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Film Set Designer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Skydance

Associate Costume Designer

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$67 - $75/hr

... film leadership. This role ensures the creative vision is carried through consistently, while ... mind quality set by department leads * Creative problem solving * Implement feedback promptly ...

Skydance

Associate Costume Designer

Santa Monica, CA

$67 - $75/hr

... film leadership. This role ensures the creative vision is carried through consistently, while ... mind quality set by department leads * Creative problem solving * Implement feedback promptly ...

Superpower

Motion Designer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$120K - $170K/yr

Comfort working across brand and product contexts -- you can shift from a 60s hero film to a 3s ... We aim to set the gold standard for team health culture on the planet -- live the ethos! Investors

Superpower Health, Inc

Motion Designer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$120K - $170K/yr

Comfort working across brand and product contexts - you can shift from a 60s hero film to a 3s ... We aim to set the gold standard for team health culture on the planet - live the ethos! Investors

Object Construction, Inc.

Technical Drafter

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$23.75 - $30.50/hr

Previous experience working on scenic designs, stagecraft, or set construction for live performances, film, or television. REQUIRED EDUCATION / EXPERIENCE : * 5+ years of professional experience as a ...

Object Construction, Inc.

Technical Drafter

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$63K - $80K/yr

Previous experience working on scenic designs, stagecraft, or set construction for live performances, film, or television. REQUIRED EDUCATION / EXPERIENCE : * 5+ years of professional experience as a ...

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Film Set Designer information

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How much do film set designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for film set designer in California is $23.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.77 and $25.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a film set designer?

A Film Set Designer is responsible for creating the visual look of a film's sets, ensuring they align with the director’s vision and story. They collaborate with production designers, art directors, and other crew members to develop sketches, blueprints, and models of set designs. Their job involves selecting materials, overseeing construction, and ensuring the sets are functional and visually appealing. Attention to detail, creativity, and knowledge of design principles are essential for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a film set designer?

To thrive as a Film Set Designer, you need strong skills in set design, spatial visualization, and a background in art, architecture, or theater production. Proficiency with design software such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite, along with knowledge of set construction techniques, is often expected. Creativity, attention to detail, strong collaboration, and organizational skills make candidates stand out in this role. These abilities are crucial for translating creative vision into practical, visually compelling sets that enhance storytelling and production value.

What are some typical challenges faced by film set designers on set?

Film Set Designers often encounter tight deadlines, budget constraints, and frequent last-minute changes to set requirements. Coordinating with directors, art department teams, and other crew members while ensuring the designs align with the creative vision can be demanding. Managing logistical factors such as materials sourcing, space limitations, and quick set turnovers also present frequent challenges. However, these aspects make the role dynamic and offer rich opportunities to develop creative problem-solving and project management skills.

How do you become a film set designer?

To become a film set designer, individuals typically pursue a degree in theater design, fine arts, or a related field, and gain experience through internships or entry-level positions in production design or art departments. Developing skills in drawing, model-making, and familiarity with design software like CAD are essential, along with building a strong portfolio and networking within the industry.

How much do film set designers get paid?

Film set designers typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, with experienced professionals or those working on large productions earning higher salaries. Compensation varies based on experience, location, project scope, and union membership, and the role often requires skills in design, drafting, and familiarity with industry tools like CAD software.

What do film set designers do in film?

Film set designers are responsible for creating the visual environment of a film by designing and building sets that reflect the story's time period, location, and mood. They collaborate with directors and other production staff, select materials, and oversee construction to ensure the sets meet artistic and safety standards. Proficiency in design software and knowledge of construction techniques are essential for the role.

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

The most popular types of Film Set Designer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Film Set Designer jobs in California?

For Film Set Designer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Film Set Designer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Film Set Designer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Film Set Designer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Film Set Designer job openings:

Film Set Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Film Set Designer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 61% Full Time, 35% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $49,214 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Adjunct Professor Theatre -Costume Design

University of La Verne

La Verne, CA • On-site

$29.28/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

University Of La Verne rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

67th of 618 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Posting Details
Posting Summary
Position Title
Adjunct Professor Theatre -Costume Design
Division
Provost
Major Department
College of Arts and Sciences
Department
Theatre Arts Department
Location
La Verne Main Campus
University Overview
Embark on an exciting journey with the University of La Verne, where your career aspirations come to life in a vibrant and welcoming environment. Established in 1891, our diverse and inclusive community is more than just a university-it's a home for passionate individuals like you.
At the University of La Verne, we embody four core values that set us apart-Ethical Reasoning, Diversity and Inclusivity, Lifelong Learning, and Civic and Community Engagement. If you're fueled by these principles and are eager to make a meaningful impact, your journey begins here.
With a rich history spanning 132 years, the University of La Verne boasts a global Leo Family of 89,000+ accomplished alumni. As the #1 private university in California for social mobility according to U.S. News and World Report 2024, and recently recognized as the 33rd Best U.S. College by the Wall Street Journal 2024, we take pride in our commitment to excellence in education.
Join us in shaping the future, where your passion meets purpose. Come be part of something extraordinary and apply today!
Diversity Statement
The University supports a diverse and inclusive environment where students recognize and benefit from the life experiences and viewpoints of other students, faculty, and staff. Diversity is an active and intentional practice that supports difference and multiplicity to expand knowledge, educate capable citizens, develop the whole person, and serve our local and global communities. Promoting and sustaining diversity is a commitment to educational quality and the creation of positive, respectful learning communities.
Job Description
Adjunct Professor of Theatre Arts to teach:
Teaching THAR 234 Costume Design and Construction (4 credits)
This course follows the theory and practice of costume designer and costumer's craft from initial concept to construction to the theatre stage or film set.
Under supporting documents, please provide letter of Intent.
Required Qualifications
Terminal Degrees or Relevant Professional Experience.
Preferred Qualifications
2 years experience teaching: Costume Design and Construction
Benefits Summary
Below is a list of benefits and perks offered to Adjunct Faculty:
  • Benefit Hub (discount perks)
  • Free Parking
  • Adjunct Faculty Development Funds
  • Staff discounted lunches at the Spot
  • 10% off discount at the University of La Verne Bookstore and Graphics
  • Tuition Remission (Senior Adjuncts)
  • Contribution Retirement Plan (must meet hours) for Mandatory - Voluntary Contribution at anytime
  • Medical (must meet hours)
  • Utilize services offered at CTL and the wellness center.

Employment is contingent upon successful completion and clearance of a background check and employment verification.
Physical Demands Summary
Hiring Pay Rate
Hiring Salary Per Hiring Rank:
Adjunct Instructor (no terminal degree): $29.28
Adjunct Professor (with terminal degree): $30.40
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
AF105P
Job Open Date
05/12/2026
Job Close Date
07/31/2026
Open Until Filled
Yes
Special Instructions to Applicants
Please be prepared to submit diversity statement during interview.
Advertising Summary
Higher Ed Resource Consortium: HERC.

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