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Costuming Assistant Jobs in Park Ridge, IL (NOW HIRING)

Wardrobe Assistant

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$42K - $45K/yr

... of costumes, hair/wigs, and makeup) and additionally assists with the general needs of the ... The Wardrobe Assistant reports to the Hair, Makeup, & Wardrobe Supervisor and collaborates closely ...

Dance Instructor

Naperville, IL ยท On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Select costumes for recital, work within a budget and determine sizes for each student. Hand out ... * Assist with dance studio set-up and functionality; such as, setting up/taking down chairs ...

Dance Instructor

Naperville, IL ยท On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Select costumes for recital, work within a budget and determine sizes for each student. Hand out ... * Assist with dance studio set-up and functionality; such as, setting up/taking down chairs ...

New

Dance Instructor

Morton Grove, IL ยท On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Select music and costumes for each dance performance. * Keep an open line of communication with the ... At no time should an instructor or assistant be in a closed room alone with a child, either another ...

... costumes for both performances. -Coordinate flower and candy sellers for both performances. -Assist in typing performance programs as needed. -Communicate with teachers regarding performances, master ...

... costumes for both performances. -Coordinate flower and candy sellers for both performances. -Assist in typing performance programs as needed. -Communicate with teachers regarding performances, master ...

Twin Peaks Girl

Warrenville, IL ยท On-site

$14.50 - $19/hr

Maintain and adhere to Twin Peaks Image & Costume Guidelines at all times while on shift ... Maintain knowledge of menu items, including food, beverages, and promotions. * Assist with pre ...

Twin Peaks Girl

Oakbrook Terrace, IL ยท On-site

$14 - $18.50/hr

Maintain and adhere to Twin Peaks Image & Costume Guidelines at all times while on shift ... Maintain knowledge of menu items, including food, beverages, and promotions. * Assist with pre ...

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Costuming Assistant information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Costuming Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Costuming Assistant, you need a solid understanding of garment construction, fabric types, and basic sewing skills, often supported by experience or training in costume or fashion design. Familiarity with tools such as sewing machines, fabric care equipment, and inventory tracking systems is typically required. Attention to detail, time management, and strong communication help ensure smooth collaboration and the timely completion of costume tasks. These skills are crucial for maintaining costume quality, meeting production deadlines, and supporting the creative vision of a performance or film.

What is the difference between Costuming Assistant vs Costume Designer?

AspectCostuming AssistantCostume Designer
CredentialsOften high school diploma or equivalent; some experience in costume workFormal education in fashion, theater, or related fields; extensive experience
Work EnvironmentAssist in costume preparation, fittings, and maintenance on set or stageDesigning costumes, creating sketches, and overseeing costume production
Industry UsageCommonly employed in theater, film, and TV productions as support staff

The main difference is that a Costuming Assistant supports the costume department by handling tasks like fittings and maintenance, while a Costume Designer is responsible for creating and designing the costumes. The assistant role is more hands-on and supportive, whereas the designer leads the creative process.

What are some common challenges faced by Costuming Assistants during large-scale productions?

Costuming Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing last-minute alterations, ensuring the correct costumes are available and in good condition for quick changes, and maintaining clear communication with designers, performers, and stage management. During large-scale productions, the fast-paced environment can require strong organizational skills and the ability to troubleshoot unexpected wardrobe malfunctions. Successful Costuming Assistants stay flexible, solution-oriented, and proactive in supporting the entire costume department to keep the show running smoothly.

What are Costuming Assistants?

