WinterWorld RVA is seeking a dependable, organized, and enthusiastic Wardrobe/Costume Staff to support the daily operation of the Wardrobe Department during Richmond's premier holiday event. This behind-the-scenes role helps create magical guest experiences by ensuring costumes worn by Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus, elves, and WW Mascot are clean, safe, properly fitted, and performance-ready. The ideal candidate enjoys working in a fast-paced theatrical environment, has basic sewing skills, pays close attention to detail, and enjoys supporting performers as part of a collaborative entertainment team. 

·      Launder, steam, press, sanitize, and maintain costumes according to department standards. 

·      Inspect costumes daily for stains, damage, missing buttons, broken zippers, and general wear. 

·      Properly hang, store, and organize costumes to maximize their lifespan. 

·      Maintain costume appearance throughout operating hours. 

·      Perform hand and machine sewing repairs including hems, seams, buttons, zippers, Velcro, snaps, and minor alterations. 

·      Respond quickly to costume emergencies during performances. 

·      Maintain repair records and report major repair needs to the Stage Manager. 

·      Assist with costume fittings before and during the season. 

·      Help performers dress before performances and assist with quick costume changes when needed. 

·      Ensure costumes fit properly while maintaining character appearance standards. 

·      Maintain professionalism and confidentiality when working with performers. 

·      Preset costumes before performer call times. 

·      Track costume check-in/check-out and maintain inventory. 

·      Organize dressing rooms, laundry areas, storage rooms, and wardrobe workspaces. 

·      Report missing or damaged costume pieces. 

·      Assist with opening, closing, inventory, and end-of-season costume storage. 

·      Follow all safety policies and wardrobe procedures. 

·      Maintain clean, organized work areas. 

·      Work collaboratively with entertainment, stage management, and operations teams. 

·      Bring own sewing kit and supplies to work.

·      Perform other duties as assigned. 

 

·      High school diploma or equivalent. 

·      One year of experience in theatre wardrobe, costume shop, apparel production, or a related field preferred. 

·      Basic knowledge of garment construction, fabric care, and costume maintenance. 

·      Ability to hand sew and operate a sewing machine. 

·      Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills. 

·      Ability to work independently and as part of a team. 

·      Reliable attendance throughout the seasonal operating period. 
 

·      Experience in live entertainment, theatre, theme parks, festivals, or performing arts. 

·      Knowledge of theatrical quick changes, costume inventory, and wig care. 

 

·      Strong attention to detail 

·      Excellent time management 

·      Professional appearance and demeanor 

·      Ability to remain calm under pressure 

·      Flexibility in a fast-paced environment 

·      Commitment to maintaining high costume presentation standards 

·      Lift and carry up to 35 pounds. 

·      Stand and walk for extended periods (up to 8 hours). 

·      Perform repetitive hand movements including sewing, ironing, steaming, and garment handling. 

·      Push and pull rolling costume racks. 

·      Work indoors and outdoors in varying winter weather conditions. 

·      This position operates in a fast-paced live entertainment environment with backstage activity, theatrical lighting and sound, varying temperatures, evening and holiday schedules, and frequent interaction with performers and entertainment staff.

At WinterWorld RVA, wardrobe is more than costumes—it's an essential part of the storytelling. Every perfectly prepared costume helps create unforgettable holiday memories for thousands of guests. If you're passionate about theatre, costumes, and live entertainment, we'd love to have you join our team.

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, gender identity, marital or veteran status, or any other protected class.