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Assistant Costume Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lewis University

Costume Shop Manager

Romeoville, IL · On-site

Able to meet deadlines, manage budget and schedules. Assist Costume Designer in taking measurements, conducting fittings, and constructing costumes. Plan the construction time and oversee and ...

Svsu

Costume Designer

Campus, IL

Job Title: Costume Designer Full or Part Time: Part time Hours: 20 Exempt: No Supervisory Org ... Provide guidance and mentorship to costume design students, interns, or assistants, if applicable.

NORAJUNE DESIGNS LLC

Costume Shop Staff

Sunrise, FL · On-site

$400 - $1.0K/wk

Interns will assist in the daily operation of the Costume Department under the direct supervision of shop management and designers. Interns will experience the full spectrum of show production ...

NORAJUNE DESIGNS LLC

Costume Shop Staff

Sunrise, FL · On-site

$400 - $1.0K/wk

Interns will assist in the daily operation of the Costume Department under the direct supervision of shop management and designers. Interns will experience the full spectrum of show production ...

RWS Entertainment Group

Stitcher

New York, NY · On-site

$25/hr

A BFA/BA degree in the Theatre/ Entertainment fields or equivalent professional experience * 1-3 years of experience in the entertainment industry (costume design, assistant costume designer, etc)

Chapman University

Costume Studio Technician

Orange, CA · On-site

$21.50 - $25/hr

Ability to execute hairstyles as designed * Ability to apply and maintain wigs * Assist actors with ... Costume crafting skills * Theatrical makeup skills * Wig styling and application * Ability to use ...

Chapman University

Costume Studio Technician

Orange, CA · On-site

$21.50 - $25/hr

Ability to execute hairstyles as designed * Ability to apply and maintain wigs * Assist actors with ... Costume crafting skills * Theatrical makeup skills * Wig styling and application * Ability to use ...

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Assistant Costume Designer information

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How much do assistant costume designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant costume designer in the United States is $24.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $28.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Assistant Costume Designer vs Costume Designer?

AspectAssistant Costume DesignerCostume Designer
CredentialsRelevant fashion or costume design education, experience assisting in productionsAdvanced experience, portfolio, possibly a degree in costume design or related field
Work EnvironmentAssist in costume planning, sourcing, and fittings under supervisionLead the design process, make creative decisions, oversee costume construction
Industry UsageCommonly employed in film, theater, TV productions as support rolePrimary role responsible for overall costume design and concept

The Assistant Costume Designer supports the Costume Designer by handling tasks like sourcing fabrics, organizing fittings, and assisting with costume construction. The Costume Designer is responsible for creating the overall costume concept, making design decisions, and leading the costume department. Both roles require relevant experience and work in similar environments, but the Assistant Costume Designer typically works under supervision while the Costume Designer leads the creative process.

What Does an Assistant Costume Designer Do?

The job of an assistant costume designer is to help a senior designer design costumes for a show at a theatre or on set. Common duties and responsibilities include making garments for the actors, research, and tracking the budget for the play or show. They may help with costume fittings and the various tasks associated with design. In some cases, an assistant costume designer may provide creative input for the costumes. They also work with the background actors and chorus members to select pieces and give feedback on wardrobe.

What does a costume designer assistant do?

A costume designer assistant supports the lead costume designer by researching, organizing, and preparing costumes for productions. They may help with fabric selection, sewing, fittings, and maintaining costume continuity, often working under tight deadlines in a collaborative environment. Strong organizational skills and knowledge of costume construction are important for this role.

How much does a costume designer get paid?

The average salary for a costume designer varies by experience and location but typically ranges from $40,000 to $80,000 annually. Entry-level designers may earn less, while those with extensive experience or working on major productions can earn significantly more, often supplemented by freelance work or overtime. Skills in sewing, design software, and industry connections can influence earning potential.

What does an Assistant Costume Designer do?

An Assistant Costume Designer supports the Costume Designer in creating and organizing costumes for film, television, theater, or other productions. Their responsibilities include helping with research, sourcing materials, coordinating fittings, maintaining costume continuity, and overseeing wardrobe needs on set. They also assist in managing budgets, supervising costume staff, and ensuring costumes are ready on time for rehearsals and performances. This role requires creativity, attention to detail, and strong organizational skills to keep everything running smoothly.

