ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Costume Design Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Dance Studio

Be Seen First

Dance Studio Administrator

Plymouth, MN · On-site

$19.50 - $25.75/hr

Costume design experience * Sewing and garment alteration skills * Experience organizing costume inventory for performances or competitions * Knowledge of dance competition schedules, registration ...

Dance Studio

Be Seen First

Dance Studio Administrator

Plymouth, MN · On-site

$19.50 - $25.75/hr

Costume design experience * Sewing and garment alteration skills * Experience organizing costume inventory for performances or competitions * Knowledge of dance competition schedules, registration ...

The Guthrie Theater

Draper/Tailor

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$36.17/hr

Fit costumes in collaboration with the actor, design team, and management. * Adjust design lines, trim, etc. according to designer's wishes. 3. Lead * Collaborate with the design team and management ...

Guthrie Theater

Draper/Tailor

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$36.17/hr

Fit costumes in collaboration with the actor, design team, and management. * Adjust design lines, trim, etc. according to designer's wishes. 3. Lead * Collaborate with the design team and management ...

Valleyfair LLC

ValleyScare Makeup Artist

Shakopee, MN · On-site

$17/hr

Collaborate with supervisors, costume teams, and performers * Sanitize tools and products to meet ... application, airbrushing, and character design Knowledge of hygiene and safety in makeup ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsCostume Design JobsCostume Design Jobs in Minnesota

Costume Design information

See Minnesota salary details

$10

$18

$37

How much do costume design jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for costume design in Minnesota is $18.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.17 and $23.80 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 Minnesota?

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

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

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

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

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

Costume Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Costume Design job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 9% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,863 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

Paid Directing, Costume Design, & Properties Design Fellowships

Children's Theatre Company

Saint Paul, MN • On-site

$111K - $145K/yr

Other

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Theater Mu is seeking a:

  • directing fellow to work under the mentorship of Mu artistic director Fran de Leon.
  • costume design fellow to work under the mentorship of costume designer Eleanor Schanelic.
  • properties design fellow to work under the mentorship of properties designer Madelaine Foster.

Duration: July through Nov 15, 2026

Location: Twin Cities; rehearsals at Theater Mu studio, 755 Prior Ave N #107, Saint Paul, MN; tech and performances at Frey Theater, 2004 Randolph Ave, Saint Paul, MN 5510

Theater Mu's fellowship program is designed for emerging theater artists to gain on-the-job experience, remove barriers around career advancement, and make theater more representative. Past fellows have gone on to become lead directors and designers at Mu and other theaters.

All fellowships are part-time and paid on a stipend. The 2026 directing, costume design, and properties design fellowships are in support of the world premiere production of Kung Fu Zombies vs Southeast Asian Girl Scouts, written by Saymoukda Duangphouxay Vongsay and directed by Mu artistic director Fran de Leon.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Questions? Email info@theatermu.org.

#J-18808-Ljbffr

Apply