First Hand

JOB TITLE: First Hand

REPORTS TO: Head Draper, Asst. Costume Shop Manager and Costume Shop Supervisor

FLSA STATUS: Full-Time, Hourly, Non-Exempt

COMPENSATION RATE: $29.76 per hour

LOCATION: 170 N. Dearborn Street – Chicago, IL 60601

POSITION SUMMARY:

Goodman Theatre seeks a First Hand to assist Drapers in all phases of costume construction through completed assigned garments and maintenance during the show run, within established production deadlines. This position requires advanced technical sewing skills, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate effectively in a professional costume shop environment. This position is guaranteed pay for available work and/or paid time off in the amount of no less than 1,560 hours per fiscal year.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Perform both hand and machine sewing using a variety of industrial and domestic sewing machines.
• Support all stages of costume creation, including:

  • Fabric preparation and cutting

  • Garment construction, alterations, and repairs

  • Finishing and detailing

  • Routine costume maintenance as needed

• Assist Drapers with fittings, cutting, patterning, stitching, and alterations.
• Advise Stitchers on construction techniques and prepare alteration instructions based on fitting notes.
• Oversee work assigned to Stitchers, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and adherence to quality standards.
• Occasionally lead small teams in alterations or specialized projects.
• Assist Drapers with research, documentation, and organizational tasks as needed.
• Maintain organization of garments, fabrics, notions, tools, and supplies in the costume shop.
• Help support the organization and upkeep of costume stock and related resources.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and efficient workspace.
• Follow directions promptly and accurately as given by the Head Draper, Shop Management, or designated project leaders.

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:

• 2–3 years of professional costume shop experience required; prior experience as a First Hand preferred.

• Strong knowledge of costume history, period garment construction, and materials such as fabrics, interfacings, closures, and notions.

• Advanced hand and machine stitching skills with proficiency in operating commercial and industrial sewing machines.

• Excellent garment construction and finishing techniques with strong attention to detail.

• Proven ability to manage multiple projects efficiently and meet production deadlines.

• Strong organizational, communication, and time management skills.

• Ability to provide leadership and guidance to Stitchers in a collaborative environment.

• Model Behavior and values consistent with The Goodman's Community Agreements and furthering The Goodman's IDEAA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Anti-Racism and Access) goals.

BACKGROUND:

Chicago's theater since 1925, The Goodman is a not-for-profit arts and community organization in the heart of the Loop, distinguished by the excellence and scope of its artistic programming and community engagement. The theater's artistic priorities include new play development (more than 150 world or American premieres), large scale musical theater works and reimagined classics.   

We at The Goodman believe that a diversity of people, ideas and cultures in our organization enriches both the art on stage and our civic engagement. In our workplace, we strive to reflect the communities we serve, and make space in which everyone is empowered to bring their full, authentic self to work. The Goodman values equity, diversity and inclusion and is committed to approaching our work through the practice of anti-racism. Learn more at

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Goodman Theatre offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, paid vacation, sick leave, 401K & Parental Leave.  

The Goodman is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, marital or veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other legally protected status. By dedicating itself to three guiding principles—quality, diversity and community— The Goodman seeks to be the premier cultural organization in Chicago, providing productions and programs that make an essential contribution to the quality of life in our city.  

The Goodman is an inclusive and accessible employer. Successful candidates will have experience working with diverse groups of people and will demonstrate a deep commitment to advancing equity and inclusion at The Goodman.  

The Goodman uses E-Verify to confirm the identity and employment eligibility of all new hires.

HOW TO APPLY:

Qualified individuals are invited to apply by uploading a resume and selecting the "Start Application" button on the right side of the page. On the next page, please attach a cover letter when prompted. No phone calls, please.