Lead Wardrobe
/Organization:
Pacific Opera Victoria
Deadline:
Jun. 30, 2025
Organization Description:
Pacific Opera Victoria is one of the most influential professional opera companies in Canada. Our vision is for a world in which opera enriches the lives of everyone. Our mission is to create distinctive and inclusive opera experiences which inspire and engage artists and audiences. We deliver our mission with integrity and uncompromising adherence to our values: Quality, Leadership, Innovation, Collaboration, Learning, Inclusivity and Stewardship.
Pacific Opera Victoria identifies Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Reconciliation among its Core Values and encourages applications from candidates of diverse backgrounds.
For more information about Pacific Opera, please visit our website www.pacificopera.ca
Website:
Job Description:
Pacific Opera Victoria is currently accepting applications for seasonal production positions for the 2025-2026 season. These positions are seasonal contracts running from July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026 with the Pacific Opera shop typically operating from July to May. All Opera Shop production staff work under the jurisdiction of IATSE Local 168.
The duties of the Lead Wardrobe shall include, but not be limited to the procurement and manufacture of all costumes and accessories without direct supervision, and the maintenance of construction and finishing standards as deemed appropriate by the Head of Wardrobe. They shall have advanced sewing skills and a working knowledge of wardrobe equipment and tools plus must also be able to cut, sew, alter and fit costumes, distress fabrics, maintain, launder, and finish wardrobe pieces. They shall also accomplish buying, shopping and returns, assist with research and be able to assume all responsibilities in the absence of the Head Wardrobe.
Responsibilities:
• Perform advanced sewing and costume construction using both hand and machine techniques
• Alter, repair and fit costumes across a range of period and contemporary styles with precision and care
• Apply fabric distressing, finishing, and costume breakdown techniques to meet design requirements
• Draft patterns, drape garments, and execute costume cutting tasks as needed
• Conduct shopping, rentals, and returns for costume items
• Maintain costume pieces as needed (laundering, steaming, pressing, and mending)
• Document costume changes, alterations, and maintenance schedules
• Assist the Head Wardrobe with costume research and sourcing
• Assist with fitting room protocols and support backstage costume change planning and logistics
• Contribute to wardrobe pack, load-in, load out, and onstage wardrobe notes
• Operate and maintain wardrobe tools and equipment safely and effectively
• Attend production and company meetings, fittings, and technical rehearsals as required
• Support other production departments as needed, contributing to cross-departmental collaboration, including wigs, makeup and stage management
• Ensure a safe, clean, and organized work environment in compliance with safety standards
• Demonstrate problem-solving and adaptability in a fast-paced production environment
• Promote and uphold a respectful, inclusive, and professional workplace
• Communicate clearly, respectfully, and professionally with designers, team members and production staff
Qualifications:
• Minimum 3 years of professional experience in theatrical wardrobe or costume construction
• Post-secondary training in costume technology, fashion design, theatre production, or equivalent professional experience
• Demonstrated skill in sewing, alterations, and costume maintenance
• Working knowledge of wardrobe tools, machines, and safe handling practices
• Experience working in unionized and collaborative production environments an asset
• Strong knowledge of industry safety practices
• Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and time management skills
• Ability to work independently, meet tight deadlines, and adapt to changing priorities
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Willingness to work evenings and weekends as required
• Valid Class 5 BC driver’s license (asset)
• First Aid certification (asset)
• Physically able to lift up to 50 lbs., use stairs, and operate wardrobe equipment
How to Apply:
Please apply with a cover letter and resume to: jobs@pacificopera.ca
Applications will be reviewed as received.
Remuneration:
$35.99+ benefits, in accordance with IATSE Local 168 collective agreement with Pacific Opera Victoria.
Contact Name: Christopher Sibbald
Contact Email: jobs@pacificopera.ca
