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Assistant Set Designer Jobs in Philadelphia, PA (NOW HIRING)

Barton Associates Inc

Plumbing Designer

Philadelphia, PA

$72K - $94K/yr

... set of working drawings * May assist lead Engineer in design of more complex system elements ... May delegate drafting tasks of designs he/she has originated to discipline BIM technicians and ...

Barton Associates Inc

Plumbing Designer

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

$72K - $94K/yr

... set of working drawings * May assist lead Engineer in design of more complex system elements ... May delegate drafting tasks of designs he/she has originated to discipline BIM technicians and ...

Barton Associates Inc.

Plumbing Designer

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

$72K - $94K/yr

... set of working drawings * May assist lead Engineer in design of more complex system elements ... May delegate drafting tasks of designs he/she has originated to discipline BIM technicians and ...

MGE LDC

Lighting Designer

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

... Assistant Lighting Manager to provide valuable design and project management support to the team ... Demonstrated excellence in ability to understand and consistently execute drawing set-ups, project ...

MG Engineering

Lighting Designer

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

... Assistant Lighting Manager to provide valuable design and project management support to the team ... Demonstrated excellence in ability to understand and consistently execute drawing set-ups, project ...

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All JobsSet Designer JobsAssistant Set Designer JobsAssistant Set Designer Jobs in Philadelphia, PA

Assistant Set Designer information

See Philadelphia, PA salary details

$10

$22

$35

How much do assistant set designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant set designer in Philadelphia, PA is $22.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.64 and $26.25 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 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 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.
More about Assistant Set Designer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Set Designer jobs in Philadelphia, PA? The most popular types of Set Designer jobs in Philadelphia, PA are:
What cities near Philadelphia, PA are hiring for Assistant Set Designer jobs? Cities near Philadelphia, PA with the most Assistant Set Designer job openings:
Assistant Set Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Set Designer job openings in Philadelphia, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 25% Full Time, and 75% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,032 per year, or $22.6 per hour.

Props Master, Musical

Gloucester County Institute of Technology

Sewell, NJ • On-site

$1.0K/wk

Other

Re-posted 12 hours ago

Job description

Job Title

GCIT Production Assistant

Job Description

Qualifications: Certificated Staff

Description:

- Procure working props from initial master props list provided by director within 2 weeks of first rehearsal

- Procure show props from master list adjusting to Stage Manager notes for changes, deletions and additions by first tech rehearsal

- Confer with set designer to determine what furniture and set dressing is required for production and provide those by first tech rehearsal

- Add set dressing with the approval of set designer

- Confer all furniture choices with set designer

- Purchase, rent or borrow props and set dressing within reasonable terms and within budget, if budget limitations are provided

- Correctly and efficiently deliver original receipts for reimbursement, adhering to the guidelines set forth by the GCIT Business Office

Reports To: Katie Knoblock

Hours: As needed

Location: GCIT

Salary: $1000.00

Benefits: No

Deadline for Accepting Resumes: 07/24/26

Effective Date: 8/1/2026

Supplemental Information: The Gloucester County Vocational School District prohibits discrimination based on the following protected categories: race, creed, color, national origin, nationality, ancestry, age, sex/gender (including pregnancy), marital status, civil status, domestic partnership status, familial status, religion, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, atypical hereditary cellular or blood trait, genetic information, liability for service in the Armed Forces of the United States, or disability.

Contact Information: The following person has been designated to handle inquiries/complaints regarding non-discrimination policies: Title IX/Section 504 Ms. Allie Jones, Director of Human Resources 1360 Tanyard Rd. Sewell, NJ 08080 856-468-1445

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