A Costume Attendant is responsible for managing, maintaining, and organizing costumes for theatrical, film, or television productions. They ensure that each costume is ready for use, fits appropriately, and meets the aesthetic requirements of the production.
Education: High school diploma or equivalent
Years in related career: None
On-the-job training: Short-term
Projected Growth: 5.0% (above average)
Annual job openings: 1 800
Direct AI exposure: 0% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 47% of tasks
| Income data is from Employment and Social Development Canada's 2025 wage tables. The closest match for this career in Canada’s occupational classification system is Motion Pictures, Broadcasting, Photography and Performing Arts Assistants and Operators. According to the wage tables, average income is $56K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $37K per year | $42K per year | $56K per year | $73K per year | $83K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $9.26K below the national average. | ||||
Costume Attendants typically work backstage in theaters, on movie sets, or at television studios. Their work environment is fast-paced, especially during productions, requiring flexibility to work various hours including evenings, weekends, and possibly travel for location shoots.
Costume Attendants play a crucial role in the visual storytelling of a production. They work closely with costume designers to bring a character's wardrobe to life, which involves a deep understanding of the script, character development, and the overall vision of the production. This role requires a blend of creativity, attention to detail, and practical skills like sewing and costume construction.
The job is hands-on and can be quite demanding, especially close to and during performances. Costume Attendants must be able to work quickly and efficiently, often under tight time constraints. They must be adaptable, able to solve problems on the spot, such as making last-minute repairs or adjustments to costumes. Good communication and interpersonal skills are essential, as they work closely with a diverse team, including actors, directors, and other production staff.
A career as a Costume Attendant offers the opportunity to be an integral part of the creative process in the performing arts and entertainment industry. It's a role well-suited for those who have a passion for fashion and costume design, enjoy collaborative work, and thrive in dynamic, fast-paced environments.
Although formal education beyond high school is not always required, many Costume Attendants have some post-secondary training in fashion, costume design, or a related field. On-the-job training is common, and experience in sewing and costume construction is highly beneficial.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.