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Freelance Theatre Set Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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A set designer is in charge of designing and creating the sets that appear in films and television programmes as well as in the theatre. The role involves working with and communicating with ...

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Freelance Theatre Set Designer information

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$132

How much do freelance theatre set designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance theatre set designer in the United States is $47.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $61.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a freelance theatre set designer do?

A freelance theatre set designer is responsible for creating the visual environment and physical settings for stage productions. They collaborate with directors, producers, and other designers to conceptualize and build sets that support the story and mood of a play or performance. Their work includes researching, sketching, producing scale models, selecting materials, and overseeing the actual construction of sets. Freelance set designers work on a project-by-project basis, often balancing multiple productions at once. Strong creativity, communication, and project management skills are essential for success in this field.

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

To thrive as a Freelance Theatre Set Designer, you need strong artistic vision, spatial awareness, and knowledge of set construction techniques, often supported by a degree in theatre design or related experience. Proficiency in design software like AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite, as well as familiarity with model-making and stagecraft tools, is typically required. Outstanding communication, creativity, and time management skills help you collaborate with directors, production teams, and adapt to changing project needs. These skills ensure the creation of innovative, functional sets that support storytelling and meet production deadlines.

How do freelance theatre set designers typically collaborate with directors and production teams during a show’s development?

Freelance theatre set designers work closely with directors, stage managers, and other creative team members to bring a production’s vision to life. Communication is key, as designers attend production meetings to discuss concepts, present sketches or models, and revise designs based on feedback. They also coordinate with technical staff, such as carpenters and lighting designers, to ensure the set is practical, safe, and integrates smoothly with other production elements. Flexibility and proactive collaboration help address creative and logistical challenges as the show evolves.

What is the difference between Freelance Theatre Set Designer vs Scenic Artist?

AspectFreelance Theatre Set DesignerScenic Artist
CredentialsDesign background, portfolio, possibly a degree in theatre or designArtistic skills, painting techniques, portfolio, sometimes formal art education
Work EnvironmentCollaborates with directors, producers, and technical teams on set designPaints and finishes scenery, works in studios or on-site
Industry UsageCreates overall set concepts and designs for productionsExecutes the visual details of scenery through painting and finishing

While both roles involve visual creativity in theatre, a Freelance Theatre Set Designer develops the overall concept and design of the scenery, whereas a Scenic Artist focuses on painting and finishing the scenery based on those designs. The designer creates the vision, and the scenic artist brings it to life through craftsmanship.

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Freelance Theatre Set Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Theatre Set Designer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,230 per year, or $47.7 per hour.

GRHS Theater Set Design Builder

Sweetwater County School District 2

Green River, WY • On-site

Contractor

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Position Type:
Extra Duty
Date Posted:
8/3/2026
Location:
Green River High School
Job Title: Theater Set Design Builder
Location: Green River High School, Sweetwater County School District #2
Position Type: Seasonal/Contract
Position Overview
Green River High School Theatre is seeking a skilled and creative Theater Set Design Builder to assist with the construction and installation of scenery for the musical production. The Set Design Builder will work closely with the Director and production team to bring the artistic vision of the production to life by constructing safe, functional, and visually appealing sets. This position offers an exciting opportunity to collaborate with students and staff while creating an engaging theatrical experience.
Key Responsibilities
  • Construct, assemble, and install theatrical scenery according to approved set designs.
  • Collaborate with the Director and production team to ensure the set supports the artistic vision of the production.
  • Interpret design plans, sketches, and construction drawings to build scenery accurately.
  • Operate hand and power tools safely while maintaining a clean and organized workspace.
  • Ensure all scenery is structurally sound and meets appropriate safety standards.
  • Assist with painting, finishing, and detailing scenic elements as needed.
  • Coordinate the transportation, installation, and strike (tear-down) of scenery.
  • Work within established timelines to meet rehearsal and performance deadlines.
  • Supervise and mentor student volunteers assisting with set construction when appropriate.
  • Communicate effectively with the Director and production team regarding project progress and material needs.

Qualifications
  • Experience in carpentry, woodworking, construction, scenic design, or theatrical set construction.
  • Ability to safely use common hand and power tools.
  • Strong problem-solving, organizational, and time-management skills.
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a production team.
  • Dependable, professional, and able to meet production deadlines.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Previous experience building scenery for theatrical productions.
  • Experience working with middle school or high school students.
  • Knowledge of stage construction techniques and theatrical safety practices.
  • Background in construction, technical theatre, or scenic design.

Compensation
Compensation is provided in the form of a stipend, commensurate with experience and district guidelines.

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