Firsthand

The First Hand is a Full-Time Seasonal, non-exempt position that will work 40+ weeks per year depending upon date of hire.
The First Hand assists the Draper with refurbishing, cutting, sample making, fitting, and constructing costumes for all BB productions, events, and photo or video shoots.

The Boston Ballet Costume Shop is a high volume, multi project workplace, where team members must be able to perform at a high standard of professional quality workmanship, with an ability to adapt to meet multiple deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Draper in instructing and supervising team members (stitchers, interns, and volunteers) in ballet costume construction and alteration techniques
• Assist the Draper in fittings; take thorough and accurate notes at each fitting, pinning alterations
• Collaborate with Draper on completing the team’s assigned work within the season timelines
• Pre-wash fabrics, mark, and cut for costume and sample construction; stitching as needed
• Prep, measure, and refurbish costumes prior to and after fittings as instructed
• Complete all tasks, alterations, samples, and fitting prep as instructed and on schedule
• Communicate with Draper and problem solve together to achieve team goals
• Assist Draper in determining fabric yardage and supplies
• Monitor the use of shop supplies and inform Workroom Coordinator when items need to be replenished via google doc spreadsheet
• Track and maintain team paperwork to document each assigned project
• Maintain a clean and organized workspace
• Attend weekly staff meetings
• Other job-related assignments as needed
• Some evening and weekend hours may be required

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in related field preferred or comparable professional experience
• 3-5 years of experience in a professional costume shop setting
• Excellent organizational and interpersonal communication skills
• Ability to work independently and with a team
• Ability to work effectively under pressure
• Strong knowledge of costume construction methods – Experience cutting complex garments
• Advanced sewing skills; Ability to stitch at a fast, accurate pace
• Working knowledge of, and experience with equipment used in a professional costume shop setting (industrial sewing machines, irons) and ability to perform maintenance on these machines
• Experience working with stretch knits as well as wovens
• Exceptional project management skills and awareness of workflow
• Ability to work in a costume shop environment shared with others

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www.bostonballet.org/

(617) 456-6395