1

Assistant Set Designer Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Setup Technician - 1st Shift

Darlington, WI · On-site

$19.50 - $24.25/hr

Set mold and start jobs according to standard procedures as instructed by supervisor or upper ... To assist with required machine and/or equipment adjustments and troubleshooting to insure safe ...

Setup Technician - 2nd Shift

Darlington, WI · On-site

$19.50 - $24.25/hr

Set mold and start jobs according to standard procedures as instructed by supervisor or upper ... To assist with required machine and/or equipment adjustments and troubleshooting to insure safe ...

Setup Technician 2nd & 3rd Shift

Cuba City, WI · On-site

$19.50 - $24.25/hr

Set mold and start jobs according to standard procedures as instructed by supervisor or upper ... To assist with required machine and/or equipment adjustments and troubleshooting to insure safe ...

Setup Technician - 1st Shift

Darlington, WI · On-site

$19.50 - $24.25/hr

Set mold and start jobs according to standard procedures as instructed by supervisor or upper ... To assist with required machine and/or equipment adjustments and troubleshooting to insure safe ...

Setup Technician - 3rd Shift

Darlington, WI · On-site

$19.50 - $24.25/hr

Set mold and start jobs according to standard procedures as instructed by supervisor or upper ... To assist with required machine and/or equipment adjustments and troubleshooting to insure safe ...

Setup Technician - 3rd Shift

Darlington, WI · On-site

$19.50 - $24.25/hr

Set mold and start jobs according to standard procedures as instructed by supervisor or upper ... To assist with required machine and/or equipment adjustments and troubleshooting to insure safe ...

... set by Fourteen Foods and International Dairy Queen to enhance the customer's visit, while ... We offer a comprehensive range of benefits designed to support your overall well-being, including ...

... set by Fourteen Foods and International Dairy Queen to enhance the customer's visit, while ... We offer a comprehensive range of benefits designed to support your overall well-being, including ...

... set by Fourteen Foods and International Dairy Queen to enhance the customer's visit, while ... We offer a comprehensive range of benefits designed to support your overall well-being, including ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Assistant Set Designer information

See Wisconsin salary details

$11

$24

$39

How much do assistant set designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant set designer in Wisconsin is $24.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.42 and $28.89 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the salary of a set designer?

The salary of a set designer varies based on experience, location, and project scope, but typically ranges from $40,000 to $80,000 annually. Entry-level designers may earn less, while experienced professionals working on major productions can earn higher salaries and additional benefits.

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.
What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Assistant Set Designer jobs? Cities in Wisconsin with the most Assistant Set Designer job openings:

Setup Technician - 3rd Shift

McDonald Plastic Molding

Darlington, WI • On-site

$19.50 - $24.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Come and work for a company that continues to grow and flourish and where our people make a difference! McDonald Plastic Molding is a subsidiary of A.Y. McDonald Industries, which is a family-owned company founded in 1856. People join our business (and stay) because of our collaborative workplace, drive for innovation, and our family-oriented culture. We are a custom injection molding company known for producing high quality products that meet the needs of our customers.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.
  • Perform an initial startup on a new production run after mold sets are complete.
  • Work on processes to improve production efficiencies and reduce high scrap rates.
  • Research problems with equipment and tooling and take corrective action.
  • Trouble shoot process issues in the factory and consult with tool designer and project engineers for solutions to the problems.
  • Recommend measures to improve production methods, equipment performance, and quality of product.
  • Document and record processes for all production runs for each customer.
  • Perform daily rounds and checks at each workstation:
    • Are all waterlines on and circulating through the molds and mold heater units
    • Is water on the barrel throats
    • Waterlines are routed to the mold properly and don't have leaky fittings
    • Water tanks are circulating and the heaters are working if used
    • Drop bars are set properly
    • Dryers are working and setup correctly
    • Review of all electrical cords, air hoses, oil temperature, etc. . .
  • Set mold and start jobs according to standard procedures as instructed by supervisor or upper management.
  • Set-up and changeover of equipment used for performing secondary and degating operations at the molding machines. (Tables, Conveyors, Water Tanks, Degaters, Fixtures, etc. . .)
  • Perform all aspects of changeover required for converting molding machines to various production of sample jobs.
  • Put things in proper places when pulling jobs out. Mold inserts, fixtures, switches, valves, etc. . .
  • Perform minor mold maintenance and repair, including cavity, core and/or base changeover, as required.
  • To perform preventive maintenance and minor equipment repairs when necessary as required.
  • Keep inventory in order of heater bands, mold clamps, bolts, hoses, knockout rods.
  • Have a good knowledge of all machines and their functions and make sure your set-up people have this knowledge
  • Maintain good communications with your Quality Control Department to insure quality products are produced on your shift and at start-up.
  • Follow established procedures for the proper storage of molds and equipment.
  • Keep set-up records in order and insure that set-up records are 100% accurate when filling them out.
  • Take care of the equipment - use proper length bolts to fasten molds so threads are not stripped, watch centering rings, bumping of machines tie bards, safety gates and drop bars with the mold. Use care with auxiliary equipment. DME units fastened so as not to fall on the floor, water heats, etc. . . Overall put a little extra thought in everyday duties that you perform.
  • Stage molds and equipment for upcoming jobs.
  • Stage break periods so machinery is not left idle. This may require and early or late break.
  • To assist with required machine and/or equipment adjustments and troubleshooting to insure safe, efficient operations as directed by shift supervisor.
  • Operator the forklift as required.
  • Report problems, needs, and equipment breakdowns to your supervisor so it can be corrected.
  • Accurately complete all record keeping forms.
  • When required, to perform any job in a lower rated classification that is necessary to support plant operations safely and efficiently.
  • Assist in secondary work as needed and as time permits:
    • Assembly, print, sort, drill or gauge parts.
    • Give breaks.
    • Operate a machine.
  • Spend adequate time before and after each shift to insure all information is properly passed onto oncoming shifts.
  • Be available to work overtime as needed.
  • If something, does not seem quite right question it and report it to your supervisor immediately.
  • Adhere to all company policies regarding conduct, safety practices, and job performance.
  • When called upon or in case of an emergency, be qualified to assume supervisors responsibilities on a temporary basis.
  • All other duties as assigned by your shift supervisor or management.

Strategic planning for the growth and success of McDonald Plastic Molding.
  • Participate in-group and individual training.
  • Develop and implement McDonald PlasticMolding's core values and mission statement.
  • Perform all duties in a safe manner while supporting and encouraging the company's safety culture.
  • Determine personal strengths and delegate workload that best fits each individual.
  • Maintain a clean, organized and safe working environment.
  • Perform all job duties with a positive, collaborative, and encouraging attitude.

Perform other duties as required or directed by management.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; and reach with hands and arms. The employee frequently is required to stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee is occasionally required to climb or balance, talk or hear, and taste or smell. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 75 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, and depth perception.
BENEFITS
Benefits include major medical (BCBS), Delta dental and vision, company sponsored basic life insurance and short-term disability. Voluntary life insurance, accidental death and dismemberment, and long-term disability available. Competitive 401(k) with company matching, generous PTO, 10 paid holidays, and company giveaways, family picnics, and more!
A pre-employment and 6 panel (no THC) Drug screen required.
McDonald Plastic Molding is an equal opportunity employer.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.