Stitcher

The heart of Boston Ballet is the human experience. Through our living and breathing art, we forge human connections—between artist and attendee, teacher and trainee, friend and newcomer, one's outer and inner self. We believe that the community of employees that makes dance possible is better together when talented individuals with varied life experiences, identities, races, cultures and ideas are welcomed, encouraged, and heard.

Boston Ballet is seeking a Stitcher to begin work on July 27, 2026, and work a total of 40 weeks, until May 14, 2027, with two unpaid weeks off December 20, 2025 – through January 2, 2027. The Stitcher is a Full-Time Seasonal, non-exempt position that works approximately 40 weeks each season depending upon the annual needs of the shop. The Stitcher will sew costumes as needed for new build productions as well as refurbished productions. The Stitcher must be able to stitch at a fast and accurate rate and demonstrate strong project and time management skills. The Boston Ballet Costume Shop is a high volume, multi project workplace, where team members must be able to perform at a high standard of professional quality workmanship, with an ability to adapt to meet multiple deadlines. General work hours are Monday through Friday, 10am-6pm with some additional evening/weekend hours as needed during high volume periods.

Responsibilities

• Stitch ballet costumes as instructed for new builds, refurbishment, and alterations
• Complete all tasks, alterations, and projects as instructed and on time
• Communicate with the team to problem-solve ballet costume construction techniques
• Utilize a variety of industrial sewing machines and hand sewing techniques to stitch costumes
• Exhibit neatness and accuracy in execution of assigned work
• Understand season timelines and exhibit a commitment to fulfilling team goals and meeting deadlines
• Fabric and shop preparation duties as assigned by table head
• Attend staff meetings as necessary
• Maintain a clean and organized workspace
• Other job-related assignments, as needed
• Some evening and weekend hours will be required

• Three years of experience sewing at a professional theatre level or equivalent
• Strong knowledge of proper costume construction & finishing techniques
• Experience constructing garments in stretch fabrics
• Strong hand sewing skills
• Knowledge of, and experience with, industrial sewing machines used in costume construction
• Experience sewing knits as well as woven fabrics
• Punctuality, precision and responsibility for assigned duties and tasks
• Excellent attention to detail
• Ability to work effectively under pressure
• Openness to constructive criticism, and the flexibility to adjust accordingly

Work Conditions and Physical Requirements

• Capability to work in a workroom environment with machinery, fabrics, and related materials including dyes and adhesives
• Ability to sit for extended periods while performing repetitive sewing tasks
• Strong manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination
• Ability to lift and move materials up to 40 lbs. occasionally
• Ability to operate equipment, including but not limited to, foot pedals, hand controls, and industrial irons
• Occasional standing, reaching, bending, and movement between workstations

Benefits

• BCBS HMO health insurance plan with zero deductible
• BCBS dental insurance with employer providing 100% annual premium for individual coverage
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) – health and dependent care
• Employer-paid life and disability plans
• Immediate access to 403(b) retirement savings plan featuring both pre-tax and Roth options
• Ability to purchase MBTA passes on a pre-tax, payroll deduction basis up to IRS monthly limit
• Paid time off – holidays, personal, and sick days
• Free adult dance classes
• Complimentary tickets to select Boston Ballet performances (based on availability)

PAY RATE: $22.00/hour