Wardrobe Designer

Position Purpose:

The Wardrobe Designer is responsible for translating approved creative concepts into fully realized, camera- and stage-ready costumes. Working under the direction of the Wardrobe Supervisor and in collaboration with the creative team, this role spans design development, historical research, material sourcing, garment construction, fitting, and quality oversight.

Essential Duties:

• Review AI-generated character visuals and creative direction to understand character personality, era, setting, color palette, and tone.
• Conduct historical and cultural research to ensure accuracy in period details, textiles, construction methods, aging, and social context.
• Provide research-based feedback to support refinement and approval of costume designs.
• Translate approved concepts into execution-ready sketches and fabrication plans.
• Research, source, and evaluate fabrics, trims, and materials for historical accuracy, durability, comfort, camera-readiness, and budget.
• Present fabric swatches and material samples for approval and coordinate availability and lead times with the Wardrobe Supervisor.
• Construct costumes based on approved designs and fabrication plans.
• Create, adapt, or modify patterns to achieve proper fit, silhouette, and period-appropriate construction.
• Perform tailoring, alterations, repairs, reinforcements, and finishing on fabricated, rented, or purchased garments.
• Execute closures, linings, hems, and structural elements to ensure longevity and performance-readiness.
• Participate in costume fittings and provide creative and technical guidance.
• Record fitting notes, measurements, and modification instructions accurately.
• Complete post-fitting alterations to ensure comfort, mobility, and visual continuity.
• Maintain consistency across costumes in quality, color, fabric, aging, and finish throughout production.
• Ensure all adjustments preserve the approved design vision.
• Work closely with the Wardrobe Supervisor, Art Integrator, Casting Director, and production team.
• Communicate clearly regarding design decisions, construction updates, and problem-solving solutions.
• Maintain an organized workspace and support an efficient, collaborative wardrobe department.
• Other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Accurately translates approved visual concepts into finished costumes without drifting from the intended look.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Advanced sewing, tailoring, and pattern-making abilities with a professional, camera-ready finish.
• Maintains consistency in silhouette, materials, aging, and quality across scenes and productions.
• Designs and builds costumes with durability, comfort, movement, sound, and performance demands in mind.
• Identifies and resolves design, fit, or construction challenges while preserving creative intent.
• Must be able to operate a Windows-based computer and navigate Microsoft Office Suite.
• Works effectively within a fast-paced, team-driven production environment, meeting timelines and quality standards.

Requirements:

• Must have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
• Must sign the Statement of Faith.
• A high school diploma or equivalent education is required.
• A Charis Bible College student or graduate is preferred. 
• Must be trustworthy to uphold the ministry vision and execute plans as directed. 
• Must pass all required checks.

Experience:

• Compensation is commensurate with experience.