First Hand

SUMMARY

The First Hand is responsible for working with the Cutter/Draper and Costume Shop staff in the construction of new costumes and the preparation of stock/rental costumes for use in productions. Also responsible for maintaining Geva’s core values of artistic courage, sustainability, excellence, boundless hospitality, empathy, and anti-racism and inclusion.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Costume Fitting & Construction Process

• Complete all projects assigned by Costume Shop Supervisor in an efficient, safe, and timely manner while maintaining the integrity of Designer’s vision.
• Prepare work for stitchers.
• Assist Cutter/Draper in fittings, cutting, pattern making, stitching, and alterations for all assigned pieces.
• Complete hand and finish work as assigned.
• Assist Cutter/Draper to determine best construction techniques.
• Practice safe and appropriate use of common chemical-based products found in costume shop, including but not limited to: dye, spray paint, barge, contact cement, spray adhesives, etc.
• With Costume Shop Supervisor, research period, styles, and techniques necessary to complete costume pieces to Designer’s specifications.

Administration

• Participate in end-of-day shop cleaning and organization projects as needed.
• Participate in costume rentals or external costume construction as needed.
• Work collaboratively with other departments and co-workers to archive information about each production for future reference.

QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS

Required

• Ability to work collaboratively and efficiently with a wide variety of co-workers at different levels of skill and knowledge.
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience in theatrical costume construction techniques and materials.
• Demonstrated working knowledge of fabric types and their uses.
• Ability to prioritize multiple projects at once.
• Ability to delegate work as needed.
• Capacity to solve problems and engage in creative thinking about challenges
• Exhibit empathy, kindness, diplomacy, and humor in the workplace.

Desired

• Knowledge of costume history.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS FOR ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs, crouch, twist, turn, bend, stoop, stand and sit for extended periods of time, perform tasks involving repetitive motion (i.e. hand sewing, machine sewing, cutting, pressing, etc.)

The above statements are not intended to encompass all functions and qualifications of the position, but are intended to provide a general framework of the requirements of the position. Employee may be required to perform other functions not specifically addressed in this job description.

Compensation starts at $18.25/hr.

The above statements are not intended to encompass all functions and qualifications of the position but are intended to provide a general framework of the requirements of the position. Employee may be required to perform other functions not specifically addressed in this job description.