What are the typical responsibilities of an Assistant Costume Designer during a production?

As an Assistant Costume Designer, your daily tasks often include supporting the lead Costume Designer with research, sourcing materials, organizing fittings, and managing the costume budget. You'll collaborate closely with tailors, wardrobe supervisors, and performers to ensure costumes are accurate, functional, and ready on time. The role can be fast-paced, especially during tech rehearsals and performances, requiring strong organizational skills and adaptability. Your input is also valuable during creative discussions and problem-solving on set or backstage.

How much do assistant costume designers make?

Assistant costume designers typically earn between $30,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the production size. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced assistants working on major projects can earn higher salaries and benefits.

How to become a costume assistant?

To become a costume assistant, individuals typically gain experience through internships or entry-level positions in costume departments, develop skills in sewing, fabric selection, and costume maintenance, and familiarize themselves with costume design software and wardrobe management. A background in fashion, theater, or costume design can be beneficial, and strong organizational and communication skills are essential for supporting costume designers and wardrobe supervisors.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Assistant Costume Designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Costume Designer, you need a solid understanding of costume history, garment construction, and fabric knowledge, often supported by a degree in fashion, costume design, or a related field. Familiarity with design software like Adobe Photoshop, sewing machines, and budgeting or inventory management systems is typically required. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with designers and production teams. These abilities are crucial for ensuring costumes are delivered on time, meet creative visions, and support the smooth running of theater, film, or television productions.
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Assistant Costume Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Costume Designer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,223 per year, or $24.6 per hour.
Costume Shop Manager

Costume Shop Manager

Lewis University

Romeoville, IL • On-site

Part-time

Posted 26 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Participate in pulling, shopping, and construction of costumes for department productions.

  • Train and supervise students working in the costume shop.

  • Maintain costume shop inventory, equipment, schedules, calendars, and budgets.

Lewis University rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 541 rated colleges and universities

Job description

PAF/Position Details
Position Details
Position Title
Costume Shop Manager
Position Status
Part-Time
Budget Summary
Base Pay
25.00 / hour
Position Summary Information
Job Description Summary
The Theatre Department at Lewis University produces three plays and a musical during the course of the academic year. The Costume Shop Manager will work with the faculty costume designer and other faculty members and participate in the pulling, shopping, and construction of costumes for department productions. The Costume Shop Manager will train and supervise students to work in the costume shop. Additional duties include maintenance of inventory, equipment, schedules, calendars, and budgets. The Costume Shop Manager may also expect to assist in or teach a basic costume course for undergraduate students.
Please click the link for more information about our benefits. Office of Human Resources | Benefit
Responsibilities
Responsible to model the University Mission through dedicated job performance, service excellence to constituencies, respectful collaboration and active support of the University's Mission in Catholic and Lasallian higher education.
Maintenance of costume shop, costume inventory, and equipment. Able to meet deadlines, manage budget and schedules. Assist Costume Designer in taking measurements, conducting fittings, and constructing costumes. Plan the construction time and oversee and participate in the actual construction of costumes for each production. Supervise and mentor work study students assigned to the costume shop. Oversee and assist Costume Designer during dress rehearsals.. Supervise costume strike including laundering costumes, restocking accessories, and returning costumes to storage.
Minimum Qualifications
BFA in costume technology or design. Minimum one year experience in professional live entertainment (e.g. regional theatre, cruise lines, etc.). Consideration will be given to an equivalent combination of related education and required work experience. Minimum one year experience in costume shop management or equivalent management experience. Knowledge of pattern making, cutting, draping, fabric modification, crafts, stitching and altering. Ability to supervise and mentor multiple individuals at a time, including work study students. Excellent communication and collaborative skills with students and colleagues. Excellent organizational and time management skills.
Preferred Qualifications
MFA in costume design or technology. Two to five years of leadership/supervisory work in a costume shop. Computer skills including Microsoft Office and Google Docs.
Essential Duties
Work hours
evenings and weekends
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
S01674
Posting Date
Closing Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
Special Instructions Summary

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