Department of Theatre Costume Shop Supervisor

The Costume Shop Supervisor is a full time 12 month position that is integral to the functioning of the costume area of the Department of Theatre. As detailed below, the shop supervisor works on the builds of all season shows, supervises students working in the shop, maintains the costume stock, and handles costume rentals to outside groups. The position also covers the primary administrative duties of the shop itself including managing budgets and purchasing, facilitating maintenance of shop equipment, and scheduling of student workers. In addition, there are potential opportunities to design for the UMD Theatre season.

Position begins July 1, 2026 and is ongoing

Bargaining unit summary:
Bargaining unit consideration begins on 4/01/2026 and ends on 04/07/2026
Salary range: $46,500 - $52,400, commensurate with experience
Shift and hours of work: 40 hours per week; generally 9am-5pm M-F, but with some flexibility to accommodate for production schedule when needed.
Overtime or consecutive Sunday work are NOT conditions of employment.

Visa Language: Please note, this position is not eligible for H-1B or Green Card sponsorship. This position does not offer a STEM OPT training program.

Job Duties:

• Administrative (20%)
  Maintain shop equipment
  Develop, manage, and monitor the costume shop budget, including forecasting, tracking expenditures, and ensuring fiscal responsibility
  Oversee purchasing and procurement activities in accordance with University policies and procedures
  Oversee the management and maintenance of shop equipment, and physical resources
  
• Production / Show Builds (40%)
  Ensure production needs are met through effective planning, prioritization, and use of available resources
  Meet with the practicum instructor to update the worklists for shows
  Meet with designers to see what is required for their shows
  Act as Cutter/Draper (patterning and cutting out costumes)
  Construct costumes
  Attend and help with fittings
  Attend regular production meetings and attend rehearsals as needed throughout the process to support designers
  
• Supervising the work of others (30%)
  Hire, train, and supervise work/study students
  Supervise practicum shop hours for upper-level costume students
  Supervise student designers in the shop
  Support the costume practicum instructor and students during practicum class meetings
  
• Managing Costume Stock and Rentals (10%)
  Manage costume rental operations, including external partnerships and tracking of related activity
  Repair and maintain costume stock
  Receive and process donations to the costume shop

Required Qualifications:

• Some college training in theater or experience as a technician

Preferred Qualifications:

• Undergraduate and/or advanced degree or training in theatre, costume design, costume technology, or a related field
• Demonstrated experience with costume construction as detailed above in job duties
• Experience supporting theatrical productions, including fittings, alterations, and working with designers and directors
• Familiarity with costume shop operations, including workflow coordination, stock management, and rental systems
• Experience supervising or directing the work of others
• Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Knowledge of textiles, fabric selection, dyeing techniques, and costume maintenance practices
• Demonstrated experience in operations, program coordination, or production management and to manage multiple priorities and complex workflows
• Experience managing budgets, purchasing, or financial tracking
• Ability to troubleshoot technical costume or production challenges and provide guidance to others
• Experience working in a higher education or student focused environment
  

Pay Range: $46,500 - $52,400 annually; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Civil-Service & Non-Faculty Labor Represented Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

For a completed application, please include:

1. Resume/CV: Please highlight relevant coursework, projects, experience, etc.
2. Cover Letter: A brief note explaining your interest and your relevant technical skills.

This position will remain open until filled.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

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