Paid Assistant Supervisor, Hair & Makeup Ballet , NY, NY

Position: Paid Assistant Supervisor, Hair & Makeup New York City Ballet New York, NY, NY US 01/14/2026

Location: New York

New York City Ballet is one of the foremost dance companies in the world, with a roster of spectacular dancers and an unparalleled repertory. Founded in 1948 by George Balanchine and Lincoln Kirstein, New York City Ballet quickly became world-renowned for its athletic and contemporary style. Widely acknowledged for its enduring contributions to dance, New York City Ballet is committed to promoting creative excellence and nurturing a new generation of dancers and choreographers.

The School of American Ballet is the official training academy of the New York City Ballet.

General Summary

The Hair & Makeup Assistant Supervisor is the technical lead for the company’s wig and hair department. This position combines the high-level craftsmanship of a Master Wig Stylist with the operational responsibility of supervising hair stylist over hires. This position will ensure the technical integrity of the hair department while maintaining the daily "Hair Track" during performances. While makeup is a secondary function, this position provides minimal support to dancers and assume supervision of makeup over hires only in the absence of the Hair & Makeup Supervisor.

Major

Duties and Responsibilities

Master Wig Craft & Hair Functions

• Lead the shop in advanced wig-making, including lace fronting, ventilating (knotting), and custom foundation building for new productions.
• Execute complex period and contemporary styling; oversee the washing, steaming, and re-setting of the company’s wig inventory.
• Create and manage the master backstage run-sheet, ensuring all hair-related cues and quick changes are executed flawlessly.
• Directly supervise and train all hair stylist over hires whenever needed (seasonal repertoire will determine the need).
• Act as the lead for makeup over hires only when the Hair & Makeup Supervisor is unavailable or off-site.
• Conduct final checks on all ensemble hair and wigs to ensure "ballet-grade" security and visual consistency before dancers go on stage.
• May be called upon to assist dancers with basic makeup needs per the direction of the Hair & Makeup Supervisor.
• Ensure all tools (brushes, combs, sponges) are sterilized daily. Supervise the deep cleaning of wig lace to remove adhesive buildup.

Documentation & Logistics

• Maintain continuity photos and hair charts to ensure the production’s look remains identical throughout the season.
• Monitor the "burn rate" of consumables (hairspray, pins, adhesives) and coordinate reorders with the Supervisor.
• Supervise the packing and transport of wig crates and hair kits for domestic and international tours.
• Highest moral character and integrity
• A minimum of 3–5 years of professional experience in a theatrical wig shop, film/TV hair department, or a high-end salon specializing in hairpieces and extensions.
• A digital portfolio that clearly demonstrates:
• Before-and-after photos of wig styling/sets.
• Examples of lace repair or ventilating work.
• Photos of "on-head" applications where the hairline looks natural.
• Experience working "backstage" during live performances, specifically handling quick changes and high-pressure environments.
• A current Cosmetology License, and/or a degree in Technical Theater with a focus on wigs and makeup preferred.
• Certification in blood borne pathogens or general workplace sanitation (Barbicide certification) is a modern industry standard.
• Proficiency in ventilating (hand-knotting hair into lace), repairing torn lace, and "fronting" (attaching a new lace front to an existing wig).
• Expertise in creating a flat, secure base on the dancer’s natural hair (using pin-curls, wrap-sets, or specialized braiding) to ensure the wig sits correctly and won't move.
• Proven ability to execute specific historical styles (e.g., Romantic, Victorian, 1920s) and modern styles using thermal tools, steam, and rollers.
• Expert-level understanding of theatrical adhesives (Spirit Gum, Pros-Aide, Telesis), removers, and heavy-duty sealants.
• Knowledge of how to use wig clips, elastic bands, and "sewing" the wig to the dancer’s hair for maximum security during jumps and turns.
• Understanding how to style hair so it remains "locked in" despite heavy perspiration and 360-degree movement.
• Understan…