The Daily Dot
The Cutting Room Floor controversy: How a $55K job listing turned into a flashp…
"We did a poor job communicating it."
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NYC Fashion Job Posting for $55k with No Benefits Ignites Online Controversy Over Fair Wages
New York City, NY - A recent job posting for a Studio Coordinator position in the fashion industry has ignited a fervent online discussion regarding fair wages and working conditions in the city. The role, advertised by 'The Cutting Room Floor,' offers a pre-tax annual salary of $55,000 with no benefits, for a full-time, in-person commitment in New York City. The video, posted by 'Urban Outfitters Depop,' detailed the position's requirements, which include extensive responsibilities spanning office administration, bookings coordination, and personal assistant duties. The presenter emphasized the need for immediate availability and strict adherence to application instructions, warning that direct emails would lead to immediate disqualification. Public reaction has been swift and largely critical. Commenters quickly pointed out the perceived inadequacy of a $55,000 salary for New York City's high cost of living, especially without benefits. Many expressed concern that the role consolidates multiple demanding responsibilities into a single, underpaid position, potentially exploiting junior-level talent in the fashion industry. "$55k in 2025 is below the poverty line in NYC. She tried it!!" one user commented, while another stated, "That sounds like 3 jobs, office manager, personal assistant, and office administrator." Critics also highlighted the presenter's tone and strict instructions, suggesting a potentially negative work environment. "Former HR here. the 'I cannot hire someone who cannot follow simple instructions' to 'a little bit of a personal assistant' told me EVERYTHING I need to know about her work environment," a former HR professional noted. The debate underscores ongoing concerns about labor practices and compensation standards within competitive industries like fashion, particularly in expensive urban centers.
