The 5th Avenue Theatre
Seattle, WA
US

DESCRIPTION

Company Overview:

Musicals are what we do, and The 5th Avenue Theatre is one of America's leading musical theaters.

As a nonprofit company and our region's largest performing arts employer, we spread the joy of great musicals, enrich the community with this art form, and give the Pacific Northwest a front-row seat to original powerhouse productions that light up marquees and audiences all the way to Broadway. Through our nationally acclaimed education programs, we reach more than 75,000 young people with programs designed to develop new musicals and ensure the next generation of great musical storytelling.

We share a core belief that Musical Theatre is critical to uplifting and reflecting the humanity around us, and that The 5th Avenue is a vital resource for Seattle, Downtown, and The Pacific Northwest. Our diversity of people and talents are unified behind these truths, working hard to make great art and sustain a great work culture of belonging & inclusion.

Applications from those who have been traditionally underrepresented in the theatrical industry are strongly encouraged. We are striving for our staff to be inclusive of a diverse and vibrant community that represents multiple identities, perspectives & influences.

Position: Assistant Head of Wardrobe
Department: Production
Reports to: Head of Wardrobe
FLSA Classification: Hourly; guaranteed minimum 40 hour weeks per year vary depending on the number of shows performed but average 40 weeks in a typical year.

Compensation: The base pay rate is set by the current IATSE Local 887 CBA contract rate, which will be $41.89 at the start of the 24-25 season.

Benefits: Benefits are provided through Local 887 according to the terms of the collective bargaining agreement and include deferred comp, retirement and health.

Work Locations: Downtown Seattle. The 5th Avenue Theatre and administrative office located within Skinner Building (1326 5th Avenue, Suite 735).

Position Summary:
The Assistant Head of Wardrobe, in close coordination with the Costume, Wardrobe and Hair Director and the Head of Wardrobe, is primarily responsible for helping supervise the wardrobe crew and for helping execute the tracking, laundry, maintenance and running of the wardrobe department for all main stage productions at the 5th Avenue Theatre and for maintaining the artistic integrity and vision of the designers and creative team and the 5th Avenue Theatre. This position is represented by IATSE, Local No. 887.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

• Actively participate in the IATSE wardrobe crew and help supervise run crews and day work crews as needed.
• Communicate effectively with the design team to assess wardrobe needs for productions.
• Maintain communication with the Costume, Wardrobe, and Hair Director to plan and problem-solve wardrobe requirements.
• Assist in setting up and facilitating show laundry systems and schedules in collaboration with the Costume and Wardrobe Assistant.
• Collaborate with the Wardrobe Head to create and assign dressing tracks for the department.
• Attend meetings with key production stakeholders to address backstage needs.
• Serve as a liaison between dressers, Wardrobe Head, and actors, facilitating information dissemination.
• Prepare and label quick-change areas and assist with costume maintenance during tech and performances.
• Help supervise and train the IATSE wardrobe crew.
• Organize and update wardrobe paperwork, including photographic documentation, in collaboration with the costume shop and design assistant.
• Maintain wardrobe stock, equipment, and supplies.
• Assist in coordinating costume load-outs for productions.
• Uphold safe working conditions per AEA, OSHA, and Infectious Disease Protocols.
• Attend and participate in production meetings, department meetings, and show-specific costume meetings as requested.
• Contribute actively to the 5th Avenue Theatre’s initiatives for equity, diversity, and inclusion, and anti-racism efforts by attending all related trainings and workshops.

Essential knowledge and Qualifications:

• Equivalent combination of an undergraduate degree in theatre (Costumes focus) and 1-2 years of wardrobe/run crew experience, or 5 years of dressing/wardrobe run crew experience.
• Experience in production and design processes for large-scale productions.
• Advanced knowledge of costumes, fabrics, periods, cleaning, and maintenance.
• Proficiency in show tracking, wardrobe needs, maintenance, stain removal, shoe repair, and laundry.
• Skilled in quick-change choreography and crew track planning.
• Proficient with home and industrial sewing machines and basic repairs.
• Ability to de-escalate conflict through clear communication.
• Understanding of respectful, equitable, and inclusive language regarding body types, hair types, skin tones, and gender.
• Previous experience on run crews, preferably in a union environment.
• Demonstrated creative judgment, problem-solving skills, and attention to detail.
• Strong leadership, delegation, and conflict resolution abilities across departments.
• Ability to meet deadlines, adapt to changing priorities, and manage multiple projects concurrently.
• Excellent interpersonal skills to work with diverse performers, crew members, and personalities.
• Foster a healthy, collaborative work environment with professional courtesy and discretion.
• Familiarity with Actors Equity rules, OSHA regulations, and flexible scheduling for theatre productions.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and online meeting platforms like Zoom.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift, move, push, pull 20-35 lbs. occasionally, alone or with assistance; must be able to push and pull large gondolas, rolling racks and boxes of costumes from one location to another usually with assistance
• Ability to stand and work on foot, and be mobile including climbing stairs and ladders as needed
• Ability to sit for long periods of time for tasks including machinery and computer operation
• Ability to manage long periods of dexterous work like sewing, pinning, cutting, and painting
• Seeing and hearing are essential to the success of this position

Additional Benefits:

• Reduced price parking available near the theatre
• 2 comp tickets per show and reduced cost for additional tickets

Additional Requirements:
Employment is contingent upon successful completion of background and reference checks.

SALARY

$41.89 – $41.89 per hour

UNION

IATSE Local 887

APPLY ONLINE

https://www.5thavenue.org/about/careers/current-openings/assistant-head-of-wardrobe/

APPLY BY EMAIL

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