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Job Description / Duties

The Senior Cutter’s duties shall include but not be limited to the coordination of cutting and construction. They are responsible for fabricating patterns, research, cutting, fitting, building and supervision of the construction of costumes from specific designs and/or sketches provided by the Costume Designer or designate. The Senior Cutter determines yardage and trims for costumes and will assist in selecting materials. They are responsible and involved in alterations of pulled and purchased costumes when required. They are responsible for maintaining construction techniques and finishing standards as deemed appropriate by the Head of Wardrobe.

Qualifications / Required Skills

Skills & Responsibilities
• Pattern drafting, flat patterning, and draping based on designer sketches and specifications
• Construct garments using advanced sewing and garment construction skills, including period and specialty costumes
• Execute accurate and efficient costume fittings and alterations
• Estimate yardage and identify appropriate fabrics and trims to support design and budget requirements
• Translate design drawings into accurate patterns and construction plans with attention to detail
• Apply a wide range of construction techniques and finishing methods to meet production standards
• Oversee the assembly and construction of costumes to ensure consistency and quality
• Support team members in executing complex builds and alterations
• Maintain and organize cutting and sewing workspaces to support efficiency and safety
• Participate in fittings and communicate effectively with performers and designers
• Contribute to costume rehearsal notes, costume maintenance, and provide technical run support
• 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
• 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 as a cutter in theatrical wardrobe or costume construction
• Post-secondary training in costume technology, fashion design, theatre production, or equivalent professional experience
• Demonstrated expertise in pattern drafting, draping, and costume fitting
• Experience constructing garments for a range of body types and period styles
• Proficiency in costume alterations and construction techniques
• 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

Additional Information

This position is a seasonal contract 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.

Benefits include:
• 5% in employer RRSP contributions
• 5% vacation pay
• 4% in lieu of benefits
• Access to a health and welfare fund paid for by Pacific Opera and administered by IATSE Local 168
• Guaranteed Minimum Hours for the season: 700

The typical work week is Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 5:00pm. The positions require some evening and weekend work, and hours will vary depending on production schedules.
- Carpentry, 8:00am-4:30pm
- Wardrobe, 8:30am-5:00pm
- Props, 8:30am-5:00pm
- Paint, 8:00am – 4:30pm Wednesday - Sunday

Production Dates:
Show 1 - (The Turn of the Screw)
Wardrobe Source/Build: Sept 15 – Oct 17, 2025 (5 wks)
Notes as called: Oct 18 – 22, 2025 (1 wk)

Show 2 - (Tosca)
Wardrobe Source/Build: Jan 19 – Feb 13, 2026 (4 wks)
Notes as called: Feb 14 – 18, 2026 (1 wk)

Show 3 - (Orpheus & Eurydice)
Wardrobe Source/Build: March 16 – April 17, 2026 (5 wks)
Notes as called: April 18 – 22, 2026 (1 wk)
*Subject to Change
*Holiday Shop Closure: Sat Dec 20 – Sun Dec 28, 2025 & Thurs Jan 1, 2026

Salary: $34.41 + benefits, in accordance with IATSE Local 168 collective agreement with Pacific Opera Victoria

Contact Information

For more details please visit our website: https://pacificopera.ca/about-us/careers-auditions/ 

Please apply with a cover letter and resume to: jobs@pacificopera.ca 

Applications will be reviewed as received.

Employer Profile

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