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Prop Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

AFTCO MFG CO, INC

Production Assistant

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$25 - $26/hr

... Prop 65, PFAS, etc.,) performance (water repellency, sun protection, etc.,) and durability. * Help where needed with PO's and distro's * Assist with printing spec sheets for the QC team Company ...

Golden Pet Brands

Production Designer

Burbank, CA · On-site +1

Anticipate prop needs during pre-production based on scripts and creative briefs, and assist with tracking prop-related expenses and budgets. Wardrobe * Coordinate wardrobe needs for productions ...

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Prop Assistant information

See California salary details

$8

$24

$55

How much do prop assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for prop assistant in California is $24.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.83 and $25.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a prop assistant?

Prop Assistants are key members of the props department in film, television, and theater productions. They help source, organize, maintain, and manage all props used on set, ensuring they are available and in proper condition for each scene. Prop Assistants work closely with the Prop Master and other crew members to set up props before and during shoots, handle continuity, and sometimes even repair or modify props as needed. Their role is vital for creating believable and seamless storytelling on screen or stage.

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

To thrive as a Prop Assistant, you need a strong understanding of set operations, attention to detail, and organizational skills, often gained through experience in theater, film, or related fields. Familiarity with prop inventory systems, basic hand tools, and safety protocols is commonly required. Strong communication, problem-solving, and adaptability help you collaborate efficiently with the art department and respond to last-minute changes. These skills ensure that props are sourced, managed, and delivered seamlessly, contributing to the smooth execution of productions.

What are the most common challenges faced by a prop assistant during a production, and how can they be managed?

Prop Assistants often face challenges such as last-minute changes to scenes, managing multiple props simultaneously, and ensuring continuity between takes. Staying organized, maintaining detailed inventories, and communicating closely with the props master, directors, and other departments are key to overcoming these hurdles. Flexibility and quick problem-solving skills also help Prop Assistants adapt to the fast-paced environment of film, TV, or theater productions.

What is the difference between Prop Assistant vs Set Decorator?

AspectProp AssistantSet Decorator
CredentialsRelevant experience, sometimes certifications in set or prop managementExperience in interior design, decorating, or set dressing; certifications vary
Work EnvironmentOn set, assisting with prop setup and managementOn set or location, responsible for decorating and dressing sets
Industry UsageCommonly used in film, TV, theater productionsUsed in film, TV, theater, and commercial productions
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for entry-level or support roles in propsCompared for roles involving set dressing and aesthetic design

The Prop Assistant primarily supports the handling and management of props on set, focusing on logistics and organization. The Set Decorator is responsible for designing and dressing the set to achieve the desired visual style. While both roles work closely in production environments, the Prop Assistant handles prop logistics, whereas the Set Decorator focuses on aesthetic design and set dressing.

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

The most popular types of Prop jobs in California are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Prop Assistant jobs?

Cities in California with the most Prop Assistant job openings:

Prop Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Prop Assistant job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, and 22% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,413 per year, or $24.2 per hour.

Head Carpenter / Prop Master, The Ford

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

Los Angeles Philharmonic
Music Bands and Freelance Musicians • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Los Angeles Philharmonicexternal

$43.77/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

The Ford is currently accepting resumes for a Head Carpenter / Prop Master.
This dual-role position is responsible for Head Carpenter and Prop Master duties, servicing local community-produced concerts, jazz/pop/rock concerts, small theatrical and opera productions, orchestral programming, and movie nights. The Head Carpenter / Prop Master position is a working Head position.
About The Ford:
The Ford is a 100+ year-old, 1,200-seat, outdoor amphitheater in Los Angeles, owned by Los Angeles County Parks and Recreation and operated by the Los Angeles Philharmonic Association. The venue operates seasonally between May and October.
Duties and Responsibilities:
• Stage Operations: Set, move, and strike risers, musician platforms, scenery, and stairways.
• Sunshade Management: Regularly deploy and strike the sunshade over the stage and seating areas.
• Rigging Safety: Ensure the successful and safe implementation of all stage and rigging equipment.
• Orchestral Support: Set up and service the Los Angeles Philharmonic.
• Technical Tasks: Perform duties including, but not limited to, stage carpentry, rigging, prop
construction, vendor coordination, and equipment/facility maintenance.
• Crew Management: Supervise, train, and develop the stage crew; place necessary crew calls with the Local union as required.
• Administrative Duties: Enter and maintain carpenter and prop department weekly payroll; attend weekly remote production meetings.
• Collaboration: Partner with other departments to maintain a high quality of production.
• Compliance: Understand and adhere to the venue's current Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).
Qualifications:
• Experience: Minimum of 3 years of experience as a Head Carpenter or Assistant Carpenter.
• Production Knowledge: Strong knowledge of orchestra set-ups, instrumentation, rigging, and stage carpentry.
• Safety Certifications: Minimum OSHA 10 Certification required upon hire; must obtain OSHA 30 certification once hired.
• Technical Skills: Experience with staging and dance flooring; proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.
• Industry Standards: Competency in and knowledge of safe theatrical stage working conditions and practices.
• Leadership & Soft Skills: Strong leadership, organizational, and technical skills; excellent
communication skills with management staff and visiting production teams.
Physical Demands & Working Conditions:
• Environment: Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Mobility: Ability to bend, stand, and walk-including navigating hilly terrain and stairs-for the duration of an entire work shift.
• Lifting: Ability to safely lift and carry up to 50 lbs. independently, and up to 150 lbs. with the
assistance of other employees.
• Pace: Ability to perform effectively in a fast-paced work environment.
Pay Rate: $43.77/hour | Note that The Ford employees are covered by a collective bargaining agreement with I.A.S.T.E Local 33, and union membership is a condition of employment.
How to Apply:
Resumes must be submitted to applicant@laphil.org.
Please use the subject line: The Ford Head Carpenter/Prop

Apply