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Pattern Drafting Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Costume Shop Director

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$82K - $102K/yr

Knowledge of draping and pattern drafting and current costume construction techniques including machine and hand sewing, dying and fabric painting, millinery, and crafts. Familiarity with word ...

... pattern drafting and draping experience; and excellent oral and written communications skills required. An ability to work in a detail and deadline-oriented environment; and a commitment to the ...

... pattern drafting and draping experience; and excellent oral and written communications skills required. An ability to work in a detail and deadline-oriented environment; and a commitment to the ...

... pattern drafting and draping experience; and excellent oral and written communications skills required. An ability to work in a detail and deadline-oriented environment; and a commitment to the ...

... pattern drafting and draping experience; and excellent oral and written communications skills required. An ability to work in a detail and deadline-oriented environment; and a commitment to the ...

Lays out and constructs complex models and molds using blueprints, master patterns and stereo models to build molds, rubber resin tooling, determine joints and parting, add draft filets and radii ...

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Pattern Drafting information

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How much do pattern drafting jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for pattern drafting in the United States is $24.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $25.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Pattern Drafting job?

A Pattern Drafting job involves creating templates used for manufacturing clothing and other sewn products. Pattern drafters translate design concepts into precise patterns that ensure proper fit and construction. They work with designers, tailors, and manufacturers to develop patterns manually or using computer-aided design (CAD) software. Their role requires strong technical skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of fabric behavior.

How to become a pattern drafter?

To become a pattern drafter, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with training in fashion design, pattern making, or related fields. Developing skills in sewing, drafting, and using pattern-making software like Gerber or Optitex is essential, and gaining experience through internships or apprenticeships can improve job prospects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Pattern Drafting position, and why are they important?

To excel in Pattern Drafting, you should have a thorough understanding of garment construction, spatial visualization, and measurement techniques, typically supported by education in fashion design or apparel technology. Familiarity with computer-aided design (CAD) software, patternmaking tools, and sometimes certifications in technical pattern drafting are often required. Attention to detail, creativity, and strong communication skills help pattern drafters interpret design concepts and collaborate effectively with designers and production teams. These competencies are essential for producing accurate, production-ready patterns that ensure the quality and fit of finished garments.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of someone working in Pattern Drafting?

A typical day in Pattern Drafting involves creating and modifying garment patterns based on design specifications, ensuring measurements and garment details are accurately translated. Pattern drafters collaborate closely with fashion designers, sample makers, and production teams to resolve fit issues and make necessary adjustments. Daily tasks often include using CAD software, reviewing prototypes, and updating pattern libraries. This role requires a keen eye for precision and frequent communication across departments to meet production timelines and maintain design integrity.

Is pattern making a good career?

Pattern drafting is a skilled profession within the fashion and apparel industry, involving creating templates for garments. It requires knowledge of sewing, design, and fabric behavior, and can offer opportunities in fashion houses, manufacturing, and freelance work. Career growth depends on experience, technical skills, and industry demand.

How much money do pattern makers make?

Pattern makers typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled pattern makers with advanced knowledge of CAD software and sewing techniques may earn higher salaries or freelance rates.

How much do pattern cutters get paid?

Pattern cutters typically earn between $30,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects. Skilled pattern cutters with advanced knowledge of CAD software and fashion design standards tend to earn higher salaries.
More about Pattern Drafting jobs
What states have the most Pattern Drafting jobs? States with the most job openings for Pattern Drafting jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Pattern Drafting jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Pattern Drafting jobs are:
Infographic showing various Pattern Drafting job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,908 per year, or $24.5 per hour.
Costume Shop Director

Costume Shop Director

New York University

Manhattan, NY • On-site

$82K - $102K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


New York University rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 44 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

103rd of 552 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position Summary

Direct execution and construction of costumes for Theatrical Productions. Manage staff, budget, and production planning; prepare costume budget and forecasts; instruct students on costume design, communication, and construction; and assist with design of departmental productions. Supervise Staff.

Qualifications

Required Education: Bachelor's Degree Preferred Education: Master's degree in Fine Arts with a concentration in costuming Required Experience: 5+ years relevant experience or an equivalent combination. Must include experience with costume construction, theatrical productions, student instruction, administering budgets, and staff supervision. Preferred Experience: 5+ years Fine Arts in Costume Required Skills, Knowledge and Abilities: Strong organizational skills. Excellent interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills. Ability to provide technical training to non-technical audience. Knowledge of draping and pattern drafting and current costume construction techniques including machine and hand sewing, dying and fabric painting, millinery, and crafts. Familiarity with word processing, spreadsheet, and presentation software. Preferred Skills, Knowledge and Abilities: Expert in draping and pattern drafting. Professional member of United Scenic Artists or International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE). Completion of a technical training program in costume design. Completion of a Costume Construction/Design training program.

Additional Information

In compliance with NYC's Pay Transparency Act, the annual base salary range for this position is USD $82,060.98 to USD $102,060.98. New York University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, as well as, market and organizational considerations when extending an offer. This pay range represents base pay only and excludes any additional items such as incentives, bonuses, clinical compensation, or other items. NYU aims to be among the greenest urban campuses in the country and carbon neutral by 2040. Learn more at nyu.edu/nyugreen.

NYU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to a policy of equal treatment and opportunity in every aspect of its recruitment and hiring process without regard to age, alienage, caregiver status, childbirth, citizenship status, color, creed, disability, domestic violence victim status, ethnicity, familial status, gender and/or gender identity or expression, marital status, military status, national origin, parental status, partnership status, predisposing genetic characteristics, pregnancy, race, religion, reproductive health decision making, sex, sexual orientation, unemployment status, veteran status, or any other legally protected basis. All interested persons are encouraged to apply at all levels.

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About New York University

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Since its founding in 1831, NYU has been an innovator in higher education, reaching out to an emerging middle class, embracing an urban identity and professional focus, and promoting a global vision that informs its 20 schools and colleges. Today, that trailblazing spirit makes NYU one of the most prominent and respected research universities in the world, featuring top-ranked academic programs and accepting fewer than one in eight undergraduates. Anchored in New York City and with degree-granting campuses in Abu Dhabi and Shanghai as well as 12 study away sites throughout the world, NYU is a leader in global education, with more international students and more students studying abroad than any other US university.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

New York, NY, US

Year founded

1831