What are the responsibilities and job description for the Wardrobe Specialist (Costumer) position at Alamo Trust, Inc?
Position Description:
The Alamo is looking for a Wardrobe Specialist (Costumer) to join the Living History and Public Programs department.
POSITION SCOPE
The Alamo Living History Wardrobe Specialist provides a variety of functions in the organization. While the position is focused on clothing, the Wardrobe Specialist will provide assistance for Alamo Living History-related events, as well as learning and assisting in daily programming when needed. Living Historians provide Alamo visitors with historical interpretation of the site and its over 300 years of history primarily through third-person interpretation with a focus on the material culture of the people who have inhabited and/or had an impact on the site.
Candidates for the position are required to successfully complete a training program to become knowledgeable and comfortable with the Alamos history, as well as interpretation for visitors. Candidates should be experts in all aspects regarding the creation and repair of period clothing, have a strong background in research, and superb organizational and interpersonal skills and be prepared to show examples of past work.
DUTIES, RESPONSIBILITIES & ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Build, maintain and document a functional daily wardrobe for Living History staff and volunteers.
Supervise and track all sewing projects within the department.
Maintain an ongoing inventory of all living history clothing and accessories.
Develop a volunteer sewing circle to assist with repairs and fabrications.
Research commonly used clothing items from early Spanish, Mexican Texan, and American history periods of the Alamo.
Research and workshop different methods of tailoring, sewing, etc. in order to fulfill material needs of the Living History department.
Create and coordinate workshops, demonstrations and programs for staff, volunteers and visitors.
Dress appropriately in period clothing when needed, and for varying weather conditions.
Research and develop new Living History programming.
Learn the historical Alamo narrative to present to visitors, students, and tour groups. (Training Provided)
Answer visitor questions about the Alamo and life in 18th and 19th century Texas.
Assist in daily set up of demonstrations and programs.
Assist in the development and execution of special events.
QUALIFICATIONS
High school diploma required, college coursework in history/costuming preferred.
Experience in public speaking/history interpretation preferred.
Outgoing personality with ability to speak to the public.
Ability to work in a fast paced, creative environment.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
Strong organizational and record keeping skills.
Willingness to do historical research.
Knowledge of historical and modern clothing skills and trades, with a focus on early 19th century mens and womens clothing.
Proficiency with machine and hand sewing.
Familiarity with pattern making.
Ability to stand for long periods of time.
Willing to work outdoors in a variety of weather.
Able to lift 30 pounds.
Interview and presentation of portfolio/completed work required.
