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Prop Artist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

3D Artist

San Francisco, CA · On-site +1

$110K - $140K/yr

As a 3D Artist, you will craft characters, environments, and educational 3D motion graphic ... Designing & creating characters, environments & prop assets; * Rigging and animating characters and ...

Level Design Artist

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$90 - $110/hr

You are equally an artist and a designer, with the ability to touch every aspect of the level ... Attend level preproduction meetings and propose environment, prop, camera and lighting ideas that ...

You are equally an artist and a designer, with the ability to touch every aspect of the level ... Attend level preproduction meetings and propose environment, prop, camera and lighting ideas that ...

Level Design Artist

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

You are equally an artist and a designer, with the ability to touch every aspect of the level ... Attend level preproduction meetings and propose environment, prop, camera and lighting ideas that ...

You are equally an artist and a designer, with the ability to touch every aspect of the level ... Attend level preproduction meetings and propose environment, prop, camera and lighting ideas that ...

Level Design Artist

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$90 - $110/hr

You are equally an artist and a designer, with the ability to touch every aspect of the level ... Attend level preproduction meetings and propose environment, prop, camera and lighting ideas that ...

Spatial Windows Designer

Campbell, CA · On-site

$120K - $180K/yr

Select, source, and test innovative materials, prop elements, kinetic features, lighting setups ... artistic output under firm retail deadlines. Preferred Qualifications & Skills * Proven experience ...

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Prop Artist information

See California salary details

$30.1K

$127.8K

$150.5K

How much do prop artist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for prop artist in California is $127,844.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $125,300.00 and $150,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a prop artist?

A Prop Artist is responsible for creating 3D models of objects used in games, films, or other digital environments. These props can range from everyday items like furniture and weapons to complex machinery or fantasy elements. They work closely with environment artists and designers to ensure assets match the project's visual style and technical requirements. Prop Artists typically use software like Maya, Blender, and Substance Painter to model, sculpt, and texture their creations. Their work enhances the realism and immersion of a scene by adding detailed, high-quality objects.

What types of daily tasks can a prop artist expect, and how do they fit into the overall production pipeline?

As a Prop Artist, your daily tasks typically include modeling, sculpting, and texturing a variety of 3D objects or props based on concept art or reference materials, while ensuring they meet technical requirements for the chosen engine or platform. You’ll regularly collaborate with environment artists, animators, and art directors to make sure props visually match the project’s style and integrate smoothly into scenes. Review sessions and feedback cycles are a routine part of the job, so flexibility and the ability to iterate quickly are key. By delivering polished, optimized props, you help bring immersive worlds to life and support the larger visual storytelling goals of your team.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a prop artist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Prop Artist, you need strong artistic skills in 3D modeling, texturing, and an understanding of form and color, usually supported by a degree in art, design, or a related field. Proficiency with industry-standard software such as Autodesk Maya, Blender, ZBrush, and Adobe Photoshop is highly valuable, and knowledge of real-time engines like Unreal Engine or Unity is often required. Excellent teamwork, communication, and time management skills help you collaborate effectively and meet project deadlines. These skills are critical for creating high-quality, visually compelling assets that fit seamlessly within the style and technical constraints of a game or film production.

How do you become a prop artist?

To become a prop artist, you typically need a background in art, design, or a related field, along with proficiency in 3D modeling and sculpting software such as Blender, Maya, or ZBrush. Building a strong portfolio showcasing your work and gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions in film, television, or game production can help you enter the industry.

How much do prop artists make?

Prop artists typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced artists working on major productions can earn higher salaries, especially with specialized skills in materials, fabrication, and design tools.

What are the most commonly searched types of Prop Artist jobs in California?

The most popular types of Prop Artist jobs in California are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Prop Artist jobs?

Cities in California with the most Prop Artist job openings:

Infographic showing various Prop Artist job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, and 42% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $127,844 per year, or $61.5 per hour.

