Student-Centric Costume Designer & Shop Mentor

ADP, Inc.; Cambridge (MA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 70,000; Part time

Job summary

Buckingham Browne & Nichols School seeks a part-time, temporary Costume Designer/Costume Shop Manager to collaborate with the theater production team from October 2026 through mid-June 2027.

The role involves artistic design, technical sewing, and mentoring student build/run crews, with duties spanning fittings, fittings, rehearsals, and the production strike. A passion for storytelling and classroom mentorship is essential.

Qualifications

• Experience designing costumes for theatrical productions across a range of periods and styles.
• Strong sewing skills, including hand and machine sewing, pattern reading and creation.
• Ability to mentor student costume build/run crews (6–8 students).

Responsibilities

• Mentor student costume build and run crews throughout the production process.
• Collaborate with Theater Director to integrate costume designs with artistic vision and technical requirements.
• Build, sew, source, and alter costume elements within the budget.
• Plan and supervise costume fittings and alterations for performance readiness.
• Attend dress rehearsals and performances to manage costume operations and changes.
• Lead the costume strike, returning and storing costume pieces and leaving the shop in order.
• Participate in production meetings with Director and school staff.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Skills

Costume design

Sewing/garment construction

Mentoring students

Budget management

Education

Bachelor's degree preferred

Tools

Pattern drafting

Job description

Buckingham Browne & Nichols School seeks a part-time, temporary Costume Designer/Costume Shop Manager to collaborate with the theater production team from October 2026 through mid-June 2027.

The role involves artistic design, technical sewing, and mentoring student build/run crews, with duties spanning fittings, fittings, rehearsals, and the production strike. A passion for storytelling and classroom mentorship is essential.