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Assistant Set Designer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Ford Motor Company

Class A - Surface Designer

Dearborn, MI · On-site

$96K - $162K/yr

... set including supplier data Develops and maintains a coordinated Class A surface database (i.e ... assist (mentor) Class A Surface Designers in the delivery of feasible math surfaces aligned with ...

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How much do assistant set designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant set designer in Michigan is $21.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.78 and $24.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an assistant set designer?

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 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 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 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 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.

More about Assistant Set Designer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Set Designer jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Set Designer jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Assistant Set Designer jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Assistant Set Designer job openings:

Assistant Set Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Set Designer job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 77% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,645 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

Architectural Designer

Dearborn, MI • On-site

Ghafari Associates LLC
Architectural Services • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about Ghafari Associates LLCexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Job Description:
General Summary:
The Architectural Designer's primary role will be to develop project concepts into visually appealing and functional architectural designs. Working closely with the project team, the Architectural Designer contributes to the development of innovative and sustainable design solutions. This position requires a blend of creativity, technical proficiency, and a keen understanding of architectural design principles. The Architectural Designer shall also utilize the use of new design technologies including but not limited to: generative design, AI design, Augmented/Virtual Reality, and other emerging design tools.
Essential Job Functions:
  • Collaborate with project stakeholders to understand design requirements and objectives.
  • Participate and/or lead project programming to set project goals and scope of work.
  • Generate creative and innovative design concepts that align with project goals.
  • Produce sketches, mood boards, and other visual representations to communicate design ideas.
  • Utilize advanced 3D modeling software and/or technologies to create detailed and realistic representations of architectural designs.
  • Develop renderings and visualizations to effectively communicate design intent to clients and project stakeholders.
  • Participate in client presentations and meetings to articulate design concepts and respond to feedback.
  • Iterate design concepts based on feedback and project requirements.
  • Research and prepare submissions for Site Plan Approvals, including coordination with team members as lead or team member to others lead.
  • Collaborate with architects, engineers, and other professionals to integrate various design elements seamlessly into projects.
  • Collaborate with the project team to produce construction documents and assist in the permitting process as needed.
  • Assist in the preparation of detailed architectural drawings during the Design Development and Construction Document phases of projects, which may vary by project.
  • Assist in providing information on products, materials, and/or details to aid in the preparation of project specifications.
  • Ensure that designs comply with relevant building codes, regulations, and industry standards.
  • Stay informed about the latest trends, materials, and construction techniques in the field of design and architecture.
  • Research and recommend appropriate materials and finishes for projects.
  • Work closely with suppliers and manufacturers to source materials and product samples during the design phase for client approval.
  • Foster effective communication within the project team and with clients.
  • Assist project managers with budgeting design time, tracking delivery dates, and assisting in budget validations as required.
  • Contribute to the resolution of design-related issues during pre-construction/construction.
  • Assist in the construction administration of projects concerning design-related items.
  • Perform other design-related duties as assigned.

Qualifications
Education/Certifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Architecture required
  • Licensed as an Architect, not required but preferred
  • LEED Certification, not required but preferred
  • WELL Certification, not required but preferred

Experience:
  • 5+ years of experience in an Architectural Designer role
  • Experience in master planning, site planning, program development, conceptual design and 3D design visualization required

Skills/Competencies:
  • Proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, SketchUP, Enscape, Rhino, Dynamo, Photoshop, InDesign, PowerPoint, Bluebeam Review and MS Office products
  • Knowledge of AI Design/Visualization programs
  • Familiar with BIM360/Autodesk ACC
  • Knowledge of current building codes and zoning codes and how to apply them to projects
  • Knowledge of industry vendors (materials, finishes, furnishings and equipment)
  • Strong visual, verbal and written communication skills
  • Strong attention to design details

About Us
At Ghafari Associates, we don't just design buildings-we help shape the future of the industries we serve. As a global leader in architecture, engineering, and consulting, we partner with clients to deliver forward-thinking solutions that transform how people work, manufacture, and connect.
Our strength lies in our people. We bring together curious minds, technical experts, and creative problem-solvers who thrive on collaboration and innovation. Whether supporting major industrial programs or advancing federal and commercial projects, our teams are empowered to make a meaningful impact-both for our clients and within our communities.
We are committed to investing in our employees' financial, physical, and emotional well-being, as well as their professional growth. Through robust training, licensure support, internships, mentorships, and tuition reimbursement, we provide the resources our people need to build rewarding careers while making a lasting difference in the communities we are proud to call home.
Ghafari Associates is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local laws. As a federal contractor, Ghafari Associates maintains affirmative action programs for individuals with disabilities and protected veterans in accordance with applicable laws.
Pay Transparency
Ghafari Associates will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information.
Accommodation
Ghafari Associates is also committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities in the employment application process. If you need an accommodation due to a disability to use our online system to apply for a position, you may also apply for positions in the following ways:
  • By fax at: 313.436.8624, Attn: Human Resources
  • By mail at: 17101 Michigan Ave., Dearborn, MI 48126, Attn: Human Resources
  • In person at: 17101 Michigan Ave., Dearborn, MI 48126
  • By email at: hr@ghafari.com

If there are any questions about the accommodations offered above, please contact 313.441.3000 for assistance.

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