Design Director jobs in Kenner, LA

Join Royal Design House (RDH) in New Orleans, specializing in crafting high-end custom gowns for Mardi Gras royalty and bespoke costumes for Carnival Krewes. We seek a Stitcher/Pattern Draper to draft patterns, sew, and bead unique pieces under guidance. This is a contracted position, with the possibility of becoming a full-time position.

We are adding a Stitcher/Pattern Draper to our team. In this role you will craft patterns and oversee the construction of custom gowns and costumes. This role involves machine and hand sewing, as well as intricate hand-beading techniques for unique costumes. You'll collaborate closely with the Head Draper, Shop Supervisor, and Designer.

Work Hours/Schedule:

Employees adhere to the standard shop schedule of 9am-5pm Monday-Friday, set by Management. However, extended hours and occasional weekends may be required during peak seasons (October to Mardi Gras Day). Post-Mardi Gras scheduling is at Management's discretion. The annual schedule typically involves:

• July 1-August: Focus on Queens’ mock-ups, potential corset/harness work, collar designs, and general design tasks.
• August-October 31: Engage in seasonal projects, typically Monday-Friday, with the potential for longer hours or additional days as needed.
• November 1-Mardi Gras Day: Primarily dedicated to seasonal projects and Ball support, with flexibility for increased workdays.
• Post-Mardi Gras to March 31: Transition to collar/mantle/shop maintenance and initiation of Spring projects, typically 3-4 days per week.
• April-May: Concentrate on graduation dresses, preparation for upcoming Queens, design work, and potential off-season projects. Compensation for this period is determined separately from seasonal salary. Schedule variations are contingent on the production calendar and may be subject to change.

Responsibilities:

• Fabricate patterns for custom pieces, perform alterations, and oversee construction, including guidance for team members when assistance is needed.
• Monitor and manage stock levels, promptly informing the Shop Supervisor of inventory reorder needs.
• Assist in maintaining organized filing systems and client measurement binders for efficient workflow.
• Collaborate with the Designer to strategize optimal construction techniques.
• Execute intricate hand-sewing techniques for beading and decoration with a commitment to excellence.
• Perform classic tailoring techniques to ensure impeccable fit and finish.
• Fulfill administrative duties as required to support overall operations.

Skills/Qualifications:

Educational Background:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Theatre Costume, Fashion Technology, or related field; Master’s Degree preferred. Alternatively, demonstrate skill proficiency through relevant experience.

Draping, Garment, & Costume Construction:

• 3-5 years of draping experience with expertise in pattern drafting for both men's and women's garments.
• Extensive knowledge of couture-level stitching, construction methods, and tailoring.
• Proven ability to identify and resolve fit and construction issues during fittings.
• Proficiency with domestic and industrial sewing machines, sergers, and ironing.
• General understanding of millinery and crafting techniques, along with fashion and costume history.

General Skills:

• Strong interpersonal skills, maintaining professionalism with colleagues and clients.
• Excellent memory retention for names, faces, and personal details.
• Capacity to multitask and thrive under pressure to meet deadlines.
• Meticulous attention to detail in all tasks.
• Positive attitude towards repetitive tasks and willingness to take direction.
• Efficient organization of space and time management skills.
• Proficient use of smartphones and various applications.

Benefits:

The compensation for this role ranges between $22-26/hr and is dependent upon candidate experience. Additional benefits include the following:

• Health, vision, and dental insurance.
• PTO

Job Types: Full-time, Temp-to-hire

Pay: $22.00 - $26.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday
• Overtime
• Weekends as needed

Application Question(s):

• What is your expected compensation range?
• When are you looking to start a new position?

Experience:

• pattern drafting: 3 years (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• New Orleans, LA 70130: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person