Costume Designer and Shop Manager
Job Description
Job Description
Bring Theater to Life at Ohio Wesleyan! Are you passionate about student success and the magic of live performance? Do you thrive on transforming stories into stunning visuals through costume design? Join Ohio Wesleyan University’s Department of Performing Arts, just 20 miles north of vibrant Columbus, as our Costume Designer and Shop Manager !
In this part-time, nine-month role (mid-August–early May), you’ll be part of a warm, creative community where faculty, staff, and students work side by side to produce exceptional stage performances. Hours vary by production schedule, giving you the chance to focus your energy when the stage lights shine brightest.
About You
You’re a hands-on, detail-driven professional who loves collaborating with students and guiding them through the craft of theater. You thrive behind the scenes, ensuring productions run seamlessly, and you bring both artistry and structure to every project. Above all, you believe in fostering an inclusive, supportive environment where creativity and learning flourish.
About Us
At OWU, the Department of Performing Arts mounts multiple productions each academic year, engaging our campus and community in bold, imaginative theater. We’re deeply committed to creativity, discovery, and human connection—and we’re looking for someone equally passionate to help bring our costume visions to life.
What You’ll Do
● Design, build, and manage costumes that elevate our productions to professional standards.
● Oversee all aspects of the costume shop, from design and construction to fittings and alterations.
● Collaborate with faculty, staff, and students, modeling professional theater practices that inspire and teach.
● Keep things running smoothly behind the scenes while mentoring students in both the artistic process and the discipline of performance production.
Minimum Qualifications
● Bachelor’s degree in Theatre, Costume Design, or related field, or equivalent professional experience. ● Demonstrated experience in both costume design and shop management.
● Strong skills in costume construction, patterning, and alterations.
● Ability to work and communicate effectively in a collaborative, liberal arts environment.
● Proficiency with Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, etc.) and relevant design/inventory technologies.
● Excellent organizational and communication skills.
What Sets You Up for Success
● Proven ability to design stage costumes within creative, budgetary, and scheduling parameters.
● A strong record of collaboration in theater education environments.
● Commitment to staying current with new design materials, practices, and construction techniques.
How to Apply
Send a cover letter and resume or CV as your application packet. Application review begins immediately and continues until the position is filled.
NOTE: Employment sponsorship is not available for this position. Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States.
What We Offer:
Ohio Wesleyan University offers a rewarding place to work!
To discover why OWU should be your next work home, visit our website. Learn more about our benefits at Discover our Benefits. As an equal opportunity institution, we do not discriminate on any basis including: race, religion, color, culture, national origin, sex and/or sexual orientation, gender, gender identity and/or expression, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status, economic barriers, or any other legally protected factor.