Seamstress/Seamster (Open Until Filled)
ABOUT US
The Royal Winnipeg Ballet enriches the human experience by teaching, creating, and performing outstanding dance. Located in the heart of downtown Winnipeg, the RWB plays an integral role in the city’s vibrant arts community. Founded in 1939, the RWB holds the double distinction of being Canada’s premiere ballet company and the longest continuously operating ballet company in North America. In 1953, the Company received its royal title, the first granted under the reign of Queen Elizabeth II.
The RWB is a leader, renowned for classical ballet and for pushing the boundaries of dance, including through the prestigious RWB School and its Professional and Recreational divisions. A fully integrated company and school, the RWB builds on strengths, challenges conventions, inspires artists, moves audiences, and builds connections locally and globally that unite us all through the universal language of dance.
THE ROLE
As a Seamstress/Seamster, you work under the guidance and supervision of the Head of Wardrobe and are responsible for the sewing quality standards of the Wardrobe department. In this role, you build and repair costumes and prepare for fittings.
KEY DUTIES
• Apply appropriate sewing, alteration, and finishing techniques to meet design specifications.
• Independently build basic garments.
• Select proper threads and needles for projects.
• Ensure required products are completed for fittings.
• Wash and pre-shrink materials prior to use.
• Press and smooth seams using heated irons.
• Measure, align, and secure parts, fasteners, and trimmings according to design markings and patterns.
• Create and sew buttonholes and apply or replace trim as needed.
• Operate industrial sewing machines including sergers, zigzag, and straight stitch equipment.
• Adhere to safety and health policies and procedures.
WORK SETTING
The Wardrobe department is a fast-paced environment with changing priorities and multiple deadlines. This position works with standard sewing equipment and sits for prolonged periods while bending over a table to complete work. The Seamstress/Seamster position works under a Collective Agreement with I.A.T.S.E Local 63.
WHAT YOU BRING
• Experience working with a variety of fabrics and fittings.
• Knowledge of alteration techniques.
• Basic knowledge of patterns and fit.
• Ability to dye fabrics a strong asset.
• Ability to work on multiple projects and meet deadlines.
• Proficient in operating various industrial sewing machines.
• Team oriented with a collaborative mindset.
WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU
• Employer-paid health & dental benefits.
• Matching RRSP program.
• Subsidized bus pass.
• Complimentary tickets to RWB performances.
• Goodlife Fitness Membership discount.
• Employee Assistance Program.
HOW TO APPLY
Ready to join us? Tell us about yourself! Submit your cover letter and resume directly to People Services at [email protected]. While we’d like to connect with each applicant, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. To view a full job description, visit www.rwb.org/about/careers/.
The Royal Winnipeg Ballet is committed to an inclusive and diverse environment that values, respects and supports all individuals. We aim to have a workforce representative of the diversity within our community, and welcome and encourage applicants from various backgrounds including women, Indigenous people, racialized people, disabled people, people of all sexual and gender identities and others who may contribute to further diversification endeavors.
The Royal Winnipeg Ballet is committed to providing accessible employment while ensuring our recruitment process is barrier free. Accommodations are available upon request for candidates participating in all aspects of the assessment and selection process. Requests for accommodation can be sent to [email protected].
Closing Date: Open until filled.
As part of the Royal Winnipeg Ballet hiring process, successful candidates will be required to submit a satisfactory Criminal Background Check and Child Abuse Registry Check.