Serve as an active member of the IATSE wardrobe crew. For self-produced productions, the Head of Wardrobe functions as a supervisor without an assigned track and may assist with limited quick changes as needed.

Supervise, train, and support the wardrobe run crew and oversee daily wardrobe operations.

Collaborate with the Costume, Wardrobe, and Hair Director, designers, and Stage Management to plan, staff, and execute wardrobe needs for all productions.

Create wardrobe run tracks, schedules, and backstage setups, including quick-change areas and laundry systems.

Participate in technical rehearsals, performances, and day work, ensuring ongoing costume maintenance, repair, and continuity throughout each production.

Maintain wardrobe documentation, stock, equipment, and supplies, including ordering materials as needed.

Support load-in, strike, and costume load-out processes, including the return of rentals.

Manage designated budgets, track expenses, submit receipts, and process payroll in accordance with departmental procedures.

Maintain safe working conditions in compliance with AEA, OSHA, and applicable agreements.

Attend production and department meetings as requested and provide regular updates to the Costume, Wardrobe, and Hair Director.

Participates and actively engages in Collective Bargaining Agreement negotiations.

Be an active participant in the 5th Avenue Theatre’s work towards equity, diversity and inclusion and accountability and becoming an anti-racist organization by participating in all trainings and workshops and actively working implementing learned skills and policies in your department. 

Proven experience supporting production and design processes for large-scale theatrical productions.

Advanced knowledge of costumes, fabrics, historical periods, and wardrobe practices.

Strong experience with show tracking, wardrobe maintenance, laundry systems, stain removal, shoe repair, and quick-change execution.

Proficiency in quick-change choreography, crew track planning, and both home and industrial sewing machines, including basic alterations and repairs.

Demonstrated ability to lead and manage run crews, preferably within a union environment.

Effective communicator with strong written and verbal skills, including the ability to de-escalate conflict and collaborate across departments.

Ability to communicate respectfully and inclusively about body types, hair textures, skin tones, and gender identities.

Demonstrated creative judgment, attention to detail, and strong problem-solving skills.

Ability to lead teams, delegate effectively, manage multiple priorities, and adapt quickly to changing production demands.

Professional, discreet, and capable of maintaining confidentiality.

Familiarity with and ability to comply with Actors’ Equity Association (AEA) and OSHA safety requirements.

Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and online meeting platforms such as Zoom.

An equivalent combination of education and experience: an undergraduate degree in theatre with a focus on costumes plus 1–2 years of wardrobe/run crew experience, or a minimum of five years of professional wardrobe or dressing experience. 

Ability to perform administrative tasks using a computer, such as creating and reviewing documents, entering data, and communicating electronically. This may involve sitting at a workstation for extended periods and can be done using a keyboard, mouse, or assistive technology.   

Ability to communicate in person with colleagues across a multi-level facility (including offices, theater, basement, alley, and workshop spaces). This may involve moving between spaces with varied lighting and sound, or asking others to come to a central office location as needed.   

Ability to safely use tools requiring manual dexterity and fine motor control, and to lift, pull, push, and carry up to 25 pounds with or without assistance. This work may involve climbing stairs and sitting or standing for extended periods.  

Ability to work in environments that may include heat, humidity, theatrical haze, costume chemicals (e.g., detergents, cleaners), and backstage odors.

The 5th Avenue Theatre is located in the historic Skinner Building and is non-ADA compliant. This role must be able to navigate the backstage, basement, alleyway and stage door areas without significant assistance.