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Costume Design Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Troy University

Workship - Costume Assistant

Troy, AL · On-site

... 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 ...

DERICO BEAUTY BAR

Make Up Artist

Montgomery, AL · On-site

Working with costume designers, set designers and stylists to ensure consistency. * Having knowledge of different color palettes and design styles. * Maintaining an awareness of the latest trends in ...

DERICO BEAUTY BAR

Make Up Artist

Montgomery, AL · On-site

Working with costume designers, set designers and stylists to ensure consistency. * Having knowledge of different color palettes and design styles. * Maintaining an awareness of the latest trends in ...

All JobsCostume Design JobsCostume Design Jobs in Alabama

Costume Design information

See Alabama salary details

$9

$17

$34

How much do costume design jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for costume design in Alabama is $17.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.21 and $22.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is costume design?

Costume design is the art of creating clothing and outfits for characters in theater, film, television, and other performance arts. Costume designers work closely with directors and other creative team members to develop looks that help convey the story, era, personality, and setting of each character. Their responsibilities include researching historical periods, selecting fabrics, sketching designs, collaborating with costume makers, and fitting actors. The ultimate goal is to enhance storytelling through visually appropriate and expressive costumes.

How does a costume designer typically collaborate with directors and other creative departments during a production?

Costume designers work closely with directors to understand the overall vision and mood of a production, ensuring that costumes accurately reflect the characters and setting. They also regularly coordinate with set and lighting designers to maintain visual harmony and consider practical aspects like movement and quick changes. Effective communication and flexibility are essential, as adjustments often need to be made throughout rehearsals based on feedback from the creative team and performers. This collaborative process is key to delivering cohesive and impactful storytelling through costume.

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

To thrive as a Costume Designer, you need a solid background in fashion design, garment construction, and costume history, usually supported by a degree in costume or fashion design. Proficiency in design software like Adobe Creative Suite, pattern-making tools, and fabric sourcing systems is typically expected. Creativity, attention to detail, collaboration, and strong communication skills help Costume Designers excel in interpreting scripts and working with directors and cast. These skills are vital for bringing characters to life, ensuring visual consistency, and contributing to the overall storytelling of a production.

What is the difference between Costume Design vs Wardrobe Supervisor?

AspectCostume DesignWardrobe Supervisor
CredentialsFashion or costume design degree, portfolioExperience in wardrobe management, sometimes fashion background
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, film, theater, TV setsOn-set, backstage, costume departments
Employer & Industry UsageFilm, TV, theater productions, fashion showsFilm, TV, theater, live performances

Costume Designers create original costumes based on character needs and director vision, focusing on design and aesthetics. Wardrobe Supervisors manage existing costumes, oversee fittings, and ensure continuity during production. While both roles work closely in costume departments, Costume Design emphasizes creative design, whereas Wardrobe Supervision centers on management and logistics.

How can I become a costume designer?

To become a costume designer, you typically need a bachelor's degree in fashion design, costume design, or a related field, along with experience in sewing, pattern making, and understanding of fabrics. Building a portfolio of your work and gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions in theater, film, or television can help establish your career. Knowledge of industry tools like CAD software and strong collaboration skills are also important.

How much do costume designers get paid?

Costume designers' salaries vary based on experience, location, and project scope. According to industry data, the median annual salary for costume designers is around $60,000, with entry-level positions starting lower and experienced designers earning over $100,000. Many work on a freelance basis or per project, and skills in sewing, fabric selection, and costume construction are essential.

How to get into a costume design job?

To pursue a costume design job, develop a strong portfolio showcasing your work, gain experience through internships or assistant roles, and build skills in sewing, illustration, and fabric selection. A background in fashion, theater, or fine arts can be beneficial, and familiarity with costume construction tools and software is often required.

What qualifications do you need to be a costume designer?

To become a costume designer, a bachelor's degree in fashion design, theater, or a related field is often required. Relevant skills include creativity, knowledge of fabrics and sewing, and experience with design software; internships or portfolio work can also enhance job prospects.

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 jobs in Alabama?

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

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

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

Costume Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Costume Design job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,965 per year, or $17.3 per hour.

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 628 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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