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Costume Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

University of Rochester

Stage Assistant

Rochester, NY · On-site

$21.78 - $30.53/hr

This includes working in the costume shop and may include cutting, draping and building of costumes and the application and preparation of make-up and wigs for EOT productions and special projects.

University of Rochester

Stage Assistant

Rochester, NY · On-site

$21.78 - $30.53/hr

This includes working in the costume shop and may include cutting, draping and building of costumes and the application and preparation of make-up and wigs for EOT productions and special projects.

SUNY Geneseo

Adjunct Lecturer - Theatre

Geneseo, NY · On-site

THEA 233 Stage Make-up * THEA 234 History of Western Costume through the 18th Century * THEA 241 Fundamentals of Design for the Theatre * THEA 254 History of Western Costume Since the 18th Century ...

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Costume information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$10

$18

$37

How much do costume jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for costume in Rochester, NY is $18.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.27 and $23.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are costume designers and what do they do?

Costume designers are professionals responsible for creating the clothing and outfits worn by actors in theater, film, television, and other performances. They work closely with directors, set designers, and actors to develop costumes that reflect the characters, setting, and time period of the production. Their role often involves researching historical styles, selecting fabrics, overseeing fittings, and managing budgets to ensure that the costumes help bring the story and characters to life.

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 textile knowledge, often supported by a degree in costume or fashion design. Familiarity with design software like Adobe Creative Suite, sewing machines, and fabric dyeing techniques is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, strong communication, and collaboration make someone stand out in this position. These skills ensure costumes effectively convey character, support storytelling, and meet production demands within tight deadlines.

What is the difference between Costume vs Makeup Artist?

AspectCostumeMakeup Artist
Required CredentialsNone specific, often self-taught or basic sewing skillsCosmetology license, certifications in makeup artistry
Work EnvironmentTheatrical, film, events, retail storesSalons, film sets, theater, special events
Industry UsageDesigning and providing clothing and accessories for performances or eventsApplying makeup to enhance or transform appearance for performances or photoshoots

While both costumes and makeup artists work in entertainment and event settings, costumes focus on clothing and accessories, whereas makeup artists specialize in facial and body makeup. They often collaborate but require different skills and certifications. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or service provider.

What are some common challenges a costume designer faces when working on a fast-paced production?

Costume designers often encounter tight deadlines and frequent last-minute changes, especially in fast-paced productions like television or live theater. Balancing creative vision with budget constraints can also be challenging, as designers must source or create costumes that fit both the director's concept and the production's financial limits. Effective communication and flexibility are essential, as designers frequently collaborate with directors, actors, and other departments to ensure costumes are functional, comfortable, and visually cohesive.
What are popular job titles related to Costume jobs in Rochester, NY? For Costume jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Costume jobs in Rochester, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Costume jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Costume jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Costume job openings:
Costume jobs near you
Infographic showing various Costume job openings in Rochester, NY as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,151 per year, or $18.8 per hour.
Stage Assistant

Stage Assistant

University of Rochester

Rochester, NY • On-site

$21.78 - $30.53/hr

Other

Posted yesterday

University Of Rochester rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 185 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

123rd of 612 rated colleges and universities

Job description

As a community, the University of Rochester is defined by a deep commitment to Meliora - Ever Better. Embedded in that ideal are the values we share: equity, leadership, integrity, openness, respect, and accountability. Together, we will set the highest standards for how we treat each other to ensure our community is welcoming to all and is a place where all can thrive.

Job Location (Full Address):

26 Gibbs Str, Rochester, New York, United States of America, 14604

Opening:

Worker Subtype:

Regular

Time Type:

Time as Reported / Per Diem

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

As Scheduled

Department:

300950 ESM Opera

Work Shift:

Range:

UR URG 106 H

Compensation Range:

$21.78 - $30.53

The referenced pay range represents the minimum and maximum compensation for this job. Individual annual salaries/hourly rates will be set within the job's compensation range, and will be determined by considering factors including, but not limited to, market data, education, experience, qualifications, expertise of the individual, and internal equity considerations.

Responsibilities:

Under the direction of faculty and supervisory staff, stage assistants will prepare costumes for special projects and performances, arrange wig and makeup design for productions. This includes working in the costume shop and may include cutting, draping and building of costumes and the application and preparation of make-up and wigs for EOT productions and special projects.

Specific Responsibilities:
- Preparing and creation of make-up, wigs and costuming for Eastman productions.
- Assembling and arranging equipment, props related to costuming on stage for each production prior to and during the performance.
- Clean up and tear-down and proper storage of props and costumes, wigs, etc. at completion of production.
Qualifications:
One year related experience. Knowledge and/or familiarity with all stage equipment. Awareness of safety at all times. Good communication and concentration skills. Ability to read and write English, and to understand and follow verbal and written instructions. Ability to lift items up to and including 25 pounds.

The University of Rochester is committed to fostering, cultivating, and preserving an inclusive and welcoming culture to advance the University's Mission to Learn, Discover, Heal, Create - and Make the World Ever Better. In support of our values and those of our society, the University is committed to not discriminating on the basis of age, color, disability, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, military/veteran status, national origin, race, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, citizenship status,or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law (Protected Characteristics). This commitment extends to non-discrimination in the administration of our policies, admissions, employment, access, and recruitment of candidates, for all persons consistent with our values and based on applicable law.

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