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Contract Scenic Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Exhibit Designer

Corrales, NM · On-site

$55K - $75K/yr

The role is focused on the design, integration, and coordination of exhibits and other scenic ... for contracts or to create fabrication or installation drawings * Interface with Ideum clients ...

Exhibit Designer

Corrales, NM · On-site

$55K - $75K/yr

The role is focused on the design, integration, and coordination of exhibits and other scenic ... for contracts or to create fabrication or installation drawings * Interface with Ideum clients ...

The role is focused on the design, integration, and coordination of exhibits and other scenic ... for contracts or to create fabrication or installation drawings * Interface with Ideum clients ...

$84K - $112K/yr

The role of Contract Manager requires the individual to be well skilled in both administrative and ... Our Cranberry HQ was designed with our Team Members in mind, featuring shared work areas and ...

Manager, Legal Contracts

Cranberry, PA · On-site

$88K - $117K/yr

The role of Contract Manager requires the individual to be well skilled in both administrative and ... Our Cranberry HQ was designed with our Team Members in mind, featuring shared work areas and ...

Physical Therapist - Travel Contract

Glen, NH · On-site

$1.7K - $2.2K/wk

Benefits Designed for Travelers We deeply value your commitment to impacting others, that's why we ... scenic drives and trail access. North Conway Village is about 10 minutes from Glen and provides ...

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Contract Scenic Designer information

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$49.5K

$58.5K

$68.5K

How much do contract scenic designer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract scenic designer in the United States is $58,549.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,000.00 and $61,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contract scenic designer?

Contract scenic designers are professionals who are hired on a project-by-project basis to create and oversee the visual environments for theatrical productions, television shows, films, or events. Their responsibilities typically include designing sets, selecting materials, collaborating with directors and other designers, and ensuring the set aligns with the overall artistic vision. Unlike full-time staff, contract scenic designers work as freelancers or independent contractors, often juggling multiple projects with different clients. Their expertise is crucial for bringing stories to life through engaging and functional stage or screen settings.

How does a contract scenic designer typically collaborate with directors and other production team members during a show’s development?

As a contract scenic designer, you’ll work closely with directors to understand their vision and translate it into tangible set designs. Collaboration often involves attending production meetings, sharing drafts and models, and integrating feedback from lighting, costume, and technical directors to ensure all elements work harmoniously. Effective communication and flexibility are key, as adjustments to designs may be required throughout the rehearsal process. Your role is central in bringing the visual environment of a production to life while balancing creative goals with budgetary and logistical constraints.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract scenic designer?

To thrive as a Contract Scenic Designer, you need strong artistic ability, spatial awareness, and a background in theater design or a related field, often demonstrated through a portfolio and relevant degree. Mastery of design software such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite, along with knowledge of stage construction techniques, is essential. Creativity, collaboration, and effective communication distinguish standout designers in this role. These skills ensure visually compelling, practical, and safe scenic environments that meet both artistic visions and production requirements.
What cities are hiring for Contract Scenic Designer jobs? Cities with the most Contract Scenic Designer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Scenic Designer jobs? The most popular types of Scenic Designer jobs are:
What states have the most Contract Scenic Designer jobs? States with the most job openings for Contract Scenic Designer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Contract Scenic Designer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Scenic Designer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Contract Scenic Designer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Locum Tenens, 79% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 5% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,549 per year, or $28.1 per hour.

SHOP / LEAD CARPENTER Scenic, Tradeshow & Experiential Fabrication

Cadence Inc

Wheeling, IL • On-site

$40 - $50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Cadence is seeking a working Shop / Lead Carpenter to support high-profile scenic, tradeshow, and experiential builds for national brands.


This is a hands-on leadership role. You’ll be on tools most days while also coordinating people, materials, and workflow so projects move efficiently from drawings to shipment.


What you’ll do

  • Build custom scenic, exhibit, and architectural elements
  • Lead shop builds when projects scale
  • Assign and sequence work on larger builds
  • Coordinate material ordering and shop supplies
  • Own pack-out and shipping accuracy (parts, hardware, tools)
  • Maintain and improve shop organization, cleanliness, and safety
  • Collaborate with design and PM on build approach and timing

Expect roughly 80% building / 20% leadership and organization, with room to grow the role based on strengths.


The shop

  • CNC routing
  • Dedicated bench and assembly space
  • Moderate metalworking capability
  • Extensive stock of hardware, fasteners, laminates, and adhesives
  • High-quality tools and equipment to support clean, efficient builds

The shop is actively evolving, and this role has real influence in improving layout, workflow, and organization.


Required experience

  • Strong bench carpentry background (cabinets, fixtures, millwork)
  • Proven lamination and cabinet assembly experience
  • Ability to read and execute shop drawings accurately
  • Comfortable making decisions and owning outcomes
  • Experience working under tight, non-negotiable deadlines

Strong pluses: light welding/metalwork, scenic or spray finishing, acrylics, CNC operation (not programming)


Compensation & Benefits

  • $40–$50/hr, based on experience
  • Overtime paid when applicable
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • Full-time position; contract considered for the right experience

This is a non-bargaining unit position.


Why you’ll like working here

This is a place for builders who like responsibility. The shop has strong capabilities and has received numerous awards for large and difficult projects.  For someone seeking growth, there’s still room to improve things, and the right people are trusted to help shape how work gets done. There’s very little bureaucracy — structure comes from professionals owning their role. People who bring ideas, take initiative, and care about outcomes tend to do well here.


About Cadence

Cadence designs and builds custom scenic, tradeshow, and experiential environments for national and global brands across automotive, CPG, beer, wine & spirits, and professional and collegiate sports. Our work comes to life in live environments where accuracy, finish, and deadlines matter.