Costume Shop Lead Technician – Performing Arts

About the role

The Costume Shop Lead Technician supports the faculty costume designer by overseeing daily operations of the university costume shop. This full‑time, on‑campus position combines leadership, technical expertise, and hands‑on instruction for students involved in theatrical productions.

Key responsibilities

• Lead, coordinate, and plan day‑to‑day activities of the costume shop, including equipment, workspaces, and inventory.
• Demonstrate sewing techniques and guide laboratory‑students in costume construction.
• Supervise costume shop staff, student assistants, and laboratory students, ensuring safety and quality standards.
• Maintain accurate records of shop usage, inventory, and production schedules.
• Support classroom instruction with live demonstrations of shop processes.

Required profile

• Clear oral and written communication skills.
• Strong organizational and scheduling abilities.
• Capacity to create and maintain program records and provide data for strategic planning.
• Research skills to develop comprehensive knowledge of costume design.
• Ability to work collaboratively with faculty and provide training to students.

Required skills

• Sewing techniques
• Costume construction
• Machine operation
• Inventory management

What we offer

• Salary range up to $4,241 – $4,590 per month (Steps 1‑5), with potential up to $6,177 per month.
• Full‑time 11/12 pay plan with July off.
• Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, CalPERS retirement, paid holidays and vacation.
• Opportunities for professional development within a vibrant performing‑arts environment.