Costume Assistant

Oregon Shakespeare Festival • Ashland, OR

1d • $25 • Onsite

About The Position

The Oregon Shakespeare Festival (OSF) is seeking a collaborative and detail-oriented Costume Assistant to support the work of our Costume Department across both the Costume Shop and Costume Rentals. This role is ideal for someone early in their costume career who enjoys hands-on work, thrives in a fast-paced environment, and is excited to support world-class theatre through organization, craftsmanship, and teamwork. As a Costume Assistant, you’ll provide essential support to Costume Project Managers and the Costume Rentals team during production builds and rental operations. From preparing garments and organizing fittings to packing and shipping rental orders, your work will help ensure costumes are performance-ready, accurately documented, and beautifully maintained. You’ll also play a role in fostering an inclusive, safe, and respectful work environment aligned with OSF’s IDEA values.

Requirements

• Have at least 1 year of experience assisting costume designers or working in costume rentals.
• Are able to prioritize tasks, follow instructions, and adapt to changing needs.
• Communicate clearly and respectfully, including around body proportions, hair textures, skin tones, and gender expression.
• Have a foundational understanding of textiles, costume styling, color relationships, and costume materials.
• Are comfortable using Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and cloud-based collaboration systems.
• Value teamwork, confidentiality, and maintaining a safe, inclusive working environment.
• Ability to lift and move items up to 30 lbs occasionally.
• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods and climb stairs as needed.

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge of global garment and costume history.

Responsibilities

• Assist Costume Project Managers and the Costume Rentals Administrator with daily operations in the shop and rental spaces.
• Fill costume rental orders using Rental Tracker Pro, including selecting, packing, and shipping garments and accessories.
• Update and maintain costume rental inventory by writing descriptions and photographing items.
• Organize, restock, relabel, and maintain rental and shop inventory.
• Support pre-show build preparation, fittings, and documentation (measurements, fitting notes, dressing sheets, and piece lists).
• Process fabrics and garments; clean and sanitize costumes and accessories as needed.
• Assist with load-ins, load-outs, strikes, and supply deliveries between Ashland and Talent campuses.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of shared shop spaces, equipment, and supply areas.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed