ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Installation Artist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Signtech

Sign Designer/Production Artist

San Diego, CA · On-site

$26 - $29/hr

Sign Designer / Production Artist Join a successful, fast-growing sign company where your ... Opportunity to see your designs move from concept to completed installation. * A workplace where ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsInstallation Artist JobsInstallation Artist Jobs in California

Installation Artist information

See California salary details

$10

$29

$49

How much do installation artist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for installation artist in California is $29.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.35 and $36.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an installation artist?

Installation artists are creative professionals who design and construct immersive, site-specific artworks that transform spaces and engage viewers in unique ways. Their work often incorporates a variety of materials and sensory elements, such as light, sound, and interactive components, to create an environment or experience rather than a traditional, standalone object. Installation artists may work in galleries, public spaces, or outdoor locations, and their projects can be temporary or permanent. They often collaborate with curators, architects, and communities to realize their visions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an installation artist?

To thrive as an Installation Artist, you need a background in fine arts or a related field, strong conceptual thinking, and technical ability to design and construct immersive artworks. Familiarity with materials like wood, metal, fabric, and digital tools such as 3D modeling software or projection mapping systems is often essential. Creativity, adaptability, and strong communication skills help artists collaborate with curators, fabricators, and audiences. These skills and qualities are crucial for effectively bringing complex artistic visions to life and engaging viewers in meaningful experiences.

How do installation artists typically collaborate with curators and venue staff during the setup process?

Installation artists often work closely with curators and venue staff to ensure their artwork is properly displayed and safely installed. This collaboration involves discussing technical requirements, spatial considerations, and any necessary modifications to the original concept to fit the exhibition space. Artists may also coordinate the logistics for transporting materials, oversee the assembly, and troubleshoot any unforeseen challenges. Open communication and flexibility are key, as last-minute adjustments are common in adapting site-specific works to different environments.

What is the difference between Installation Artist vs Set Designer?

AspectInstallation ArtistSet Designer
CredentialsArt or design degree, portfolioDesign or theater degree, portfolio
Work EnvironmentGalleries, public spaces, art festivalsTheaters, film sets, TV studios
Industry UsageArt exhibitions, public art projectsFilm, television, theater productions
Common Search/ComparisonInstallation Artist vs Set Designer

While both Installation Artists and Set Designers create visual environments, Installation Artists focus on immersive art installations often in public or gallery settings, emphasizing artistic expression. Set Designers primarily design environments for film, TV, or theater productions, prioritizing storytelling and functionality. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the creative industry.

How do you become an installation artist?

To become an installation artist, individuals typically develop skills in art, sculpture, or design through formal education such as a bachelor's degree in fine arts or related fields. Gaining experience by creating diverse projects, building a portfolio, and understanding materials and tools are essential, along with networking within the art community and exhibiting work to establish a reputation.

How much do installation artists make?

Installation artists' earnings vary widely based on experience, location, and project scope. According to industry data, they typically earn between $30,000 and $70,000 annually, with some successful artists earning more through commissions, gallery sales, or public art projects. Many work freelance, requiring strong skills in design, craftsmanship, and project management.

How to make money as an installation artist?

Installation artists can generate income through commissions for public or private art projects, selling their work in galleries or art fairs, and offering workshops or consulting services. Building a strong portfolio, networking with clients and galleries, and developing technical skills with tools like CAD or 3D modeling can enhance earning opportunities.

What are popular job titles related to Installation Artist jobs in California?

For Installation Artist jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Installation Artist jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Installation Artist jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Installation Artist jobs?

Cities in California with the most Installation Artist job openings:

Installation Artist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Installation Artist job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 53% Full Time, 39% Part Time, and 8% Temporary. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,083 per year, or $29.8 per hour.