Instructor in Drama/Theater Arts (Initial focus: Prop & Scene Design/Construction/Crew Management)

Ventura County Community College District

Camarillo, CA • On-site

$58K - $76K/yr

Part-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Instructor in Drama/Theater Arts (Initial focus: Prop & Scene Design/Construction/Crew Management) at Ventura County Community College District Share on X Print Application Deadline 12/22/2026 11:59 PM Pacific Date Posted 6/25/2026 Contact VCCCD Human Resources Number of Openings Not Specified Salary Pay Range 2,007 - 3,108 Stipend Length of Work Year See Position Description Employment Type Part Time Job Description / Essential Elements: Print Instructor in Drama/Theater Arts (Initial focus: Prop & Scene Design/Construction/Crew Management) Ventura County Community College District Salary: Job Type: Part-Time Faculty Job Number: 2026-00194 Location: Districtwide (Ventura County CA), CA Department: MC - Student Learning Closing: Continuous Description This is a pool to fill a part-time Instructor position at Moorpark College in Theater Arts with an initial Focus on Prop & Scene Design/Construction/Crew Management) beginning Fall 2026 semester. If you have applied to previous pools in this discipline, you will need to reapply to this pool to continue to be considered. Under the general direction of a dean, an Instructor (Non-Contact/Temporary) provides comprehensive classroom instruction to students from diverse backgrounds for the purpose of facilitating the attainment of their academic or vocational objectives.

In accordance with the provisions of Education Code sections 87482.5, Instructors (Non- Contract/Temporary) may be employed up to 67% of a full-time assignment. The initial focus of this teaching assignment will be in the area of Prop & Scene Design/Construction/Crew Management, which falls under the instructional discipline of Drama/Theater Arts. WHAT YOU'LL DO The Theatre Arts Department at Moorpark College seeks an accomplished prop and scenic designer and educator withan advanced ability for construction as well as ability in managing crews for a parti-time faculty position

Due to the College's proximity to the Los Angeles metropolitan area, a successful candidate will have an established design portfolio of professional credentials in theatre and possibly the film and television industries as well. The ideal individual for this position will possess a comprehensive understanding of the craft and art of scenic and prop design and build. Applicants should demonstrate strong leadership skills, a desire to work in an educational environment at the community college level and be able to effectively recruit and mentor our diverse and often marginalized student population.

Under the general direction of a dean, an Instructor (Non-Contract/Temporary) provides comprehensive classroom instruction to students from diverse backgrounds for the purpose of facilitating the attainment of their academic or vocational objectives. In accordance with the provisions of Education Code sections 87482.5, Instructors (Non-Contract/ Temporary) may be employed up to 67% of a full-time assignment. Under the general direction of a dean, an Instructor (Non-Contact/Temporary) provides comprehensive classroom instruction to students from diverse backgrounds for the purpose of facilitating the attainment of their academic or vocational objectives

In accordance with the provisions of Education Code sections 87482.5, Instructors (Non-Contract/Temporary) may be employed up to 67% of a full-time assignment. WHERE YOU'LL WORK Moorpark College, one of three colleges in the Ventura County Community College District, was founded in 1967. It serves approximately 15,000 students, and with a "students first" philosophy, empowers its diverse community of learners to complete their goals for academic transfer, basic skills, and career education

Moorpark College is one of the most beautiful community colleges in California. Set on 150 acres, the campus is nestled in the foothills on the southeastern flank of Ventura County, about 40 miles from UCLA, and approximately 75 miles from UC Santa Barbara. It is also a short drive from CSU Northridge, CSU Channel Islands, and California Lutheran University.

Moorpark College was recognized as an Aspen Prize Finalist in 2023 and ranked fourth in the nation by the Aspen College Excellence Program. Known for transfer of students to public and private universities, Moorpark College has the highest number of Associate Degree for Transfers among California community colleges its size. Moorpark College has the distinction of being recognized as a Champion of Higher Education by the Campaign for College Opportunity in each of the last five years.

