Stitcher in Minneapolis, Minnesota at Guthrie Theater

Department: Production - Costumes

Reports to: Associate Costume Director

Compensation: $31.05 per hour

Benefits: Benefits Eligible

Typical Schedule: Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. This position works 40 hours per week and is guaranteed a minimum of 44 work weeks per fiscal (September 1- August 31) year.

This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement with IATSE Local 13.

The Guthrie is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to building an equitable environment that finds strength in diversity of identity, experience and perspective. We are dedicated to hiring and developing talented teams that are inclusive and welcoming to individuals with different backgrounds, thoughts, and abilities. Applicants from populations underrepresented in the theater field are strongly encouraged to apply.

Position Summary

The Stitcher is responsible for the construction of costumes. All employees are expected to center, model and champion the Guthrie’s core values of Artistic Excellence; Community; Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility; and Fiscal Responsibility.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

1. Costume Construction

• Build and alter costumes in collaboration with assigned work team.
• Communicate with the Draper/Tailor and First Hand to receive stitching assignments.
• Construct costumes for fittings.
• Collaborate with the costume team regarding preferred stitching techniques.
• Create mock-ups.
• Make necessary corrections to costumes after fittings.
• Finish and press garments.
• Complete tech notes as assigned.
• Work efficiently and with a consciousness of deadlines.
• Maintain expected levels of artisanship and artistic excellence.

2. Operations

• Collaborate with management on departmental initiatives.
• Cooperate, collaborate, and share knowledge and resources with other work teams, including occasionally instructing Overhire staff.
• Assist co-workers in maintaining costume workroom and equipment.

Essential Knowledge and Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience as a dressmaker or tailor or a combination of equivalent experience and training.
• Skill in operation of industrial sewing machine and serger.
• High level of expertise in garment construction.
• Costume construction and pressing skills.
• Knowledge of various fabric properties to determine appropriate sewing techniques.
• Knowledge of garment construction techniques and terminology for clear communication with team.
• Skilled in identifying period garments and accessories.
• Creative problem-solving skills.
• Can listen to and follow detailed directions.
• Communicates effectively and persuasively in oral communication on an interpersonal or group level.
• Can form teams with artists and co-workers who possess a variety of personal and working styles.
• Strong commitment to safety and ergonomics in the workplace.
• Can lift 20 lbs. continuously throughout an assigned shift.
• Can perform sustained fine-motor manual work while committed to safety and ergonomics in the workplace.
• Experience with and commitment to working with individuals and teams that exemplify diversity of identity, experience, and perspective, including but not limited to race, color, gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, family and/or marital status, creed, religion, ancestry, disability, national origin, sexual orientation or sexual identity, veteran status, genetic information, pregnancy, body size/type, status with regard to public assistance or any other basis protected by federal, state or local law.