Costume Craftsperson - Steppenwolf Theatre

STEPPENWOLF THEATRE COMPANY



For over 40 years, Steppenwolf Theatre Company has been a cultural leader in Chicago and model for theatre companies in the United States and around the world. Formed by a collective of actors in 1976, the ensemble represents a remarkable cross-section of actors, directors, stage managers and playwrights. Steppenwolf’s artistic ambitions are made possible by its incredible workforce of individuals, who help create a culture of inclusivity, collaboration, and accountability. To that end, we attempt to use an anti-oppressive and anti-racist lens in our roles and everyday decision-making. Join us in this ongoing process, as we navigate, together, our complex world.



The Costume Craftsperson manages the creation, alteration, and maintenance of specialty costume pieces and accessories as designed by the Costume Designer. Excecutes modification of materials and garments as designed through dye, paint, and aging processes. This position reports to the Costume Director and collaborates closely with the rest of the Costume Shop team. This position generally works M-F from 9am-5pm, but also requires occasional weekend or evening hours in support of the production process. The Steppenwolf Costume Shop functions under the shared values of curiosity, communication, mutual respect and excellence.



Responsibilities:

• Interpret and implement costume crafts projects as designed by the Costume Designer. These items may include jewelry, footwear, masks, belts, hats and purses.

• Create mock-ups and prototypes and fit on actors as needed.

• Complete alterations on craft items as necessary, incorporating Costume Designer feedback.

• Dye, paint and distress fabric and garments.

• Work with Draper & Costume Director to set and meet timelines for projects.

• Identify and maintain craft supplies and equipment.

• Use appropriate safety equipment and procedures, including MSDS and proper ventilation.

• Active participation as a team member to improve and innovate costume shop systems and procedures.

• Perform other duties as assigned by Costume Director when not actively in production. These items may include: Sourcing, shopping and returns, costume storage organization and restock, garment prep for fittings or load out, and updating show paperwork.

• Ability and commitment to working with diverse groups in terms of gender expression, race, sexual orientation, religion, ability, age, class, and immigrant status.

• Commitment to understanding issues of body diversity and to leading a body neutral costume shop.



Basic Qualifications:



• Distressing techniques for fabric and garments.

• Comfort modifying and altering shoes, jewelry, belts, and hats.

• Familiarity with use of a dye vat and various hand painting techniques.

• Comfortable using basic power tools.

• Familiarity with MS Office and Google Drive.

• Experience working with specialty fasteners including rivets, snaps, buckles, studs, grommets and eyelets.

• Experience with computer layout and printing for heat transfers.

• Knowledge of respirator use and basic safety procedures including MSDS, and ventilation requirements of products.

• Good interpersonal and communication skills.

• Excellent organizational skills and time management.

• Interest in building new skills and working with a variety of designers and artists.

• Adaptable and responsive to changes in a fast-paced environment.



Preferred Qualifications:

• Specialization in a specific area of costume crafts, such as millinery, metal work, thermoplastics, leather, etc.

• Experience or interest in costume administration or assisting.

• Knowledge of costume history.

• Experience working within a budget and handling receipts.



Compensation:

Salary range: $45,168 to $49,684 with excellent benefit package for full time employees including Medical, Dental, Vision, Critical Illness and Hospital Indemnity insurance, short-term and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, vacation pay, paid sick time, personal days, Ventra transit benefit program, employee assistance program and 401(k) matching retirement program.



How to apply:

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, professional resume and three references through the link provided

https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/jobs/ViewJobDetails?job=85090&clientkey=FFA63F8D7510DAA0AAC6BCEC71DBE021



NO PHONE CALLS OR EMAILS PLEASE



About Steppenwolf:

Steppenwolf Theatre Company is the nation’s premier ensemble theater. Steppenwolf produces hundreds of performances and events annually in its three spaces: the 515-seat Downstairs Theatre, the 400-seat Ensemble Theatre and the 80-seat 1700 Theatre. Artistic programming includes a five play season; a two-play Steppenwolf for Young Adults season; Visiting Company engagements; and LookOut, a multigenre performances series. Education initiatives include the nationally recognized work of Steppenwolf for Young Adults, which engages 15,000 participants annually from Chicago’s diverse communities. While firmly grounded in the Chicago community, nearly 40 original Steppenwolf productions have enjoyed success both nationally and internationally, including Broadway, Off-Broadway, London, Sydney, Galway and Dublin. Audrey Francis and Glenn Davis are the Artistic Directors and E. Brooke Flanagan is the Executive Director. For additional information, visit steppenwolf.org, facebook.com/steppenwolftheatre, twitter.com/steppenwolfthtr and instagram.com/steppenwolfthtr.

Steppenwolf Mission:

Steppenwolf Theatre Company strives to create thrilling, courageous, and provocative art in a thoughtful and inclusive environment. We succeed when we disrupt your routine with experiences that spark curiosity, empathy and joy. We invite you to join our ensemble as we navigate, together, our complex world.

Steppenwolf Core Values:

Equity + Inclusion

Integrity + Curiosity

Courage + Collaboration

Accountability + Leadership

Steppenwolf Theatre Company is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. We provide equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Steppenwolf complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

We strongly encourage applications from people of color and members of underrepresented groups.


Salary: Salary range: $45,168 to $49,684