JOB SUMMARY:

Costume Fabrication First Hands are skilled costume artisans who support Costume Fabrication Leads and Patternmakers in creating first samples, making pattern revisions, leading production teams, and completing fittings and alterations. As advanced fabricators, First Hands guide stitchers/fabricators in construction techniques and Universal Orlando costume construction standards. Projects may range from dance costumes to suiting to creatures. Some work may require contact with silicone, latex, wool, fur, and other allergens.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Able to guide a small team of fabrication specialists though the construction of a costume from material goods to full completion, including fitting and finishing, on all types of garments while maintaining UO fabrication and consistency standards. Able to maintain professionalism and confidentiality during the fitting process.
• Able to create first samples of never-before-made costumes under the guidance of a lead or draper. Costumes may require using finesse to create complex costumes with spandex/stretch fabrics, silks/synthetic chiffons and satins, furs and fleeces, leather/vinyls, foams, and engineered fabrics. Projects may range from dance costumes to suiting to creatures.
• Able to perform and lead complex repairs and alterations on all types of fabric including but not limited to: silks, chiffons, woven fabrics, non-woven fabrics, stretch/lycra/spandex and specialty materials using standard and computerized industrial sewing, pressing and finishing equipment.
• Able to translate design renderings and technical drawings and assist in developing patterns through draping, flat patterning, and modifying pre-made patterns. Can assist in the creation or adaptation of patterns for park and marquee events with Intermediate understanding of hard copy patterns and introductory understanding of CAD patterns. Possesses basic knowledge and skill in tailoring.
• Ability to extended work in craftsmanship that includes millinery, stoning, foams, bead work, detailed hand stitching, dyeing, fabric painting/distressing, and some adhesive work.
• Able to conduct the layout and cutting of projects. Cut costume pieces with knowledge of grain, knap and fabric saving techniques.
• Completes pressing, laundering and working with various materials with an intermediate understanding of textiles and fibers to help determine best practices.
• Understands and actively participates in Environmental, Health & Safety responsibilities by following established UO policy, procedures, training and team member involvement activities.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION: 

• AA or Bachelor’s degree in theatrical Costume Technology/Construction/Design or similar field such as Fashion/Apparel or Technical Theater/Film strongly preferred.
• Graduate degree in similar fields a plus.

EXPERIENCE: 

• 5 years or more advance experience in professional costume/garment Fabrication with an understanding of live performance arts and costume usage.
• Demonstrated experience and proficiency at operating industrial and domestic sewing machines including but not limited to single needle industrial; industrial zig-zag; overlock; merrow or serger; domestic straight and zig-zag machines; industrial steam irons.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: 

• Some work may require contact with latex, wool, fur, and other allergens.
• Qualifications:
  • Hand sewing
  • Machine sewing
  • Ironing/Pressing
  • Millinery
  • Patternmaking/Draping
  • Knowledge of materials: fabrics, threads, needles
  • Basic Math: Addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, geometry
  • Microsoft Office: Ability to write directions using Word and send updates/correspondence using Outlook

Universal is not accepting unsolicited assistance from search firms for this employment opportunity. All resumes submitted by search firms to any employee at Universal Orlando via-email, the Internet or in any form and/or method without a valid written Statement of Work in place for this position from Universal Orlando HR/Recruitment will be deemed the sole property of Universal Orlando. No fee will be paid in the event the candidate is hired by Universal Orlando as a result of the referral or through other means. 

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