Artist in Residence

Academy of Creative Technology Antelope Valley

Palmdale, CA • On-site

$135K - $162K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

The Academy of Creative Technologies, Antelope Valley is a Media and Technology Charter School in Antelope Valley, California for K-12 grades. We are dedicated to providing a dynamic and innovative learning environment for our students. Our mission is to inspire creativity, critical thinking, and technological proficiency while fostering a supportive community.
We believe that a strong partnership between home and school is key to student success. To support this, we provide a range of resources and links that are accessible to both students and parents
JOB TITLE: Artist in Residence
REPORTS TO: Executive Director
CLASSIFICATION: Exempt
Position Overview
The Artist in Residence at the Academy of Creative Technologies - Antelope Valley plays a vital role in integrating the arts into our project-based learning (PBL) environment. Reporting to the Executive Director, the Artist in Residence will collaborate with facilitators, learners, and the leadership team to inspire creativity, provide specialized instruction in an art form (e.g., visual arts, music, dance, theater, digital media), and support the academic and social-emotional growth of students. This position is ideal for a practicing artist-educator with a passion for youth engagement and arts integration in education.
Duties and Responsibilities
Creative Instruction & Integration
  • Design and implement interdisciplinary art-based workshops and residencies that align with schoolwide project-based learning goals.
  • Collaborate with facilitators to infuse creative practices into core curriculum across grade levels and subjects.
  • Serve as a mentor and artistic coach for learners engaged in visual, performing, or digital arts projects.
  • Support exhibitions, showcases, and performances that celebrate student work and artistic achievement.
Cultural Enrichment & Community Building
  • Cultivate a positive, inclusive, and creative school culture by modeling artistic expression, collaboration, and cultural awareness.
  • Lead arts-based events, community outreach, or enrichment activities that enhance school identity and engage families and stakeholders.
  • Facilitate co-curricular programs such as art clubs, school productions, media projects, or public art installations.
Professional Collaboration
  • Partner with instructional leaders and Care Team members to support learners' personal, academic, and creative development.
  • Participate in planning meetings, reflective supervision, staff training, and interdisciplinary curriculum development.
  • Work with outside organizations, teaching artists, or arts institutions to bring additional creative resources into the school community.
Program Development & Leadership
  • Assist with the development of an arts integration framework that supports standards-aligned, equity-centered instruction.
  • Collect documentation and student work samples for exhibitions, portfolios, and assessments of learning through the arts.
  • Contribute to the design of performance-based assessments that measure both academic and artistic growth.

Other Responsibilities
  • Represent Academy of Creative Technologies - Antelope Valley in a professional and creative manner across all public interactions.
  • Maintain professional competence through ongoing participation in artistic practice and educational professional development.
  • Provide guidance on arts-related curriculum resources, equipment needs, and instructional materials.
  • Attend and support campus events, exhibitions, and special programs.
  • Foster an entrepreneurial spirit in learners and staff by promoting innovation, curiosity, and experimentation.
  • Participate in all-school activities and support the mission, vision, and values of ACT-AV in every aspect of the role.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by the Executive Director.

Essential Functions
  • Communicate effectively across platforms (in person, phone, virtual).
  • Stand or sit for extended periods; lift or move items up to 30 pounds.
  • Travel between sites or to external venues for performances or exhibitions (if applicable).
  • Adapt to varied physical environments, including outdoor settings.
  • Demonstrate emotional intelligence and professionalism in high-pressure situations.
  • Engage in creative processes while balancing instructional responsibilities and learner needs.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in Fine Arts, Art Education, Digital Media, Music, Theater, or a related field (Master's Degree preferred).
  • Demonstrated experience as a practicing artist and/or arts educator.
  • Experience working in an educational or youth-centered environment.
  • Familiarity with project-based learning, arts integration, and culturally responsive teaching.
  • Passion for mentoring young artists and collaborating with educators.
  • Excellent interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.
  • Strong commitment to ACT-AV's mission and belief in the transformative power of arts education.

Compensation
Compensation is commensurate with experience and placement on the appropriate pay scale.
Application Requirements
Please submit a cover letter, resume, and portfolio or link to your creative work that demonstrates your artistic experience and teaching philosophy.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Academy of Creative Technologies - Antelope Valley is committed to equity, inclusion, and celebrating diversity. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds, especially those from traditionally underrepresented communities in the arts and education sectors.

Apply