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Costume Department Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Costume Shop Manager

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$50K - $60K/yr

The Costume Shop Manager oversees the day-to-day operations of the Costume Department and is responsible for the successful execution of all costume production activities in support of Ballet Arizona ...

Skydance Animation is seeking an Associate Costume Designer to join the studio's Costume Department. Reporting to the Head of Costume Design, the Associate Costume Designer will expand upon and ...

Skydance Animation is seeking an Associate Costume Designer to join the studio's Costume Department. Reporting to the Head of Costume Design, the Associate Costume Designer will expand upon and ...

Costuming Supervisor

Del Valle, TX · On-site

$16.25 - $22.25/hr

Requirements Costume Department Leadership and Operations • Lead the daily operations of the Costume Department, ensuring consistent execution of shop workflows, show support priorities, and ...

Responsibilities include assisting the Costume Department with directing work by first hands and other employees as designated or assigned. Essential Functions * Is responsible for the professional ...

Responsibilities include assisting the Costume Department with directing work by first hands and other employees as designated or assigned. Essential Functions * Is responsible for the professional ...

Responsibilities include assisting the Costume Department with directing work by first hands and other employees as designated or assigned. Essential Functions * Is responsible for the professional ...

... Costume Department. This critical role is responsible for pattern making, cutting, and fabrication in one of the finest regional shops. Key Responsibilities include but are not limited to the ...

The Department of Theatre at Saginaw Valley State University invites applications for an administrative professional (non-tenure track) Costume Designer temporary position, and also serves as Costume ...

Costume Designer

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$2.9K - $4.0K/wk

Teach Costume Design Assistants and Visual Development Artists how to prepare detailed costume packets for downstream CG departments by instilling clarity on required information such as pattern ...

Costume Designer

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$2.9K - $4.0K/wk

Teach Costume Design Assistants and Visual Development Artists how to prepare detailed costume packets for downstream CG departments by instilling clarity on required information such as pattern ...

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Costume Department information

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$10

$19

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How much do costume department jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for costume department in the United States is $19.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $24.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does the costume department do in film and theater productions?

The costume department is responsible for designing, creating, sourcing, and maintaining the clothing and accessories worn by actors in film, television, and theater productions. Their work helps define each character's personality, social status, and background, while also supporting the story’s time period and setting. The department collaborates closely with directors, production designers, and actors to ensure costumes fit the creative vision and practical needs of the production.

What is the difference between Costume Department vs Costume Designer?

AspectCostume DepartmentCostume Designer
CredentialsExperience in wardrobe, sewing, costume coordinationDesign degree, fashion or costume design experience
Work EnvironmentCollaborates with costume designers, wardrobe supervisorsCreates original costume concepts, sketches
Industry UsageUsed across film, TV, theater productionsPrimarily responsible for designing costumes

The Costume Department encompasses all roles involved in wardrobe management, including costume supervisors and assistants, focusing on executing the costume design. The Costume Designer is responsible for creating the visual concept and design of costumes. While the department handles the practical aspects, the designer focuses on the creative vision.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in the costume department, and how can they be managed?

Professionals in the costume department often encounter challenges such as tight deadlines, last-minute design changes, and maintaining continuity across scenes or performances. Managing these challenges requires excellent organizational skills, adaptability, and strong communication with directors, actors, and other departments. Building a detailed costume inventory, regularly updating continuity photos, and maintaining open communication channels help ensure the team can respond quickly to changes and keep production running smoothly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Costume Department, and why are they important?

To thrive in the Costume Department, you need a solid background in fashion design, garment construction, and textile knowledge, often supported by a degree in costume or fashion design. Familiarity with sewing machines, pattern-making software, and fabric dyeing techniques is essential, along with knowledge of wardrobe organization systems. Creativity, attention to detail, and strong collaboration skills help individuals excel when working with directors, actors, and other departments. These abilities ensure costumes are historically accurate, visually impactful, and delivered efficiently to support the overall production.
More about Costume Department jobs
What cities are hiring for Costume Department jobs? Cities with the most Costume Department job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Costume Department jobs? The most popular types of Costume Department jobs are:
What states have the most Costume Department jobs? States with the most job openings for Costume Department jobs include:
Infographic showing various Costume Department job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 13% Locum Tenens, 8% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 68% Nights, and 3% Summer. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,680 per year, or $19.1 per hour.
Costume Shop Manager

Costume Shop Manager

BALLET ARIZONA

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

$50K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Description:

The Costume Shop Manager oversees the day-to-day operations of the Costume Department and is responsible for the successful execution of all costume production activities in support of Ballet Arizona’s artistic and production goals.

This position leads costume shop personnel, production workflows, budgets, inventory, rentals, and procurement, ensuring costumes are produced, maintained, and delivered according to established timelines, quality standards, and production requirements.

Working closely with the Director of Production, Artistic Staff, Costume Designers, and the Costume Design & Rentals Specialist, the Costume Shop Manager translates artistic vision into efficient operational plans and high-quality costume execution.


Key Responsibilities


Department Operations & Staff Management

  • Lead the daily operations of the Costume Department, including production workflows, scheduling, inventory management, rentals, and departmental organization
  • Recruit, supervise, train, and evaluate costume department personnel, including full-time, seasonal, and overhire staff
  • Assign work, monitor progress, and adjust staffing and resources to meet production deadlines
  • Foster a collaborative, respectful, and high-performing team environment through effective leadership and communication
  • Maintain an organized, safe, and efficient costume shop and storage areas
  • Ensure compliance with organizational policies and safety practices


Production Management & Execution

  • Develop and oversee costume production schedules, staffing plans, and project priorities
  • Collaborate with production leadership and designers to translate artistic goals into execution strategies
  • Oversee costume construction, alterations, fittings, maintenance, and repairs
  • Ensure quality standards for craftsmanship, durability, and performer safety are met
  • Adjust workflows and resources to accommodate changing production needs
  • Manage sourcing and procurement of materials and supplies


Budget Administration & Planning

  • Partner with the Director of Production to develop and manage departmental and production budgets
  • Monitor labor costs, materials, and expenses to stay within approved budgets
  • Maintain accurate records, inventory systems, and production documentation
  • Identify cost-saving opportunities and operational efficiencies
  • Participate in production meetings and provide project updates


Requirements:

Leadership Expectations

  • Build and maintain a positive, professional, and inclusive work environment
  • Provide clear direction, coaching, and accountability for staff
  • Communicate effectively across departments and with leadership
  • Address challenges proactively and support strong team dynamics


Qualifications

  • Extensive experience in costume construction, alterations, fittings, and theatrical costume production
  • Previous supervisory or management experience in a costume shop, theater, ballet, opera, or performing arts environment
  • Strong leadership, organizational, and project management skills
  • Experience managing production schedules, budgets, and personnel
  • Knowledge of costume materials, construction techniques, and shop operations
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced production environment


Working Conditions

  • Fast-paced environment with deadlines tied to rehearsal and performance schedules
  • May require extended hours during peak production periods
  • Frequent collaboration with artistic staff, production personnel, and external partners


About Ballet Arizona


Ballet Arizona is committed to creating a collaborative, creative, and inclusive environment where artists and production teams work together to deliver world-class performances.


Equal Employment Opportunity


Ballet Arizona provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind.