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Costume Design Assistant Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

... Assistant Position Type Student Department Theatre & Dance - Troy Division College of Arts and ... Design faculty with research, design, construction of costumes, fitting costumes, cleaning and ...

Costume Design Assistant information

What does a costume design assistant do?

A Costume Design Assistant supports the costume designer in creating, organizing, and managing costumes for film, television, theater, or other productions. Their responsibilities often include sourcing materials, helping with fittings, maintaining costume continuity, and ensuring garments are ready for use on set or stage. They may also handle administrative tasks like budgeting, scheduling, and coordinating with other departments. This role requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a passion for fashion and design. Working closely with the costume designer and other team members, a Costume Design Assistant plays a vital role in bringing the visual aspect of characters to life.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a costume design assistant?

To thrive as a Costume Design Assistant, you need a solid understanding of garment construction, fabric types, and basic sewing techniques, often supported by a degree or coursework in fashion, theater, or costume design. Familiarity with design software like Adobe Illustrator, pattern-making systems, and inventory management tools is typically expected. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with designers, actors, and production teams. These skills ensure costumes are produced efficiently, accurately, and creatively, contributing to the overall success of a production.

What are common challenges faced by costume design assistants during a production, and how can they be managed?

Costume Design Assistants often face the challenge of managing last-minute changes, such as alterations to costumes or shifts in the production schedule. Balancing multiple tasks—like sourcing materials, maintaining costume continuity, and supporting fittings—requires strong organizational skills and adaptability. Clear communication with the costume designer, performers, and other departments is crucial for keeping workflows smooth and ensuring the creative vision is realized. Building strong relationships with suppliers and having a well-organized system for tracking costumes can also help manage these challenges effectively.

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

AspectCostume Design AssistantCostume Designer
CredentialsRelevant fashion or costume design education, experience assistingAdvanced education in costume design, portfolio, industry experience
Work EnvironmentAssist in costume creation, fabric sourcing, and organizationLead design process, conceptualize costumes, collaborate with directors
Industry UsageSupporting role in film, theater, TV productionsPrimary role responsible for overall costume design

The Costume Design Assistant supports the Costume Designer by handling tasks like sourcing fabrics and organizing costumes. The Costume Designer is responsible for creating the overall costume concept and leading the design process. Both roles require relevant education and experience, but the Assistant works under supervision, while the Designer leads the creative vision.

Does costume design assistant pay well?

The salary for a costume design assistant varies depending on the location, experience, and industry. Typically, they earn an entry-level wage, with salaries increasing with experience and working on larger productions or for well-known companies. The average annual pay ranges from around $25,000 to $50,000, with some positions offering additional benefits or opportunities for advancement.

How to become a costume design assistant?

To become a costume design assistant, individuals typically need a background in fashion design, costume design, or a related field, often gained through a degree or coursework. Relevant skills include sewing, pattern making, and knowledge of fabrics, along with experience working in costume or wardrobe departments, often gained through internships or entry-level positions. Strong organizational skills and the ability to work under deadlines are also important in this role.

How to get into costume design with no experience?

To start as a costume design assistant with no experience, gain basic sewing and costume construction skills through online courses or workshops. Volunteer or seek internships on student or community theater productions to build a portfolio and gain industry exposure, which can lead to entry-level opportunities in costume departments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Costume Design jobs in Alabama?

The most popular types of Costume Design jobs in Alabama are:

What are popular job titles related to Costume Design Assistant jobs in Alabama?

For Costume Design Assistant jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Costume Design Assistant jobs in Alabama look for?

The top searched job categories for Costume Design Assistant jobs in Alabama are:

What cities in Alabama are hiring for Costume Design Assistant jobs?

Cities in Alabama with the most Costume Design Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Costume Design Assistant job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution.

Workship - Costume Assistant

Troy University

Troy, AL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Troy University rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

73rd of 629 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Posting Details
Position Information
Posting Number
ST1475P
Position Title
Workship - Costume Assistant
Position Type
Student
Department
Theatre & Dance - Troy
Division
College of Arts and Humanities
Campus
Troy
Work Status
Student (SPT)
Temporary
No
Location
Troy - T01
Job Summary
The Workship position in the Department of Theatre and Dance is responsible for assisting the Costume Design faculty with research, design, construction of costumes, fitting costumes, cleaning and organizing costumes and managing the costume shop.
Minimum Qualifications
1. Must be a current Troy University student
2. Must be a theatre major or minor with costume experience and/or interest
Preferred Qualifications
1. Stitching ability
2. Strong organizational skills
Will this position require driving (personal vehicle, university vehicle, utility vehicle, or golf cart) in order to perform the job duties?
No
Work Hours
10-15 hours weekly
Evenings and/or weekends occasionally required
List any hazardous conditions or physical demands required by this position
Ability to lift up to 40 lbs
Ability to use sewing machine and industrial iron
Does this position have supervisory responsibility?
No
Posting Date
08/25/2026
Closing Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
Special Instructions to Applicants
Quick Link
https://www.troyuniversityjobs.com/postings/48313

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