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Assistant Set Designer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

DeToledo High School

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Technical Director/Set Designer/Stagecraft Teacher

West Hills, CA · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

... to assist with the technical elements of those events. Responsibilities: * Serve as Technical ... Director and Set Designer of all school arts and dance events, assemblies, and special events.

Apply Early

Set Active

Graphic Designer

Beverly Hills, CA · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

About SET Active SET Active brings ease and confidence to everyday movement through thoughtfully ... Collaborative Projects & Presentations: * Assist in creating internal and external presentations ...

Set Active

Graphic Designer

Beverly Hills, CA · On-site

About SET Active SET Active brings ease and confidence to everyday movement through thoughtfully ... Collaborative Projects & Presentations: * Assist in creating internal and external presentations ...

Set Active

Apparel Designer

Beverly Hills, CA

The Apparel Designer supports the Product Design team in bringing SET Active's seasonal vision to ... Support development and refinement of seasonal assortments * Assist in creating color palettes ...

Set Active

Apparel Designer

Beverly Hills, CA · On-site

$100K - $125K/yr

The Apparel Designer supports the Product Design team in bringing SET Active's seasonal vision to ... Support development and refinement of seasonal assortments * Assist in creating color palettes ...

ALO

Assistant Designer

Beverly Hills, CA

$70K - $72K/yr

OVERVIEW Alo Assistant Designer is an all-star position that is very important to the team. This ... Set up vendor appointments as needed * Create and fulfill gifting packages * Create shipping labels ...

ALO

Assistant Designer

Beverly Hills, CA · On-site

$70K - $72K/yr

OVERVIEW Alo Assistant Designer is an all-star position that is very important to the team. This ... Set up vendor appointments as needed * Create and fulfill gifting packages * Create shipping labels ...

Hybrid Promtions LLC

Assistant Designer

Cypress, CA · On-site

$17/hr

Set up data and styles in PLM system; BOM for both development and production * Prepare art for ... * Assist in coding art and revisions of CADs * Assist in day-to-day projects including filing ...

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IMEG

Electrical Project Designer | Anaheim, CA

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

IMEG is hiring an Electrical Project Designer in Anaheim, CA , to lead design efforts for low- to ... Assist (SET) Tools within Revit for electrical calculations, coordination, properties, etc. • ...

Robert C Torres

Floral Designer Assistant

Riverside, CA

$17/hr

We are looking for a floral designer or trainee to floral assist and set up events. This position involves in designing, processing flowers, prepping containers, setting up events and general ...

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Everything HR

Brand Designer

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

Then set it again. With headquarters in sunny Santa Monica and a creative workplace culture, Club ... You'll also assist in finalizing those assets based on creative direction. This is an on-site ...

ABC Industries

Product Designer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Set design requirements based on briefs from internal teams and external partners * Research ... These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions ...

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All JobsAssistant Set Designer JobsAssistant Set Designer Jobs in California

Assistant Set Designer information

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$10

$24

$38

How much do assistant set designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant set designer in California is $24.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $28.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by Assistant Set Designers during the pre-production phase?

Assistant Set Designers often juggle multiple tasks during pre-production, such as translating the lead designer's vision into practical drafts, sourcing materials within budget constraints, and coordinating with construction teams. Time management can be a challenge, as deadlines are tight and changes from directors or production designers are common. Effective communication and adaptability are crucial, since the role requires collaborating with various departments while ensuring that all set elements meet both creative and safety standards.

What Does an Assistant Set Designer Do?

As an assistant set designer, your job is to help design the set for a film, television program, or theatre production. In this role, you may participate in each rehearsal, select art that fits the production, determine when to add or remove material from the stage, and otherwise help to keep things moving. The most important part of this job is selecting and acquiring set pieces on time and within the production budget. Assistant set designers usually work under one or more directors, such as the art director or production designer. You often see this job under a variety of titles, such as assistant art director or production assistant, so be sure to look at the content of each job post instead of just the title.

What is the difference between Assistant Set Designer vs Set Designer?

AspectAssistant Set DesignerSet Designer
CredentialsRelevant education in theater, design, or architecture; often entry-levelAdvanced experience, portfolio, and sometimes certifications in design
Work EnvironmentAssist in creating and building set designs under supervisionLead the design process, make creative decisions, and oversee construction
Industry UsageCommonly employed in theater, film, and TV production teamsPrimarily responsible for the overall set design in productions

The Assistant Set Designer supports the Set Designer by handling preparatory tasks and assisting with design elements. While the Assistant Set Designer focuses on supporting roles, the Set Designer takes the lead in creating and executing the overall set concept. Both roles are essential in production, with the assistant gaining experience to eventually become a full Set Designer.

What does an assistant designer do?

An assistant set designer supports the lead designer in creating and organizing the visual environment for theater, film, or television productions. They help with tasks such as researching design concepts, preparing sketches, sourcing materials, and managing set construction and setup. Strong organizational skills and knowledge of design tools like CAD are often required for this role.

