1

Costuming Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Costume Designer Full or Part Time: Part time Hours: 20 Exempt: No Supervisory Org: Theater Staff (PM) JOB SUMMARY: The Department of Theatre at Saginaw Valley State University invites applications ...

Skydance Animation is seeking a Costume Designer to lead the design and execution of wardrobe across all characters, from leads to crowds, ensuring visual consistency throughout our film. As a key ...

Costume Designer

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$2.9K - $4.0K/wk

Skydance Animation is seeking a Costume Designer to lead the design and execution of wardrobe across all characters, from leads to crowds, ensuring visual consistency throughout our film. As a key ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Costuming information

See salary details

$8

$26

$61

How much do costuming jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for costuming in the United States is $26.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $30.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is costuming?

Costuming refers to the creation, selection, and management of clothing and accessories worn by performers in theater, film, television, and other productions. Costumers work to design or source outfits that help portray characters, support the story, and reflect the time period and setting. Their responsibilities often include research, fittings, alterations, and collaborating closely with directors and other creative staff to achieve the desired look. Good costuming enhances character development and adds authenticity to a performance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a costumer?

To thrive as a Costumer, you need strong skills in garment construction, fabric knowledge, and costume design, often backed by a degree or certification in fashion, costume design, or a related field. Familiarity with sewing machines, pattern-making software, and textile care techniques is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and effective collaboration set exceptional Costumers apart. These abilities are crucial for translating artistic visions into functional, high-quality costumes that meet production demands and deadlines.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in costuming for theater or film productions?

Costuming professionals often face tight deadlines and last-minute changes, especially during tech rehearsals or filming. Balancing creative vision with practical constraints, such as budget limitations and actor comfort, is a frequent challenge. Additionally, maintaining and repairing costumes throughout a run or shoot requires strong organizational skills and adaptability. Collaboration with directors, performers, and other departments is key to ensuring costumes support both the story and the technical needs of the production.

What is the difference between Costuming vs Costume Design?

AspectCostumingCostume Design
CredentialsOften includes costume construction, sewing, and wardrobe management skillsRequires design skills, fashion knowledge, and creative concept development
Work EnvironmentTheatrical productions, film sets, TV shows, eventsDesign studios, production offices, costume departments
Industry UsageUsed by costume departments for wardrobe management and assemblyUsed by designers to create original costume concepts and sketches

Costuming involves assembling, fitting, and maintaining costumes, often focusing on wardrobe management. Costume design emphasizes creating original costume concepts and sketches. While both roles collaborate closely, costumers handle the practical aspects, and costume designers focus on the creative vision.

Does costume design pay well?

Costume design salaries vary based on experience, location, and industry, with many professionals earning moderate to high wages in film, theater, and television. Entry-level designers often earn less, while experienced designers working on major productions can earn significantly more, especially with strong portfolios and industry connections.

How to get a job in costuming?

To get a job in costuming, develop skills in sewing, pattern making, and fabric selection, often through formal education or apprenticeships. Building a portfolio of costume work and gaining experience through internships or volunteer projects can improve employment prospects in theater, film, or fashion industries.

How to start costuming?

To start a career in costuming, gain basic sewing skills through classes or online tutorials and practice creating garments or accessories. Building a portfolio of your work and understanding costume design principles can help you find entry-level opportunities in theater, film, or events. Familiarity with fabric types, pattern making, and costume construction tools is also beneficial.
More about Costuming jobs

What cities are hiring for Costuming jobs?

Cities with the most Costuming job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Costuming jobs?

The most popular types of Costuming jobs are:

What states have the most Costuming jobs?

States with the most job openings for Costuming jobs include:

Infographic showing various Costuming job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 24% Full Time, 71% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $54,791 per year, or $26.3 per hour.

$17 - $19/hr

Part-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Division/Department: Special Events

Job Title: Costuming Staff

Reports To: Special Events Coordinator

Type of position: Non-Exempt, Hourly

Employee Classification: Part Time- Seasonal

Pay Range: $17 - $19

Location: Durango, CO

Job Summary

The Costuming staff is responsible for the maintenance, cleaning, and organization of all The Polar Express Train RideTM costumes. The Costuming staff will organize the dressing room, keeping it clean and presentable, assist in checking in actors and volunteers daily, and check each costume daily for tears, missing buttons, and stains.

  • Distribute and receive costumes to/from actors
  • Keep costume zircons clean
  • Repair costumes as needed
  • Launder the costumes daily
  • Ability to work evenings, weekends, holidays, and extended seasonal hours

Qualifications

  • Must be able to sew
  • Must have knowledge of measurements, tailoring, and mending clothes
  • Experience in theatrical costuming is preferred
  • Must be able to move up to 50lbs
  • Must have valid Drivers License and be 18 or older