Job Description

The University of Oklahoma Weitzenhoffer Family College of Fine Arts Helmerich School of Drama seeks a creative and committed tenure track Assistant Professor of Costume Technology.

The Helmerich School of Drama at the University of Oklahoma prepares students for creative and meaningful professional careers in a broad range of employment in professional theatre, dance, opera, television, film, live entertainment, industrial, and theme park venues. All the advantages of a liberal arts education in a renowned national R1 university are combined with intensive conservatory-style training. BFA emphases in the School of Drama include Performance, Dramaturgy, Design (scenic, lighting, costume, and sound), and Stage Management. A new MFA program in Directing is being launched this fall. The school is comprised of 26 full-time faculty and staff and 125 majors. We produce 9 mainstage productions each year in collaboration with the School of Drama, School of Musical Theatre, the School of Dance, and the Opera Program in the School of Music in addition to productions in our Studio Theatre.

This faculty member will be expected to:

• Teach existing undergraduate courses including but not limited to Costume Construction, Costume Crafts, Draping and Pattern Drafting 1 and 2, and Advanced Costume Construction Techniques.
• Develop new courses related to Costume Technology.
• Teach courses in the newly developed MFA Costume Technology program upon approval.
• Conduct research/creative activities related to the field or allied fields.
• Contribute to advising and recruitment of both undergraduate and, eventually, graduate students.
• Collaborate with the costume studio supervisor to establish efficiency and quality standards for production builds.
• Contribute to the professional development of the costume technical staff in conjunction with the costume studio supervisor.
• Assist with production planning in conjunction with the Costume Design professor and costume studio supervisor.
• Assume responsibilities as Cutter/draper for one University Theatre production per semester.
• Participate in service activities in the department, college, university, and professional discipline.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Earned M.F.A. in Costume Technology/Design with teaching experience at the university level.
• Demonstrated high level of draping and patternmaking ability.
• Demonstrated experience and ability to teach and mentor students.
• Experience with digital pattern drafting.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of costume crafts (e.g. millinery, dying techniques and wig styling).
• Previous experience with creation and/or teaching of graduate costume technology classes.
• Established experience with recruiting at the undergraduate level.
• Knowledge of industrial sewing equipment including single bed, sergers, and blind hem machines.
• Ability to apply and teach current and emerging technologies (e.g., digitizing technology) effectively

Application Instructions

To apply: Submit a cover letter including a CV, statement of teaching and creative experience, contact information for three references, and three samples of research or creative activity. All materials must be uploaded to the following website: Interfolio

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Applications received by October 30th, 2026 will receive full consideration.

Please contact Jon Young, search committee chair, with questions regarding the position: jon.young-1@ou.edu

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

The University, in compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, genetic information, gender identity/expression (consistent with applicable law), age (40 or older), religion, disability, political beliefs, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices, or procedures. This includes but is not limited to admissions, employment, housing, financial aid, and educational services.

Why You Belong at the University of Oklahoma

The University of Oklahoma values our community's unique talents, perspectives, and experiences. At OU, we aspire to harness our innovation, creativity, and collaboration for the advancement of people everywhere. You Belong Here!

Mission of the University of Oklahoma

The Mission of the University of Oklahoma is to provide the best possible educational experience for our students through excellence in teaching, research and creative activity, and service to the state and society.