Dye & Breakdown Intern

Glyndebourne Productions Ltd

Lewes

On-site

GBP 12,000 - 21,000

Part time

4 days ago

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Benefits offered by this job

Free minibus to Lewes Station and Ring

Free on-site parking

Free Pilates & Zumba classes

Corporate Gym memberships

Onsite Physiotherapist

Cycle to Work scheme

Discount at Glyndebourne shop

Job summary

Glyndebourne Productions Ltd is seeking a part-time Dye & Breakdown Intern to join the Dye Room on a fixed-term contract from February to August 2027. You will gain hands-on training in dyeing, ageing, and distressing fabrics, while learning essential safety practices and collaborating with designers and other teams.

You will handle dyes and finishes using chemical and botanical methods, maintaining records and preparing pieces for interview-ready showpieces under supervision.

Qualifications

A relevant qualification (BTEC, HND or Degree) in Art, Fashion, Costume or Textiles.
An understanding of colour theory and art techniques.
Proven interest in printing, painting and fabric dyeing.
Basic knowledge of dyes, paints and sprays with a willingness to undertake further training as required.
Ability to use IT devices and work with established departmental systems in Google suites.

Responsibilities

Be open to training, motivated and willing to learn new skills.
Develop knowledge of dye garden plants and assist with small tasks.
Understand and comply with H&S legislation relevant to dye room materials and environment.
Ensure good housekeeping and maintain equipment.
Work towards high standards for each task as expected from a professional dye artist.
Keep accurate records of dye recipes or processes used for tasks.

Skills

Dyeing techniques

Color theory

Collaboration with designers

Willingness to learn

Chemicals safety awareness

Education

Art/Textiles qualification

Tools

Google Workspace

Job description

We are currently recruiting for a part-time Dye & Breakdown Intern to join our Dye Room on a part-time, fixed-term contract from February - August 2027. You will undertake on the job training for the role of a Dye and Breakdown Artist and will gain an understanding of Dye Room Health and Safety requirements. Under supervision, you will learn essential techniques for successful dyeing, painting, ageing and distressing of fabrics and costume items. You will learn how to liaise with and work collaboratively with designers and other departments and teams. You will complete dye and breakdown tasks using both chemical and botanical methods to create examples of work that can be used for interview purposes. This role involves handling chemicals and working with gas and open flames. It also requires the safe handling and movement of heavy textiles, costumes, garment rails, and other supplies. The successful candidate will be required to undertake relevant training and comply with all health and safety procedures, including safe manual handling practices. Reasonable adjustments will be considered where appropriate.

Key Tasks and Responsibilities

To be open to training, to be motivated and willing to learn new skills.
To develop knowledge of dye garden plants and to assist with small tasks if required.
To understand and comply fully with H&S legislation relevant to all dye room materials, equipment and the general working environment.
To ensure good housekeeping practice is implemented at all times, and that all equipment is maintained to a good standard.
To work towards achieving the highest standards for each task as would be expected from a professional dye artist.
To keep accurate and up to date records of dye recipes or processes used for all tasks and to assist the mentor with recording of information for relevant dye room bibles.
To compile a training log on a regular basis for review at the end of the Internship.
To complete a final show piece task at the end of training to highlight acquired skills for future use in Interview
To be aware of stock levels and report back to the line manager in good time when stock is running low.
To work in a cooperative and collaborative manner with all staff within and outside of all production areas.
To report any machine or equipment failure to the line manager.
To demonstrate a flexible approach to duties, attending technical rehearsals as required.
To perform all other reasonable duties as assigned by the Dye Room Supervisor.

Qualifications & Requirements

A relevant qualification (BTEC, HND or Degree) in Art, Fashion, Costume or Textiles and / or extensive recognised industry experience in a similar role.
An understanding of colour theory and art techniques.
Proven interest in printing, painting and fabric dyeing.
Basic knowledge of dyes, paints and sprays with a willingness to undertake further training as required.
Ability to use IT devices and work with established departmental systems in Google suites.

Desirable

An understanding of theatre costume design.
Knowledge of historical costume.
Knowledge of Botanical dye techniques.
Basic knowledge of gardening skills.

About Glyndebourne

The Glyndebourne Festival (running from May to August), features a programme of six operas in its 1,200-seat opera house, attracting audiences from around the world. The Autumn Season (October to December) extends Glyndebourne's reach, offering audiences the opportunity to experience fresh perspectives and new works in a dynamic and exploratory setting. Together, the Festival and Autumn Season welcome over 125,000 attendees annually, with many more engaging through online streaming and other digital platforms.

Remaining financially independent since its inception, Glyndebourne is a registered charity that relies on box office income, memberships, and donations to fund its operations. Committed to artistic excellence, audience development, and accessibility, Glyndebourne continues to expand the reach and appreciation of opera for all.

New Road, Ringmer, BN8 5UU

Job Details

The rate of pay is £13.25 per hour. The contractual hours of work are 30 hours per week, worked across 5 days Monday-Sunday. However, you may be required to work additional hours to meet the demands of the role. This is fixed-term contract from February - August 2027 We offer 6.6 weeks/ 33 days holiday per annum, pro rata, inclusive of Bank Holidays. We can offer a beautiful working environment, and the chance to see world-class opera. For those without their own transport we have a free minibus service to and from Lewes railway station. We also offer: