Current Openings
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Job Title: Costumer
Company: Ujima Co. Inc.
Location: Buffalo, NY
Compensation: Starting at $500 per productionAbout Ujima Co. Inc.:
Ujima Co. Inc. is a multi-generational, Black-led theatre company committed to producing bold, challenging, and relevant work that uplifts community voices and embraces collective liberation. Founded in the principles of ensemble, justice, and shared vision, Ujima fosters a collaborative artistic environment rooted in mutual respect, cultural integrity, and collective responsibility.We are not just a theatre company—we are a cultural institution dedicated to the transformative power of the arts, and the radical possibilities that emerge when we move as a unit.
Position Overview:
As a Costumer at Ujima Co. Inc., you will work closely with the director, production team, and performers to design, create, and assemble costumes that reflect the essence of each show while supporting the vision of the production. Your work will be pivotal in shaping characters and enhancing the storytelling experience. This role will involve working within a collective framework, where collaboration and shared responsibility are key.
Key Responsibilities:
Collaborate with the director, designers, and cast to understand the character and thematic requirements of each production.
Design, source, and create costumes and accessories that align with the artistic direction.
Coordinate with the Production Manager and Stage Manager to schedule fittings, alterations, and costume management during rehearsals and performances.
Assist in the maintenance, repair, cleaning, and organization of costumes throughout the production.
Help foster a positive, cooperative atmosphere in the costume department, encouraging teamwork and collective ownership of the production's success.
Qualifications:
Prior Experience: Proven experience in costume design or a related field, with a strong portfolio or examples of previous work. Knowledge of costume construction, fabric types, and sewing techniques is required.
Organizational Skills: Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
Flexibility: Willingness to work flexible hours as needed, including evenings and weekends.
Passion for Excellence: A passion for theatre and an understanding of Ujima Co. Inc.’s unique commitment to collective work and responsibility.
Collaborative and Community-Oriented Mindset: At Ujima, we value collaboration above all else. The ideal candidate must be adaptable, team-oriented, and willing to share responsibility in all aspects of the production process.
Commitment to Anti-Racism, Equity, and Collective Responsibility: Ujima Co. Inc. is committed to fostering an inclusive, anti-racist workplace. A strong commitment to ensuring that all voices, identities, and experiences are represented and respected is a core value.
Cultural Awareness and Interest in Black Theatre Traditions: Familiarity with or a deep interest in Black theatre traditions, culturally specific storytelling, and the history of African diasporic performance practices is a plus. An understanding of how cultural context can influence production choices, performance styles, and storytelling is highly valued.
Compensation:
Compensation is production-based and starts at $500, with higher rates for productions that require unique or specialized costume design needs.
Commitment:
Costume Designers are generally expected to begin attending weekly production meetings starting one month prior to the first rehearsal. From that point, they will have until two weeks before opening night to source, construct, fit, and finalize all costume elements. The position typically requires an average commitment of 10–15 hours per week over a period of approximately 4–6 weeks.
To Apply:
Please submit a resume and a brief statement of interest to our production manager Tioga Simpson at tioga@ujimacoinc.org. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.Ujima Co. Inc. is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment and encourages applicants from all backgrounds to apply. This profile represents the most ideal candidate but we recognize that some applicants may not meet all expectations all interested parties are encouraged to apply.
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Job Title: Lead Scenic Carpenter
Company: Ujima Co. Inc.
Location: Buffalo, NY
Compensation: Starting at $1,500 per productionAbout Ujima Co. Inc.:
Ujima Co. Inc. is a multi-generational, Black-led theatre company committed to producing bold, challenging, and relevant work that uplifts community voices and embraces collective liberation. Founded in the principles of ensemble, justice, and shared vision, Ujima fosters a collaborative artistic environment rooted in mutual respect, cultural integrity, and collective responsibility.We are not just a theatre company—we are a cultural institution dedicated to the transformative power of the arts, and the radical possibilities that emerge when we move as a unit.
Position Summary:
Ujima Co. Inc. is seeking a skilled and passionate Lead Scenic Carpenter to join our team. This role is vital to the creation of our productions, ensuring that the scenic elements of each show reflect our commitment to artistic excellence, collaboration, and cultural authenticity. The Lead Scenic Carpenter will oversee the design, construction, and installation of set pieces, while guiding a volunteer build team of varying skill levels.
Key Responsibilities:
Lead the construction of sets and scenic elements, ensuring designs are executed to a high standard of quality, safety, and accuracy.
Manage and mentor volunteer carpenters, builders, and crew members
Collaborate with the Production Manager and Scenic Designer to determine the scope of work, materials needed, and construction timeline for each production.
Ensure deadlines are met while maintaining a safe work environment.
Oversee inventory of tools and materials, ensuring all equipment is properly maintained and safe for use.
Work closely with other departments, including the lighting, sound, and costume teams, to ensure the smooth integration of scenic elements with other production elements.
Due to the collaborative nature of the work and volunteer schedules, daytime availability will be required for build days, meetings, and other related tasks.
Qualifications:
Prior Experience: Proven experience in scenic carpentry, preferably in a professional, collegiate, or community theatre environment.
Carpentry Knowledge: Strong knowledge of construction techniques, materials, and tools used in scenic design.
Team Management Experience: Previous experience leading and managing teams of varying skill levels is preferred.
Strong Communication Abilities: Excellent communication and organizational skills.
Self-Starter Personality: Ability to work both independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced, creative environment.
Dedication to Excellence: A strong sense of responsibility, leadership, and dedication to the craft of scenic design and construction.
Collaborative and Community-Oriented Mindset: At Ujima, we value collaboration above all else. The ideal candidate must be adaptable, team-oriented, and willing to share responsibility in all aspects of the production process.
Commitment to Anti-Racism, Equity, and Collective Responsibility: Ujima Co. Inc. is committed to fostering an inclusive, anti-racist workplace. A strong commitment to ensuring that all voices, identities, and experiences are represented and respected is a core value.
Cultural Awareness and Interest in Black Theatre Traditions: Familiarity with or a deep interest in Black theatre traditions, culturally specific storytelling, and the history of African diasporic performance practices is a plus. An understanding of how cultural context can influence production choices, performance styles, and storytelling is highly valued.
Compensation:
Starting at $1,500 per production. Additional compensation is available for productions with unique technical or logistical needs.Commitment:
Scenic Carpenters are generally expected to begin attending weekly production meetings starting one month prior to the first rehearsal. They will have to work within the build schedule set by Ujima’s production manager to source, construct, and finalize all scenic elements. The position typically requires an average commitment of 15-20 hours per week over a period of approximately 3-5 weeks.
To Apply:
Please submit a resume and a brief statement of interest to our production manager Tioga Simpson at tioga@ujimacoinc.org. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.Ujima Co. Inc. is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment and encourages applicants from all backgrounds to apply. This profile represents the most ideal candidate but we recognize that some applicants may not meet all expectations all interested parties are encouraged to apply.
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Download Job Description
Job Title: Stage Manager
Company: Ujima Co. Inc.
Location: Buffalo, NY
Compensation: Starting at $1,500 per productionAbout Ujima Co. Inc.:
Ujima Co. Inc. is a multi-generational, Black-led theatre company committed to producing bold, challenging, and relevant work that uplifts community voices and embraces collective liberation. Founded in the principles of ensemble, justice, and shared vision, Ujima fosters a collaborative artistic environment rooted in mutual respect, cultural integrity, and collective responsibility.We are not just a theatre company—we are a cultural institution dedicated to the transformative power of the arts, and the radical possibilities that emerge when we move as a unit.
