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Costume Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lewis University

Costume Shop Manager

Romeoville, IL · On-site

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 ...

College of Charleston

Costume Shop Manager

Charleston, SC · On-site

$39K - $47K/yr

Supervise, train, and assist paid student workers and laboratory students in the costume shop on sewing, pattern-making, draping, wig styling, makeup techniques, crafts, dyeing, and wardrobe skills ...

The Pennsylvania State University

The Costume Shop Manager serves as a central coordinator for production processes within the ... Attend dress rehearsals and maintain a hands-on presence backstage as needed. * Assist with ...

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Costume Assistant information

What are Costume Assistants?

Costume Assistants are professionals who support costume designers and wardrobe departments in the creation, organization, and maintenance of costumes for film, television, theater, or live events. Their duties can include sourcing materials, helping with fittings, making minor repairs or alterations, and ensuring costumes are ready and available for performers. They play a key role in keeping the costume workflow smooth and ensuring the visual quality and continuity of a production's wardrobe.

What is the difference between Costume Assistant vs Costume Designer?

AspectCostume AssistantCostume Designer
CredentialsOften high school diploma or equivalent; some experience in costume workFormal education in fashion, costume design, or related fields; portfolio required
Work EnvironmentAssist in costume preparation, fittings, and maintenance on set or stageLead the design process, create costumes, and oversee costume department
Industry UsageCommonly employed in film, TV, theater, and live performances

The main difference is that a Costume Assistant supports the costume department by handling tasks like costume prep and organization, while a Costume Designer is responsible for creating and designing the costumes themselves. The Costume Assistant typically works under the supervision of the Costume Designer and focuses on execution, whereas the Costume Designer leads the creative process.

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

To thrive as a Costume Assistant, you need a solid understanding of costume design, garment construction, and basic sewing skills, often backed by formal education in fashion or theater arts. Familiarity with tools like sewing machines, garment care equipment, and wardrobe management software is typically required. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you stand out when supporting costume designers and collaborating with performers. These abilities ensure that costumes are prepared, maintained, and delivered efficiently, contributing to the overall success of theatrical or film productions.

What does a costume attendant do?

A costume attendant is responsible for managing, organizing, and maintaining costumes on a film, theater, or television set. They assist with dressing actors, ensuring costumes are in good condition, and help with quick changes during production. The role often requires knowledge of costume handling, attention to detail, and the ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.

How much do costume assistants make?

Costume assistants typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the production size. Entry-level positions may pay closer to minimum wage, while experienced assistants working on larger productions can earn higher wages or salaries. Compensation may also include benefits such as costume supplies and flexible schedules.

What does a costume assistant do?

A costume assistant helps with the organization, fitting, and maintenance of costumes for productions. They may assist with dressing actors, repairing garments, and managing costume inventory, often working closely with costume designers and wardrobe supervisors in a fast-paced environment.

What are some common challenges Costume Assistants face when working on large productions?

Costume Assistants on large productions often face the challenge of managing multiple costumes and quick changes, sometimes under tight time constraints. Coordinating with actors, costume designers, and other crew members requires strong organizational and communication skills. Additionally, keeping track of costume continuity and handling last-minute adjustments are common aspects of the role. Being adaptable and detail-oriented helps Costume Assistants thrive in these fast-paced environments.

How to become a costume assistant?

To become a costume assistant, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and gain experience in costume design, sewing, or wardrobe management. Skills in fabric manipulation, attention to detail, and familiarity with costume tools are important, and some positions may require knowledge of costume history or the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
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Costume Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Costume Assistant job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 98% Full Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.
Costume Shop Manager

Costume Shop Manager

Lewis University

Romeoville, IL • On-site

Part-time

Posted 15 hours ago

Lewis University rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 544 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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