ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Costume Design Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Liberty

Resident Designer

Lynchburg, VA

Scenic, Lighting, Costumes, Projections. * Responsible for producing design renderings, ground plans, plots, templates, drafting, elevations, etc. * Assist other departments as necessary: lighting ...

Liberty University

Resident Designer

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

Scenic, Lighting, Costumes, Projections. * Responsible for producing design renderings, ground plans, plots, templates, drafting, elevations, etc. * Assist other departments as necessary: lighting ...

Chesterfield

$57K - $87K/yr

... 25% Sewing & Costume Equipment, such as sewing machines, sergers, irons, and costume racks and ... Once a Month Minimum, Assistant Principal: Once a Month Minimum County Specialist: Twice a year ...

All JobsCostume Design JobsCostume Design Assistant JobsCostume Design Assistant Jobs in Virginia

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 Virginia?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Costume Design Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Costume Design Assistant job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution.

Senior Stitcher

SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment

Williamsburg, VA • On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

SEASONAL POSITION
Busch Gardens is a place of thrills, fun and positive, lasting memories. And that's just what its like to work here! As a key member of our team, you'll play a major role in bringing happiness and excitement to people from around the world. If you're dedicated, dependable and driven to deliver exceptional guest service, this is a place for you!
What you get to do as a Costume Specialist- Senior Stitcher
• Responsible for maintaining costuming integrity of assigned shows and productions
• Maintain cleanliness, safety, and quality standards through all assigned tasks
• Construct new costumes
• Responsible for the coordination and instruction of cleaning, care, and maintenance of costumes. This includes making needed repairs to costumes, costume characters, costume overlays, wigs, headpieces, footwear, and the laundering and storage of costumes
• Responsible for the install and strike of assigned festivals and shows
• Responsible for the cleanliness and organization of costuming areas, and stocking adequate inventory and costuming repair materials
• As needed, assist performers with dressing needs including dressing performers, and insuring costumes are properly pre-set and post-set during shows and events
• Assist with pre-setting costumes for special events/functions
• Attend and assist with dress rehearsals and onstage approvals when required
• Maintain frequent open communication of costume character costuming needs and updates with Stage Managers, Dresser Team, Costuming Staff, and Management to ensure all costume characters are in working order and in top quality condition and appearance; including but not limited to costume characters and festival specific costumes
• Assist with Opening and Closing duties in the Costume Shop
• Assist with Entertainment activities and special events in other facilities as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned based on business need
What it takes to succeed:
• At least 18 years old
• Have a High School Diploma or the equivalent
• Minimum 2 years' experience with costume construction, repair, or maintenance of costumes and/or wardrobe items
• Ability to work a flexible schedule including days, evenings, weekends/holidays
• Working knowledge of basic computer programs such as Microsoft Word, Office, and Excel
• Good oral and written communication skills
• Able to handle multiple tasks under high pressure
• Be team-oriented with a kid-siderate attitude
• Have excellent organizational skills; experience with project management a plus
• Ability to trouble shoot mechanical problems
• Excellent hand and industrial machine sewing skills
• Construction and/or costume design abilities preferred
• Ability to follow specific instructions, and teach others to assist based on needs of item
• Experience with or be willing to learn airbrush techniques and designs
• Experience with or be willing to learn wig care and maintenance
• Sewing skills needed to perform costume alterations, costume construction, replace zippers and snaps
• Theme Park experience a plus
What else is important:
• Able to lift, push, and pull a maximum of 25 lbs. several times throughout a scheduled shift
• Able to stand, sit, lie down, squat, and bend repeatedly throughout the day
• Able to climb two flights of stairs multiple times a day
If offered an interview, you will be required to bring a sample portfolio of your work to the interview.
Compensation: 16.50 USD
The perks of the position: Ambassadors will enjoy a fun, fast-paced environment, and great teammates, as well as:
  • FREE park admission
  • Discounts on park admission tickets and passes for family and friends
  • Park discounts on food, merchandise, etc.
  • Scholarship opportunities
  • Exclusive employee events and giveaways

EEO Employer:
SEAWORLD PARKS & ENTERTAINMENT IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. ALL APPLICANTS WILL BE CONSIDERED WITHOUT REGARD TO AGE, RACE, COLOR, RELIGION, SEX, NATIONAL ORIGIN, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, PREGNANCY, GENDER IDENTITY OR EXPRESSION, DISABILITY OR COVERED VETERAN STATUS.

Apply