Costumer – Scaregrounds PDX 2026
Bring the Monsters to Life Through Costume Design!
Scaregrounds PDX is looking for a creative, organized, and detail-oriented Costumer to oversee the wardrobe department for the 2026 Halloween season at Oaks Amusement Park.
As the Costumer, you'll be responsible for creating, sourcing, fitting, maintaining, and organizing costumes for our cast of monsters, creatures, and characters. You'll work closely with the Makeup Department, Cast Director, Scenic Team, and Attraction Managers to create cohesive and immersive character designs that help bring each haunted attraction to life.
If you have a passion for costume design, sewing, horror aesthetics, and themed entertainment, we'd love to have you join our production team.
Position Overview
The Costumer manages all aspects of the wardrobe department, from preseason planning and fittings to nightly maintenance and end-of-season inventory. You'll ensure every performer looks show-ready while maintaining costumes throughout the Halloween season.
ResponsibilitiesCostume Design & Planning
- Develop costume concepts for haunted attractions and walk-around characters
- Source, build, alter, and distress costumes to match each attraction's theme
- Coordinate costume designs with the Makeup Department and Scenic Design team
- Create costume reference guides and character documentation
Wardrobe Management
- Conduct performer fittings and assign costumes
- Organize costume storage, labeling, and tracking systems
- Maintain detailed inventory of costumes, accessories, and wardrobe supplies
- Ensure costumes are cleaned, repaired, and ready for nightly use
Operations
- Prepare costumes prior to opening each evening
- Assist performers with wardrobe needs and quick changes
- Perform emergency costume repairs during operating hours
- Monitor costume quality and replace damaged items as necessary
- Maintain a clean, organized, and efficient wardrobe area
Inventory & Purchasing
- Create preseason wardrobe budgets and supply lists
- Purchase or fabricate costumes and accessories within budget
- Track inventory throughout the season
- Recommend replacement or new costume pieces for future seasons
End of Season
- Clean, repair, and properly store all costumes and accessories
- Conduct a complete inventory and condition assessment
- Organize wardrobe for efficient setup in future seasons
- Provide recommendations for costume improvements and additions
Qualifications
- Experience in costume design, wardrobe management, theater, cosplay, or fashion preferred
- Basic sewing and garment alteration skills
- Ability to organize and manage a large costume inventory
- Strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills
- Ability to work independently while collaborating with multiple departments
- Comfortable working in a fast-paced, live entertainment environment
Preferred Experience
- Haunted attractions
- Theatrical costume design
- Theme parks or immersive entertainment
- Costume distressing and aging techniques
- Pattern making
- Fabric dyeing and painting
- Wig styling and accessories
- Industrial sewing equipment
Schedule
This seasonal position begins with preseason planning and costume preparation during the summer and early fall, followed by evening and weekend operations throughout the Halloween season.
Compensation
Seasonal stipend: $3,000–$4,500, depending on experience, qualifications, and successful completion of the season.
Why Join Scaregrounds PDX?
- Help define the visual identity of one of the Pacific Northwest's premier Halloween attractions
- Design costumes for dozens of unique monsters and immersive characters
- Collaborate with talented artists, builders, makeup professionals, and performers
- See your creations come to life in front of thousands of guests
- Be part of a passionate team dedicated to creating unforgettable Halloween experiences
Ready to dress Portland's nightmares?
Apply today and help transform ordinary performers into unforgettable monsters at Scaregrounds PDX!
Scaregrounds PDX-Oaks Amusement Park-Portland, Oregon
Pay: $30.00 - $35.00 per hour
Benefits:
Experience:
- Sewing: 1 year (Preferred)
Location:
- Portland, OR 97202 (Preferred)
Shift availability:
Ability to Commute:
- Portland, OR 97202 (Preferred)
Work Location: In person