A Hispanic Serving Institution, it has an excellent reputation for preparing minority and economically disadvantaged students for university transfer and career success. Moorpark College's signature career/technical programs include nursing, radiation technology, biotechnology, and exotic animal training which incorporates the world-renowned Teaching Zoo. The college also offers a dynamic range of classes and programs in the visual and performing arts, and its pristine athletic fields and mild climate provide an excellent home for our student athletes.

Moorpark College has received numerous grants including a $2.9 million Department of Education Title V grant in 2020 for its Project STEM Impacto, which develops student cohorts in biology, biotechnology, and computer network systems engineering. Moorpark College student outcomes demonstrate that education inspires and and transforms communities. More information can be found on the https://www.moorparkcollege.edu/

WHO WE AREThe Ventura County Community College District (VCCCD) is a public community college district serving residents through Ventura County. VCCCD's three colleges - Moorpark College, Oxnard College, and Ventura College - offer programs for transfer to four-year colleges and universities; career technical training, basic skills instruction; as well as community service, economic development, and continuing education for cultural growth, life enrichment, and skills improvement. The Ventura County Community College District recognizes that a diverse community of faculty, staff, and administrators promotes academic excellence and creates an inclusive educational and work environment for its employees, contractors, students, and the community it serves.

With the understanding that a diverse community fosters multi-cultural awareness, promotes mutual understanding and respect, and provides role models for all students, VCCCD is committed to recruiting and employing a diverse and qualified group of administrators, faculty, and staff members who are dedicated to the success of all college students.The Ventura County Community College District does not engage in any employment practice that discriminates against any employee or applicant for employment on the basis of ethnic group identification, race, color, language, accent, immigration status, ancestry, national origin, political beliefs, age, gender, sex, religion, transgender, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, and/or physical or mental disability. Representative Duties Provide academic instruction to students through lecture, lab, or performance courses; assess and develop cognitive abilities, communication skills, and higher order thinking skills among students through appropriate assignments and activities in one-on-one, classroom, and distance mediated instructional settings. E Advise and instruct students regarding programs of study, other institutions of higher education, lifelong learning resources, and effective study skills; refer students to support services, programs, resources, and other professionals as appropriate

E Observe and evaluate student performance in meeting course objectives and student learning outcomes through assignments, projects, discussions, and examinations; provide feedback in a timely manner to student inquiries in class, online, or during established consultation office hours. E Plan and organize instruction according to approved course outlines and student learning outcomes to maximize student learning in alignment with department, college, and district goals; implement the student performance objectives as listed on the official course outline of record. E Maintain current, accurate records of course enrollment, attendance, student academic progress, course curriculum, and student learning outcomes; prepare and submit data and reports related to course and student progress in a timely manner.

E Evaluate and select instructional materials such as textbooks, manuals, software, and tools in collaboration, as appropriate, with discipline faculty; order instructional materials according to campus bookstore procedure to ensure timely delivery. E Revise and update course content and materials of instruction in accordance with new theory, application, and industry developments within the discipline or area of specialization. E Update syllabi; collaborate with discipline faculty on a regular basis to assess and revise measurable student performance indicators for each course.

E May participate in curriculum and program development; may provide input into the development of student learning outcomes. May attend and participate on committees and in department, division, campus, and district meetings. May participate in articulation and matriculation related activities.

May provide work direction to others. Perform related duties as assigned. E = Essential duties Minimum Qualifications Candidates must possess the minimum qualifications for the discipline as approved by the California Community Colleges Board of Governors and defined in the https://www.cccco.edu/-/media/CCCCO-Website/docs/minimum-qualifications/CCCCOReport-Minimum-Qualifications-2023_.pdf?la=en&hash=D3075F5E24FF5D3DB759E61009DC66F0F5060FF6

Master's or Master of Fine Arts in drama/theater arts/performance OR Bachelor's or Bachelor of Fine Arts in drama/theater arts/performance ANDMaster's in comparative literature, English, communication studies, speech, literature OR the equivalent* ORpossession of a valid California Community College Teaching Credential appropriate to the discipline. All coursework must be from a recognized accredited college or university. If you have competed your education at an institution outside of the United States, please see the section below titled "Foreign Transcripts" for additional information.

