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Wardrobe Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Wardrobe Assistant

Chicago, IL · On-site

$42K - $45K/yr

STEPPENWOLF THEATRE COMPANY Wardrobe Assistant While grounded in the Chicago community, more than 40 original Steppenwolf productions have enjoyed success nationally and internationally, including ...

Wardrobe Assistant

Chicago, IL · On-site

$42K - $45K/yr

STEPPENWOLF THEATRE COMPANY Wardrobe Assistant While grounded in the Chicago community, more than 40 original Steppenwolf productions have enjoyed success nationally and internationally, including ...

WARDROBE ASST SHIFT MANAGER

Joliet, IL · On-site

$13 - $17.75/hr

Responsible for managing the daily operations of assigned Wardrobe. * This position is responsible for providing a high level of customer service and promoting a positive attitude to create a fun and ...

WARDROBE ASST SHIFT MANAGER

Joliet, IL · On-site

$13 - $17.75/hr

Responsible for managing the daily operations of assigned Wardrobe. * This position is responsible for providing a high level of customer service and promoting a positive attitude to create a fun and ...

WARDROBE ASST SHIFT MANAGER

Joliet, IL · On-site

$13 - $17.75/hr

Responsible for managing the daily operations of assigned Wardrobe. * This position is responsible for providing a high level of customer service and promoting a positive attitude to create a fun and ...

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Wardrobe Assistant information

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How much do wardrobe assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for wardrobe assistant in the United States is $20.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $26.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do styling assistants get paid?

Styling assistants typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the projects. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced assistants working in high-profile environments can earn higher wages. Compensation may also include benefits such as flexible schedules and opportunities to develop styling skills.

What is a wardrobe assistant called?

A wardrobe assistant is also known as a costume assistant or wardrobe stylist assistant. They help organize, maintain, and prepare costumes and clothing for productions, often working under the supervision of a wardrobe supervisor or stylist. The role requires attention to detail, organization skills, and familiarity with costume management tools.

How much do costume assistants make?

Costume assistants typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the production size. Entry-level positions may pay closer to minimum wage, while experienced assistants working on larger productions can earn higher wages or salaries. Compensation may also include benefits such as costume supplies and flexible hours.

What does a wardrobe assistant do?

A wardrobe assistant helps with costume management on film, theater, or television productions by organizing, maintaining, and preparing costumes for actors. They may assist with fittings, repairs, and ensuring costumes are ready for scenes, often working under the supervision of costume designers or wardrobe supervisors. Attention to detail and knowledge of clothing care are important skills in this role.

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

To thrive as a Wardrobe Assistant, you need a solid understanding of garment care, fashion terminology, and clothing organization, often supported by relevant experience or a qualification in fashion or costume design. Familiarity with sewing machines, steamer irons, fabric care tools, and inventory management software is typically important. Excellent attention to detail, adaptability, and strong teamwork and communication skills make a candidate stand out. These abilities help maintain costumes and wardrobes efficiently, support performers or models, and ensure productions run smoothly under tight schedules.

What does a typical day look like for a Wardrobe Assistant on set or backstage?

A typical day for a Wardrobe Assistant often starts with organizing costumes and ensuring all items are clean, pressed, and ready for use. During rehearsals or filming, the assistant helps performers with quick changes, carries out minor repairs, and monitors costume continuity. Teamwork is essential, as you’ll regularly collaborate with costume designers, dressers, and performers to address last-minute requests or adjustments. The work environment can be fast-paced, especially during live performances or shoots, requiring flexibility and a calm, solution-oriented approach. Gaining experience in this role can open doors to more senior positions such as Wardrobe Supervisor or Costume Designer.

What is a Wardrobe Assistant job?

A Wardrobe Assistant helps with the selection, organization, and maintenance of costumes or outfits for film, TV, theater, or photoshoots. They assist in fittings, ensure costumes are prepared and properly stored, and may handle last-minute adjustments. Their role is crucial in maintaining continuity and supporting the smooth operation of wardrobe departments during productions.

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What cities are hiring for Wardrobe Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Wardrobe Assistant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Wardrobe jobs? The most popular types of Wardrobe jobs are:
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Infographic showing various Wardrobe Assistant job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, and 28% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,829 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

$42K - $45K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 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 — 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. 

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. 

 

HOW TO APPLY:

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

STEPPENWOLF 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. 

Steppenwolf Core Values: Ensemble; Innovation; Cultural Citizenship

 

 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.