Assistant Professor in Costume Design

Shenandoah Conservatory seeks a dynamic and collaborative theatre professional in costume design to join its Theatre Division located on our main campus in Winchester, VA . The chosen candidate will further strengthen Shenandoah Conservatory's profile and reputation as a premiere and inclusive place of study where students from diverse backgrounds develop into costume design professionals, and as a place where audiences can experience transformative performances. Successful candidates will have a demonstrated ability to create and maintain a positive working environment and a passion for teaching and mentoring students within a rigorous, conservatory program. This is a full-time, 9-month faculty position with benefits and requires evening and weekend work. This position requires a current driver license and the ability to stand for long periods of time. Appointment begins August 15, 2025.

The successful candidate will:

• Teach courses related to theatre design such as Introduction to Stage Costuming, Stage Makeup, Studio 3 (costume rendering), etc.;
• Design (or mentor student designers) on a total of four theatre/opera productions over the course of two semesters;
• In conjunction with the other costume design professor and the staff shop manager, help to supervise and train work-study and lab students in the areas of costume design and construction as well as hair and makeup;
• Be centrally involved in the work of further developing cutting-edge undergraduate curricula, ensuring exceptional industry-oriented programs;
• Be actively engaged in TDP recruiting and retention activities both on-campus and at regional and national events; and
• Teach other undergraduate courses in the field of expertise as appropriate.                     

Required qualifications and skills include:

• Two years of experience in teaching and mentoring costume design at the university level (can include MFA teaching responsibilities);
• An MFA in Costume Design, or equivalent professional experience;
• A deep understanding of emergent technologies matched by a driving passion for mentorship;
• An ability to work with others to further strengthen the Conservatory’s undergraduate design program;
• An ability to recruit and develop emerging student talent;
• A powerful orientation toward collaborative work;
• An ability to contribute to the Conservatory’s commitment to inclusion, diversity, and equity; and
• Effective verbal and written communication skills

Preferred qualifications include:

• A record of distinguished costume design experience at a regional level.
• USA 829 membership
• USITT membership
• Costume design experience in Dance and/or Opera

How to Apply: 

The complete application will include a letter of intent (in which candidates should describe their commitment to and engagement around inclusion, diversity and equity), curriculum vitae and contact information for three professional references, and a link to an online portfolio, including samples of student work. Applications will be reviewed immediately and continue until a qualified candidate is selected.

**Note: A pre-employment background check will be required, and a satisfactory driving record may be required as a condition of hire. 

Shenandoah University values individuals and communities' unique and diverse perspectives locally and globally. It seeks to foster mutual understanding in an inviting community where individuals are welcome and respected. The university does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran’s status, or on any other basis protected under applicable law.