*EQUIVALENCY The Ventura County Community College District, in its desire to select outstanding faculty members from the largest possible pool of qualified applicants, recognizes the fact that candidates may attain expertise in a discipline through a variety of means. Certain combinations of education, experience and other accomplishments in the field may be judged by the District as equal to the stated minimum qualifications for this position. Candidates whose transcripts do not list the title of their degree exactly as listed above, but feel they possess such equivalent qualifications are encouraged to complete and submit the https://www.vcccd.edu/sites/default/files/departments/human-resources/supplemental_questionnaire_for_equivalency_03.05.15_0.pdf https://get.adobe.com/reader/ https://get.adobe.com/reader/ with their application for review by the Districtwide Equivalency Committee

Example: Minimum Qualifications state: "Master's degree in agriculture". Candidate's transcripts state: "Master's degree in agricultural science". Since the degree on the candidate's transcripts in the example do not EXACTLY MATCH the degree listed in the minimum qualifications section, this candidate MUST complete the https://www.vcccd.edu/sites/default/files/departments/human-resources/supplemental_questionnaire_for_equivalency_03.05.15_0.pdf https://get.adobe.com/reader/ in order to be considered https://get.adobe.com/reader/

When completing the form, be sure to explain in detail how your qualifications are equivalent to the required minimum qualifications. Do not assume that you do not need to submit a Supplemental Questionnaire for Equivalency because your degree is similar to a degree stated in the minimum qualifications. Degree titles that are not an exact match will not be considered outside of the equivalency process.

The equivalency review is an independent process for district wide disciplines that is separate from the recruitment process to fill a vacancy. A subcommittee of discipline experts that is coordinated by an Academic Senate President will review the equivalency materials and make a recommendation as to whether or not the applicant demonstrated they have qualifications that are equivalent to those shown in the minimum qualifications section of the job posting. For disciplines that are unique to a specific campus the equivalency may be done by the hiring committee along with an Academic Senate President.

Please be aware that the hiring committee may not be able to wait for the results from the equivalency review due to various time constraints and may need to move forward with the recruitment process. For further details regarding equivalency and the criteria by which equivalency may be granted, please reviewhttps://go.boarddocs.com/ca/vcccd/Board.nsf/goto?open&id=83LDBP0DD9E5 and https://go.boarddocs.com/ca/vcccd/Board.nsf/goto?open&id=88NT6K75D7D6. Supplemental Information SELECTION PROCESS If a vacancy in this discipline becomes available at one of the campuses, the applications in this pool will be reviewed by the hiring department

Only complete application packets that include the required documents and that meet the minimum qualifications (or that have been determined to possess equivalent qualifications) will be reviewed. The candidates deemed most qualified for the position will be invited to an interview. When completing the application and the supplemental questions, it is important to outline in detail your education, training (classes, seminars, workshops), and experience.

You will be evaluated based upon the information provided. APPLICATION PROCEDURE If you need assistance using the online application system please contact the GovernmentJobs.com applicant support line at (855) 524-5627 between the hours of 6 AM to 5 PM, Pacific Time, Monday through Friday. All applicants, including previous and current VCCCD employees, must submit the following documents with their application in order to be considered

Please be aware that the hiring committee will NOT have access to materials kept in District personnel files, such as transcripts, and such materials will not be considered unless they are included in your application packet. All required documents must be submitted by the applicant. You may submit a new application once every 24 hours, but it must have all of the attachments as listed below.

Failure to submit these materials may result in disqualification. ...