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Assistant Set Designer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

OTJ Architects, Inc.

Designer

Washington, DC · Hybrid

$75K - $88K/yr

Designer (Hybrid, Washington, DC) We are seeking a Designer to assist in the delivery of ... set deadlines. * Communicates clearly with team members. * Actively assists team members across ...

OTJ Architects

Designer

Washington, DC · On-site

$70 - $110/hr

We are seeking a Designer to assist in the delivery of high-impact projects and ensuring design ... set deadlines. * Communicates clearly with team members. * Actively assists team members across ...

Brivo

Instructional Designer

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$67K - $78K/yr

You will assist in the assessment of training needs, and create learning content that supports ... Work independently and with outstanding communication skills to set and meet quarterly objectives ...

Booz Allen Hamilton

Graphic Designer, Mid

Washington, DC · On-site

$53K - $108K/yr

Ability to set expectations, define project timelines, and deliver quality products withminimal ... As part of this commitment, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) or other tools to assist with ...

Booz Allen Hamilton

Graphic Designer, Mid

Washington, DC · On-site

$53K - $108K/yr

Ability to set expectations, define project timelines, and deliver quality products withminimal ... As part of this commitment, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) or other tools to assist with ...

Brivo

Instructional Designer

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$80K - $96K/yr

You will assist in the assessment of training needs, and create learning content that supports ... Work independently and with outstanding communication skills to set and meet quarterly objectives ...

Meso Scale Discovery

Industrial Designer

Rockville, MD

$88K - $134K/yr

... Assist the Creative Team with promotional content, product visuals, trade show displays, and ... set appropriate expectations of design within branding guidelines. • Possess a creative and ...

Brivo, Inc.

Instructional Designer

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$80 - $96/hr

You will assist in the assessment of training needs, and create learning content that supports ... Work independently and with outstanding communication skills to set and meet quarterly objectives ...

HOK

Interior Designer

Washington, DC · On-site

Ensures project documentation and contracts are in compliance with the standards set forth by the ... May assist in design presentations. * May assist more senior staff with keeping a phase of a ...

HOK

Interior Designer

Washington, DC · On-site

$90 - $100/hr

Ensures project documentation and contracts are in compliance with the standards set forth by the ... May assist in design presentations. * May assist more senior staff with keeping a phase of a ...

MSD

Industrial Designer

Rockville, MD · On-site

$88K - $134K/yr

... Assist the Creative Team with promotional content, product visuals, trade show displays, and ... set appropriate expectations of design within branding guidelines. • Possess a creative and ...

Brivo

Instructional Designer

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$80K - $96K/yr

You will assist in the assessment of training needs, and create learning content that supports ... Work independently and with outstanding communication skills to set and meet quarterly objectives ...

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Assistant Set Designer information

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$12

$27

$44

How much do assistant set designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant set designer in Washington is $27.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.78 and $32.40 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 Washington?

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

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

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

Assistant Set Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Set Designer job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 73% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 26% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,015 per year, or $27.9 per hour.

Designer

OTJ Architects, Inc.

Washington, DC • Hybrid

$75K - $88K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Designer
(Hybrid, Washington, DC)
Job Description:
We are seeking a Designer to assist in the delivery of high‑impact projects and ensuring design integrity across systems and solutions.
Responsibilities:
  • Demonstrates superior attention to detail, creativity, organizational skills, and effectively manages time to execute upon assigned tasks within set deadlines.
  • Communicates clearly with team members.
  • Actively assists team members across multiple projects and design phases (3+ projects at any given time).
  • Demonstrates technical intelligence in practicing area of architecture and/or interior design.
  • Demonstrates clear understanding of all project phases and sequencing.
  • Create and participate in client presentations.
  • Contributes to development of project schedules.
  • Demonstrates proficiency in assembly of Construction Documents.
  • Assists in development of site surveys and related documentation.
  • Assists Senior Designers with selection of finishes and fixtures.
  • Develops test fits and space plans under supervision.
  • Effectively researches/problem solves to coordinate development of code compliant designs.
  • Participate in Construction Administration tasks and meetings.
  • May oversee all design and drawings (smaller projects only).
Qualifications:
  • 4-6 years of experience
  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree of architecture or interior design
  • Intermediate level Revit proficiency
  • Intermediate level rendering software proficiency (Enscape, Lumion, or other)
  • Intermediate level Adobe Creative Suite proficiency
  • Intermediate proficiency in Office 365 products (Outlook, Word, Excel, Teams, etc.)
  • Knowledge of furnishings and finishes a plus
  • Working knowledge of building codes
  • Strong graphic skills to communicate design concepts
About OTJ:
OTJ is a premier architecture and design firm with offices in Washington, D.C., New York City, Miami, San Francisco, Boston, Dallas, and Chicago. For 35+ years we have experienced an unparalleled and uninterrupted growth trajectory fueled by the design of award-winning projects for leading organizations across North America. We pride ourselves on our diverse and inclusive team as we continue our dynamic growth. We are now poised to further expand our reach and believe your skills and experience will be an asset to the ongoing success of our team. We are confident that OTJ will offer you the opportunity to do your best, most creative work in a dynamic atmosphere that welcomes fresh ideas.
Application:
Qualified candidates should send resume and relevant work samples to HR@otj.com. Email must include number of years with workplace experience, level of Revit skill, if local to the DMV area / can commute to our DC office, and if a U.S. citizen. Because this position may support federal government projects that require U.S. citizenship as a bona fide occupational qualification, we are unable to move forward with candidates who do not meet this requirement.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
OTJ is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, pregnancy, genetic information, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under federal, state, or local law.

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