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Assistant Costume Designer Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Graphics Designer

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

Produce graphics using large-format and small-format printers * Assist with operating fabric ... Previous sewing experience preferred, including garment, costume, upholstery, or uniform production

Assistant Costume Designer information

See Indiana salary details

$10

$23

$37

How much do assistant costume designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant costume designer in Indiana is $23.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.32 and $27.21 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 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.

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.

What are popular job titles related to Assistant Costume Designer jobs in Indiana?

For Assistant Costume Designer jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Assistant Costume Designer jobs in Indiana look for?

The top searched job categories for Assistant Costume Designer jobs in Indiana are:

Infographic showing various Assistant Costume Designer job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,741 per year, or $23.4 per hour.

Costume Shop Lead

Indiana State University

Terre Haute, IN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


Indiana State University rating

5.4

Company rating: 5.4 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

596th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position Details
Position Details
Student Employment Enrollment Requirements
Indiana State University student enrolled in at least 6 credit hours.
Comments to Applicants
All student employees will be required to submit employment verification documents on their first day of work. For a list of acceptable documentation, follow this link: student-employment-list-of-acceptable-documents.pdf
Notice of Vacancy Number
ST2600047
Job Title
Costume Shop Lead
Job Category
Regular Student Job
Job Type
Regular Student Jobs
Position Class Code
82100 - Student - Unrestricted
Student Pay Grade
999
Hourly Wage/Salary
10.00
Job Summary/Basic Function
Assist the Costume Designer and Costume Shop Supervisor in the sewing and dyeing of fabrics and materials for the creation of costumes for the Theater Department productions.
Specific Responsibilities
Work Schedule
The costume shop is open Monday - Thursday from 12pm - 5pm and Fridays from 10am - 4:30pm. There may be a possibility of additional hours depending on production schedules including evenings and weekends.
Desired Start Date
08/31/2026
Open Date
07/31/2026
Close Date
08/31/2026
Required Relevant Education & Experience
High School diploma or GED
Required Field(s) of Study
Indiana State University student enrolled in at least 6 credit hours.
Preferred Relevant Education and Experience
Student should have taken Theater 178 or had sewing and costume building experience or education. Student should have previously been hired as a Costume Shop Assistant.
Supervisory Responsibilities
Has authority or responsibility for the supervision of student workers or graduate assistants only.
Required Certificates, Licenses and Registrations
Other Required Certificates, Licenses and Registrations
Preferred Certificates, Licenses and Registrations
Preferred Other Certificates, Licenses and Registrations
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Able to adapt to change, Able to learn and retain information, Able to multitask, Able to plan, organize, and implement projects in a timely manner, Able to read English, understand, and follow verbal and written instructions, Able to work both independently and collaboratively, Able to work carefully and politely around others, Able to work well with others, Attention to detail, Demonstration of high ethical standards, integrity, professionalism, politeness, and courteousness, Excellent interpersonal, organizational, planning, teambuilding and problem solving skills, Excellent leadership skills, Experience and knowledge in job related program, Proven supervisory skills, Proven verbal and written communication skills, Willing to interact with students, Willing to work extended hours during events and peak seasons, when required, Work effectively with a diverse community
Other Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
NCAA Guidelines
All employees and staff of ISU are bound by all NCAA, Missouri Valley Conference and institutional rules and regulations pertaining to intercollegiate athletics and must conduct themselves in accordance therewith. For more complete information on the duties and obligations of ISU employees and staff in this regard, employees and staff should contact the Compliance Office in the ISU Athletic Department.
No ISU employee (whether paid or a volunteer) shall knowingly influence others to furnish the NCAA or an ISU investigator/compliance officer false or misleading information concerning an individual's involvement in or knowledge of matters relevant to a possible violation of an NCAA regulation. Failure to abide by this term of employment shall constitute unethical conduct as defined by the NCAA and may result in immediate suspension and/or termination of the employment relationship with ISU.
Job Duties
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Responsibilities will include the supervision of other students in the creation of Department of Theater productions, sewing, dyeing of fabrics and materials, costume storage management and maintenance, and other duties as assigned.

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