Position Summary:
Ujima Co. Inc. is seeking a passionate, highly organized Stage Manager to join our ensemble for upcoming productions in our 2025-26 season. The Stage Manager is an integral part of our creative team, serving as a bridge between artistic vision and production execution. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a collaborative environment, is attentive to detail, and is excited by the possibilities of working within a company that values the power of community and collective work.Key Responsibilities:
Serve as the central point of communication between directors, designers, performers, and technical staff throughout the rehearsal and performance process
Maintain an inclusive and respectful rehearsal space aligned with Ujima’s values
Create and maintain a Rehearsal Schedule with the Director
Figure out Specific Needs of Production (Knee Pads, Rosin, Music Stands, etc.)
Assist Production Manager in Planning and leading Production Meetings
Maintain your SM Kit and let the Production Manager know when items need to be restocked
Print needed scripts for actors, crew, and creative team (printer access provided in our offices)
Record and distribute rehearsal reports, production notes, and daily calls
Call Breaks
Protect the Safety of the Cast
Record Blocking Notes
Communicate with designers
Call all technical cues and manage backstage operations during tech rehearsals and performances
Create and maintain the prompt book and all necessary documentation for the production
Support and uphold safety protocols for performers and crew
Collaborate with Ujima’s production and administrative staff to ensure a smooth and equitable process for all involved
Qualifications:
Prior Stage Management Experience: A minimum of one year of experience as a stage manager in a professional, collegiate, high school or community theater setting, with a proven track record of managing productions from rehearsal to performance. Experience working with collaborative teams and navigating complex creative processes is preferred.
Exceptional Organizational Skills: Must be highly detail-oriented with the ability to juggle multiple responsibilities simultaneously. Experience with creating and maintaining prompt books, schedules, and production documentation is essential.
Strong Communication Abilities: Clear and concise communication skills, both written and verbal, are required. The Stage Manager must be able to effectively relay information to the whole production team, including the production manager, director, designers, performers, and crew. Ability to lead meetings, give direction, and maintain a calm and supportive presence during high-pressure moments is critical.
Time Management and Problem-Solving: Must demonstrate excellent time management and prioritization skills to ensure that rehearsals, tech, and performances stay on schedule. Ability to quickly adapt to changes, troubleshoot issues, and find creative solutions in a fast-paced, collaborative environment is essential.
Collaborative and Community-Oriented Mindset: At Ujima, we value collaboration above all else. The ideal candidate must be adaptable, team-oriented, and willing to share responsibility in all aspects of the production process. This is a role that requires a deep understanding of the importance of ensemble work and the ability to facilitate a cohesive, supportive environment for all members of the production team.
Commitment to Anti-Racism, Equity, and Collective Responsibility: Ujima Co. Inc. is committed to fostering an inclusive, anti-racist workplace. The Stage Manager must be dedicated to promoting equity and social justice in their practice and be willing to challenge systemic inequities in theater for all marginalized members of our community. A strong commitment to ensuring that all voices, identities, and experiences are represented and respected is a core value.
Cultural Awareness and Interest in Black Theatre Traditions: Familiarity with or a deep interest in Black theatre traditions, culturally specific storytelling, and the history of African diasporic performance practices is a plus. The Stage Manager should be open to learning about and engaging with the unique artistic and cultural narratives that Ujima brings to the stage. An understanding of how cultural context can influence production choices, performance styles, and storytelling is highly valued.
Compensation:
Starting at $1,500 per production. Additional compensation is available for productions with unique technical or logistical needs.Commitment:
Stage Managers are generally expected to begin planning with their director at the beginning of each season. They will then need to lead weekly production meetings starting one month prior to the first rehearsal. From that point, they will be expected to be at all rehearsals and performances. The position typically requires an average commitment of 30 hours per week over a period of approximately 8 weeks.
To Apply:
Please submit a resume and a brief statement of interest to our production manager Tioga Simpson at tioga@ujimacoinc.org. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.Ujima Co. Inc. is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment and encourages applicants from all backgrounds to apply. This profile represents the most ideal candidate but we recognize that some applicants may not meet all expectations all interested parties are encouraged to apply.