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Costume Design Jobs in Nebraska (NOW HIRING)

We partner directly with teams, gyms, studios, and program owners to design and produce custom uniforms, costumes, and performance apparel at scale. This collaborative approach brings each program ...

Costume Design information

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$9

$18

$36

How much do costume design jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for costume design in Nebraska is $18.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.84 and $23.12 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 popular job titles related to Costume Design jobs in Nebraska?

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

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

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

What cities in Nebraska are hiring for Costume Design jobs?

Cities in Nebraska with the most Costume Design job openings:

Infographic showing various Costume Design job openings in Nebraska as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, 39% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,833 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

$5.7K/wk

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Posting Details
Position Information
Job Title
Graduate Assistant (Theatre)
Nature of Work
Graduate Assistants are hired at Chadron State College to assist in meeting the vision and goals established for CSC. Strategic deployment of graduate assistant positions is essential to ensure that limited resources are utilized in a manner consistent with the philosophy of CSC. Graduate assistants provide experiential learning in select areas and to assist the individual in a successful transition to future educational and professional opportunities.
Examples of Work Performed
Design one or more technical element (set, lights, costumes, props, etc.) for each production in the theatre season (typically 2-4 productions), as assigned by Theatre faculty.
Attend production meetings and communicate promptly with the production's artistic director and design team.
Work with the Theatre faculty and production team to realize all technical elements.
Assist in the training and supervision of students in the scene shop, costume shop, and lighting lab. Support non-theatre Memorial Hall events through safe and effective use of the Memorial Hall Auditorium and technical equipment.
Assist in the planning and advertising of Theatre Day and other Theatre events.
Required Qualifications
Completed Bachelor's degree
Conditionally accepted or accepted application to CSC graduate program
Successful background records check
Work on the Chadron State College main campus
Preferred Qualifications
Undergraduate major or minor in Theatre or related field
Experience working safely in a scene shop and installing theatrical lighting equipment
Experience in scenic, lighting, and/or costume design
Willingness to assist in all aspects of technical theatre
Willingness to train and support undergraduate students
Physical Demands
License and Certification Requirements
Other Requirements
Salary Information
$5,760 per semester plus tuition waiver (student fees not included)
FTE
0
FLSA
Exempt
Union Status
Non-Union
Number of Vacancies
1
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
PS1723P
Desired Start Date
08/24/2026
Open Date
Close Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
Special Instructions to Applicants
General Information
EEO Statement
The Nebraska State Colleges are equal opportunity institutions and prohibit unlawful discrimination and harassment. Each College has designated an individual to coordinate the Colleges' non-discrimination efforts to comply with regulations implementing Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies and practices may be directed to the Compliance Coordinators assigned at each College and identified on each College website.
Veteran Statement
This position is subject to Veterans Preference.