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Costume Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AMDA

Assistant Costume Shop Manager

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$33 - $34/hr

Knowledge, ability, and experience in costume coordination or costume design. * Excellent hand and machine sewing skills. * Excellent organization and communication skills. * Ability to remain ...

AMDA

Assistant Costume Shop Manager

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$33 - $34/hr

Knowledge, ability, and experience in costume coordination or costume design. * Excellent hand and machine sewing skills. * Excellent organization and communication skills. * Ability to remain ...

AMDA

Assistant Costume Shop Manager

Los Angeles, CA

$33 - $34/hr

Knowledge, ability, and experience in costume coordination or costume design. * Excellent hand and machine sewing skills. * Excellent organization and communication skills. * Ability to remain ...

AMDA

Assistant Costume Shop Manager

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Knowledge, ability, and experience in costume coordination or costume design. * Excellent hand and machine sewing skills. * Excellent organization and communication skills. * Ability to remain ...

University of Arizona

Stitcher, Costume Shop

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$18.15 - $22.69/hr

Degree or certification in Costume Design, Fashion Design, Theatre Arts, or a related field is preferred. * Experience in altering and repairing garments, which requires a good eye for detail and the ...

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How much do costume design jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for costume design in the United States is $19.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $24.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is costume design?

Costume design is the art of creating clothing and outfits for characters in theater, film, television, and other performance arts. Costume designers work closely with directors and other creative team members to develop looks that help convey the story, era, personality, and setting of each character. Their responsibilities include researching historical periods, selecting fabrics, sketching designs, collaborating with costume makers, and fitting actors. The ultimate goal is to enhance storytelling through visually appropriate and expressive costumes.

How does a costume designer typically collaborate with directors and other creative departments during a production?

Costume designers work closely with directors to understand the overall vision and mood of a production, ensuring that costumes accurately reflect the characters and setting. They also regularly coordinate with set and lighting designers to maintain visual harmony and consider practical aspects like movement and quick changes. Effective communication and flexibility are essential, as adjustments often need to be made throughout rehearsals based on feedback from the creative team and performers. This collaborative process is key to delivering cohesive and impactful storytelling through costume.

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 costume history, usually supported by a degree in costume or fashion design. Proficiency in design software like Adobe Creative Suite, pattern-making tools, and fabric sourcing systems is typically expected. Creativity, attention to detail, collaboration, and strong communication skills help Costume Designers excel in interpreting scripts and working with directors and cast. These skills are vital for bringing characters to life, ensuring visual consistency, and contributing to the overall storytelling of a production.

What is the difference between Costume Design vs Wardrobe Supervisor?

AspectCostume DesignWardrobe Supervisor
CredentialsFashion or costume design degree, portfolioExperience in wardrobe management, sometimes fashion background
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, film, theater, TV setsOn-set, backstage, costume departments
Employer & Industry UsageFilm, TV, theater productions, fashion showsFilm, TV, theater, live performances

Costume Designers create original costumes based on character needs and director vision, focusing on design and aesthetics. Wardrobe Supervisors manage existing costumes, oversee fittings, and ensure continuity during production. While both roles work closely in costume departments, Costume Design emphasizes creative design, whereas Wardrobe Supervision centers on management and logistics.

How can I become a costume designer?

To become a costume designer, you typically need a bachelor's degree in fashion design, costume design, or a related field, along with experience in sewing, pattern making, and understanding of fabrics. Building a portfolio of your work and gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions in theater, film, or television can help establish your career. Knowledge of industry tools like CAD software and strong collaboration skills are also important.

How much do costume designers get paid?

Costume designers' salaries vary based on experience, location, and project scope. According to industry data, the median annual salary for costume designers is around $60,000, with entry-level positions starting lower and experienced designers earning over $100,000. Many work on a freelance basis or per project, and skills in sewing, fabric selection, and costume construction are essential.

How to get into a costume design job?

To pursue a costume design job, develop a strong portfolio showcasing your work, gain experience through internships or assistant roles, and build skills in sewing, illustration, and fabric selection. A background in fashion, theater, or fine arts can be beneficial, and familiarity with costume construction tools and software is often required.

What qualifications do you need to be a costume designer?

To become a costume designer, a bachelor's degree in fashion design, theater, or a related field is often required. Relevant skills include creativity, knowledge of fabrics and sewing, and experience with design software; internships or portfolio work can also enhance job prospects.
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costume design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Costume Design job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 55% Full Time, 40% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,680 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Fall Play Fight Costume Designer

San Francisco University High School

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$3.5K/wk

Part-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Description:

About San Francisco University High School:

UHS is a coeducational independent day school in San Francisco, California, with 514 students in grades 9-12. Founded in 1975, the school’s mission is to challenge each individual to live a life of integrity, inquiry, and purpose larger than the self. UHS is located in the Pacific Heights neighborhood of San Francisco.


The Costume Designer & Wardrobe Manager plans, creates, and oversees all attire, hair, and makeup concepts for the high school’s annual fall production. Beyond design, this role actively manages dressing room operations, guiding student actors through costuming choices, fit checks, and quick changes during dress rehearsals and live performances.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Design & Concept Development: Collaborate with the Director to create a cohesive visual concept tailored to the play’s setting, tone, and budget.
  • Sourcing & Creation: Build, pull from storage, alter, or purchase necessary garments, accessories, and props while maintaining strict record-keeping.
  • Actor Fitting & Styling: Conduct fittings with student actors, ensuring costumes fit comfortably, allow for required stage movement, and honor student safety and dignity.
  • Backstage & Dressing Supervision: Oversee dressing rooms during dress rehearsals and performances; teach student actors proper garment care, styling, and efficient backstage quick-changes.
  • Inventory & Maintenance: Organize wardrobe racks before show nights, handle minor repairs between performances, and lead the post-production clean-out and inventory strike.
Requirements:

Qualifications:

  • Experience in theatrical costume design, wardrobe styling, or garment construction.
  • Basic sewing, tailoring, and garment repair skills.
  • Strong organizational skills and ability to manage production budgets.
  • Demonstrated patience, positive communication, and enthusiasm for mentoring high school students in a collaborative creative environment.
Compensation:

This is a seasonal, part-time position.  Compensation: $3,500.00


Non-Discrimination Statement:

University High School values diversity and seeks talented students, faculty, and staff from different backgrounds. All employment decisions are made without regard to unlawful considerations of race, color, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, and related medical conditions), gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, religion, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, creed, age, mental or physical disability, medical condition, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other basis prohibited by federal, state, or local law.


Application Process: 

Apply through the school’s website.

Apply