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Costume Shop Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lewis University

Costume Shop Manager

Romeoville, IL · On-site

The Costume Shop Manager will work with the faculty costume designer and other faculty members and participate in the pulling, shopping, and construction of costumes for department productions. The ...

College of Charleston

Costume Shop Manager

Charleston, SC · On-site

$39K - $47K/yr

Posting Details POSTING INFORMATION Internal Title Costume Shop Manager Position Type Classified Faculty / Non-Faculty / Administration Non-Faculty Pay Band GEN07 Level Department Theatre & Dance Job ...

The Pennsylvania State University

The Costume Shop Manager serves as a central coordinator for production processes within the costume area and ensures that all costume-related operations are executed efficiently, safely, and within ...

NORAJUNE DESIGNS LLC

Costume Shop Staff

Sunrise, FL · On-site

$400 - $1.0K/wk

Keeps shop clean and tidy re-stocks supplies as needed, dressing mannequins and creates displays for holidays, and sales. Helps prepare costume rental packages. Works at the theatre during load-ins ...

NORAJUNE DESIGNS LLC

Costume Shop Staff

Sunrise, FL · On-site

$400 - $1.0K/wk

Keeps shop clean and tidy re-stocks supplies as needed, dressing mannequins and creates displays for holidays, and sales. Helps prepare costume rental packages. Works at the theatre during load-ins ...

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Costume Shop information

See salary details

$18

$27

$40

How much do costume shop jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for costume shop in the United States is $27.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.15 and $31.73 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do costume designers get paid well?

Costume designers' salaries vary depending on experience, location, and industry, but they generally earn a median annual wage that is competitive within the entertainment and theater sectors. Entry-level designers may earn less, while experienced professionals working on major productions can earn significantly higher salaries, often supplemented by benefits and freelance opportunities. Skills in sewing, design software, and industry connections can influence earning potential.

Where can I find costume jobs?

Costume jobs can be found through theater companies, film and television production companies, costume rental shops, and online job boards specializing in entertainment and arts industries. Skills in sewing, design, and knowledge of costume history are often required, and some positions may require a portfolio or certification. Networking within local arts communities can also help identify opportunities.

What is a Costume Shop?

A costume shop is a specialized facility where costumes are designed, created, altered, stored, and maintained for theater, film, television, or special events. Staffed by costume designers, seamstresses, and other professionals, these shops provide clothing and accessories that help bring characters to life on stage or screen. They may also rent or sell costumes to individuals and organizations. Costume shops play a crucial role in the production process, ensuring that costumes meet the director’s vision and are ready for performances.

How to get a costume job?

To get a costume job, applicants should gain experience in sewing, costume construction, or wardrobe management, often through internships or volunteering. Building a portfolio and networking within theater, film, or event production industries can improve chances, and familiarity with costume design software is beneficial.

What are common costume job titles?

Common costume job titles include Costume Designer, Costume Supervisor, Costume Maker, Wardrobe Supervisor, Costume Assistant, and Dressmaker. These roles involve designing, creating, fitting, and maintaining costumes for theater, film, or television productions, often requiring skills in sewing, pattern making, and knowledge of fabrics and historical styles.

What are some common challenges faced when working in a costume shop, and how can they be managed?

Working in a costume shop often involves managing tight deadlines, coordinating with multiple departments, and adapting to last-minute changes in production needs. Team members frequently collaborate with designers, performers, and directors to ensure costumes meet both creative and practical requirements. Strong organizational skills, flexibility, and clear communication are essential for handling these challenges effectively. Developing efficient workflow systems and maintaining open lines of communication with stakeholders can help the team stay on track and deliver high-quality results.

What is the difference between Costume Shop vs Costume Designer?

AspectCostume ShopCostume Designer
CredentialsTypically requires sewing, costume construction, and shop management skillsRequires design skills, fashion knowledge, and often a degree in costume design or related field
Work EnvironmentWorkshop or retail setting, producing costumes for productions or rentalsDesign studio or on-set, creating original costume concepts for performances
Employer & IndustryTheater companies, film productions, rental housesTheater companies, film and TV productions, fashion houses

While a costume shop focuses on constructing, maintaining, and supplying costumes, a costume designer is responsible for creating the visual concept and design of costumes for a production. Both roles are essential in the costume creation process but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a Costume Shop role, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Costume Shop role, you need strong garment construction, sewing, and fabric knowledge, often supported by a degree or coursework in costume design or fashion. Familiarity with tools like industrial sewing machines, fabric dyeing techniques, and costume inventory management systems is typically required. Attention to detail, creativity, time management, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with designers and performers. These abilities ensure high-quality, timely costume production and smooth operations in fast-paced theatrical or film environments.
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Costume Shop jobs near you
Infographic showing various Costume Shop job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $56,822 per year, or $27.3 per hour.
Costume Shop Manager

Costume Shop Manager

Lewis University

Romeoville, IL • On-site

Part-time

Posted 24 days ago

Lewis University rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 541 rated colleges and universities

Job description

PAF/Position Details
Position Details
Position Title
Costume Shop Manager
Position Status
Part-Time
Budget Summary
Base Pay
25.00 / hour
Position Summary Information
Job Description Summary
The Theatre Department at Lewis University produces three plays and a musical during the course of the academic year. The Costume Shop Manager will work with the faculty costume designer and other faculty members and participate in the pulling, shopping, and construction of costumes for department productions. The Costume Shop Manager will train and supervise students to work in the costume shop. Additional duties include maintenance of inventory, equipment, schedules, calendars, and budgets. The Costume Shop Manager may also expect to assist in or teach a basic costume course for undergraduate students.
Please click the link for more information about our benefits. Office of Human Resources | Benefit
Responsibilities
Responsible to model the University Mission through dedicated job performance, service excellence to constituencies, respectful collaboration and active support of the University's Mission in Catholic and Lasallian higher education.
Maintenance of costume shop, costume inventory, and equipment. Able to meet deadlines, manage budget and schedules. Assist Costume Designer in taking measurements, conducting fittings, and constructing costumes. Plan the construction time and oversee and participate in the actual construction of costumes for each production. Supervise and mentor work study students assigned to the costume shop. Oversee and assist Costume Designer during dress rehearsals.. Supervise costume strike including laundering costumes, restocking accessories, and returning costumes to storage.
Minimum Qualifications
BFA in costume technology or design. Minimum one year experience in professional live entertainment (e.g. regional theatre, cruise lines, etc.). Consideration will be given to an equivalent combination of related education and required work experience. Minimum one year experience in costume shop management or equivalent management experience. Knowledge of pattern making, cutting, draping, fabric modification, crafts, stitching and altering. Ability to supervise and mentor multiple individuals at a time, including work study students. Excellent communication and collaborative skills with students and colleagues. Excellent organizational and time management skills.
Preferred Qualifications
MFA in costume design or technology. Two to five years of leadership/supervisory work in a costume shop. Computer skills including Microsoft Office and Google Docs.
Essential Duties
Work hours
evenings and weekends
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
S01674
Posting Date
Closing Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
Special Instructions Summary

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