductible
• BCBS dental insurance with employer providing 100% annual premium for individual coverage
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) – health and dependent care
• Employer-paid life and disability plans
• Immediate access to 403(b) retirement savings plan featuring both pre-tax and Roth options
• Ability to purchase MBTA passes on a pre-tax, payroll deduction basis up to IRS monthly limit
• Paid time off – holidays, vacation, personal, and sick days
• Free adult dance classes
• Complimentary tickets to select Boston Ballet performances (based on availability)

Salary Pay Range: 65,000 to 70,000 annually. This range is a reasonable, good faith estimate of the expected salary range for this position at this time, based on a wide range of factors including qualifications, experience and training, operational and business needs, and other considerations permitted by law. At Boston Ballet, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range for the role.