Costuming Assistants are professionals who support costume designers and wardrobe departments in theater, film, television, or live events. They help with sourcing, organizing, altering, and maintaining costumes, as well as assisting performers with quick changes during productions. Their role is essential to ensure costumes are ready, in good condition, and appropriate for each scene or performance. Costuming Assistants may also keep records, manage costume inventories, and help with fittings. This position requires attention to detail, organization skills, and the ability to work well under time constraints.
What cities near Park Ridge, IL are hiring for Costuming Assistant jobs? Cities near Park Ridge, IL with the most Costuming Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Costuming Assistant job openings in Park Ridge, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Part Time, and 50% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Wardrobe Assistant

STEPPENWOLF THEATER CO

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

$42K - $45K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

STEPPENWOLF THEATRE COMPANY

Wardrobe Assistant

While grounded in the Chicago community, more than 40 original Steppenwolf productions have enjoyed success nationally and internationally, including Broadway, Off-Broadway, London, Sydney, Galway and Dublin. Steppenwolf also holds accolades that include the National Medal of Arts, 14 Tony Awards, two Pulitzer Prize-winning commissions and more. Led by Artistic Directors Glenn Davis and Audrey Francis, Executive Director E. Brooke Flanagan and Board of Trustees Chair Keating Crown โ€” Steppenwolf continually redefines the boundaries of live theater and pushes the limits of acting and performance.

Wardrobe Assistant

Steppenwolf Theatre Company is seeking candidates for the full-time position of Wardrobe Assistant.

This position has a primary focus in running shows (including the application and maintenance of costumes, hair/wigs, and makeup) and additionally assists with the general needs of the department, including show planning and organization. The schedule varies based on the needs of each production, often including evening and weekend hours.

The Wardrobe Assistant reports to the Hair, Makeup, & Wardrobe Supervisor and collaborates closely with the Assistant Wardrobe Supervisor.

Areas of Responsibility:

  • Run select productions and special events as a dresser, including daily preshow preparations (ironing, steaming, maintenance, and mending), assisting actor hair/makeup/dressing prior to each performance, executing costume presets, facilitating in-show costume changes, and post show laundering/cleanup.
  • Continuously organize, maintain, and restock Wardrobe workspaces.
  • Assist in the creation and maintenance of archival paperwork.
  • Assist the Hair, Makeup & Wardrobe Supervisor and Assistant Wardrobe Supervisor in proactively collaborating with the costume shop, costume designers, actors, wig designer/makers, barbers/hair stylists, and vendors to realize and maintain designs.
  • Help ensure that work environments are safe, humane, and respectful.

Successful candidates will have:

  • 1-2 years of Wardrobe experience working in a professional theatre environment.
  • Strong organizational and time management skills with great attention to detail.
  • Demonstrated ability to remain flexible and solution-driven with creative problem-solving and a willingness to seek and advocate for learning opportunities and growth.
  • Excellent communication skills, with an ability to interact with a diverse range of collaborators and creative processes.
  • Experience in theatrical hair, wig, and make-up techniques preferred.
  • Basic computer skills (including familiarity with Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and Dropbox) with the ability to adapt and adopt new software and computer systems.
  • Working knowledge of basic hand and machine sewing.
  • Ability to work independently as well as within a team.
  • Commitment to working with diverse groups in terms of gender expression, race, sexual orientation, religion, ability, age, class, and immigrant status.ย 

COMPENSATION:

This is a Full-Time position with a salary range of $42,019 - $45,000, per year with excellent benefits package, medical, dental, vision insurance, short-term and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, vacation pay, paid sick time, personal days, Ventra transit benefit program, employee assistance program and 401(k) matching retirement program.ย 

ย 

HOW TO APPLY:

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume and three references.

STEPPENWOLFย MISSION:

Steppenwolf strives to create thrilling, courageous and provocative art in a thoughtful and inclusive environment. We succeed when we disrupt your routine with experiences that spark curiosity, empathy and joy. We invite you to join our ensemble as we navigate, together, our complex world. steppenwolf.org, facebook.com/steppenwolftheatre, twitter.com/steppenwolfthtr and instagram.com/steppenwolfthtr.ย 

Steppenwolf Coreย Values: Ensemble; Innovation; Cultural Citizenship

ย 

ย NO PHONE CALLS OR EMAILS PLEASE

Steppenwolf Theatre Company is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. We provide equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Steppenwolf complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.