What are Assistant Set Designers?

Assistant Set Designers are creative professionals who support the lead set designer in developing and executing the visual appearance of a stage, film, or television production. Their responsibilities typically include creating sketches, building models, sourcing materials, and coordinating with other departments to ensure the set aligns with the director's vision. They often assist with budgeting, scheduling, and logistical tasks to help bring the set from concept to reality. This role requires strong artistic skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work well within a team in a fast-paced environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Assistant Set Designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Set Designer, you need a strong background in design principles, familiarity with stagecraft, and usually a degree in theater, fine arts, or a related field. Proficiency with design software such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite is commonly required, along with knowledge of model building and drafting techniques. Excellent organization, teamwork, and communication skills help coordinate with designers, directors, and production crews. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure the seamless creation and execution of set designs that support the overall vision of a production.

What does an assistant set designer do?

An assistant set designer supports the lead set designer in creating and building the physical environment for a production, such as theater, film, or television. They help with tasks like researching design concepts, preparing drawings, sourcing materials, and constructing or painting set pieces, often using tools like CAD software. The role requires strong organizational skills and knowledge of set construction processes to ensure the design is executed accurately and efficiently.

What is a design assistant's salary?

A design assistant's salary typically ranges from $30,000 to $60,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced assistants working in larger productions or prestigious firms can earn higher wages. Skills in design software and a strong portfolio can also influence compensation.

How much does a set designer get paid?

Set designers typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced designers working on large productions can earn higher salaries. Many set designers also work freelance or contract-based, which can affect income levels.
More about Assistant Set Designer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Set Designer jobs in California? The most popular types of Set Designer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Assistant Set Designer jobs? Cities in California with the most Assistant Set Designer job openings:
Assistant Set Designer jobs near you
Technical Director/Set Designer/Stagecraft Teacher

Technical Director/Set Designer/Stagecraft Teacher

DeToledo High School

West Hills, CA • On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

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Job description

Technical Director/Set Designer/Stagecraft Teacher 


Reports to:                 DEPARTMENT CHAIR 

Manager:                    PRINCIPAL 

Departments:             Visual and Performing Arts Department 


Broad Function:

de Toledo High School, a vibrant and innovative independent high school, is seeking an experienced and dynamic Technical Director/Set Designer/Stagecraft Teacher for a position beginning in August 2026. The candidate must demonstrate excellent technical and design skills and a passion for directing the technical elements of school events and teaching stagecraft. A strong candidate will have a passion for helping bring program directors’ visions to life in shows and other events. The candidate will also have a love for inspiring students to step outside their comfort zones to assist with the technical elements of those events.


Responsibilities:

  • Serve as Technical Director and Set Designer of all school arts and dance events, assemblies, and special events.
  • Teach one class of Stagecraft PE. 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

·         Enthusiasm for the mission and vision of de Toledo High School and a strong commitment to embrace and promote its culture. 

·         Experience as Technical Director/Set Designer/Stagecraft Teacher. 

·         Candidates should have knowledge of the skills needed to design and construct sets, operate and oversee lighting and sound setups/production, create and maintain production schedules, complete tasks on deadline, and consult and collaborate with program directors. Must have experience creating and maintaining budgets pertaining to event productions as well as overseeing professionals contracted (either by the program directors or by the Technical Director) to do support work for events. 

·         For the Stagecraft PE portion of the position, candidates must be able to teach foundational skills for the previously mentioned elements and oversee students during technical run-throughs and productions. In addition, candidates must be able to instruct students in developing ideas and solving problems. 

·         B.A. or higher equivalent degree in Technical Theatre, Theatrical Production, or related field.

·         Must be flexible, highly professional, eager to evolve as an event professional and educator, and enjoy working in a highly collaborative environment.

·         Demonstrate ability to teach with a variety of modalities to reach different learning styles.

·         Ability to communicate with high school students.

·         Strong interpersonal and communication skills with people at all levels and in all settings.

·         Self-motivating, self-confident. 

·         Willing communicator and collaborator; enthusiastic team player.

·         Unquestionable personal integrity, excellent judgment, sound instincts, diplomacy, and patience.

Salary Range: $85,000-$100,000 DOE with Outstanding Benefits

Must be authorized to work in the United States.


Qualified candidates regardless of faith are encouraged to email a cover letter and resume.

Company Description

About de Toledo High School
Founded in 2002, de Toledo High School (formerly New Community Jewish High School) is an independent Jewish community high school located in West Hills, CA. It is a vibrant and academically rigorous school community where intellectual imagination and ethical action are inseparable. We seek to shape students into persons of character who will be respectful, knowledgeable, and collaborative leaders who conduct themselves in accordance with ethical standards. At dTHS, every student may strive to be both an A+ student and an A+ human being. Our mission is to raise a new generation of Jewish leaders for whom Jewish values and tradition shape and guide their vision and for whom knowledge creates possibilities for moral action, good character and shalom. For more information, please visit www.dths.org.