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Prop Design Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Kaiser Aluminum

Senior Scientist

Newburgh, IN · On-site

$86K - $118K/yr

Issue certification letters to customers (FDA, FCN, EU, Prop 65, etc.) * Lead FDA audits and ... Define coating design rules and selection criteria * Solve complex customer or production-related ...

All JobsProp Design JobsProp Design Jobs in Indiana

Prop Design information

See Indiana salary details

$17

$48

$69

How much do prop design jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for prop design in Indiana is $48.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37.31 and $58.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is prop design?

Prop design is the process of creating and developing objects that actors interact with on stage, in film, or on television. These objects, known as props, can range from everyday items like books and cups to fantastical creations for imaginative worlds. Prop designers work closely with directors, set designers, and other production staff to ensure props meet the story's needs, are safe for use, and fit the visual style of the production. Their work may involve sketching, building, painting, and sometimes sourcing items. Effective prop design helps bring authenticity and depth to a production.

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

To thrive as a Prop Designer, you need strong artistic ability, spatial awareness, and a solid understanding of design principles, often supported by a degree in art, design, or a related field. Familiarity with digital design software (such as Adobe Creative Suite, SketchUp, or CAD), model-making tools, and sometimes 3D printing technologies is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and effective collaboration are vital soft skills for bringing concepts to life and working within larger creative teams. These skills ensure the creation of visually compelling, functional props that enhance storytelling and meet production needs.

What are some common challenges faced by prop designers when collaborating with directors and other creative departments?

Prop designers often collaborate closely with directors, set designers, and costume teams to ensure that props align with the overall vision of a production. A common challenge is balancing creative ideas with practical constraints like budget, materials availability, and time. Effective communication is essential, as last-minute script changes or design adjustments may require rapid problem-solving and flexibility. Building strong relationships with other departments helps streamline the process and ensures that props enhance the storytelling while meeting safety and functional requirements.

What is the difference between Prop Design vs Set Design?

AspectProp DesignSet Design
Primary FocusCreating and sourcing individual props used on setDesigning entire physical environments and backgrounds
Required SkillsProp sourcing, craftsmanship, attention to detailSet construction, spatial planning, scenic design
Work EnvironmentWorkshops, on-location, studioStudio, on-location, construction sites
Industry UsageFilm, TV, theater, commercialsFilm, TV, theater, events

Prop Design focuses on creating and sourcing individual objects that enhance storytelling, while Set Design involves designing entire environments. Both roles collaborate closely but serve different aspects of production design.

How do you become a prop designer?

To become a prop designer, develop skills in art, sculpture, and design, often through a degree in fine arts, design, or a related field. Gaining experience with tools like CAD software and building a strong portfolio are essential, along with understanding the production process and collaborating with set designers and directors.

What are popular job titles related to Prop Design jobs in Indiana?

For Prop Design jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Prop Design jobs in Indiana look for?

The top searched job categories for Prop Design jobs in Indiana are:

What cities in Indiana are hiring for Prop Design jobs?

Cities in Indiana with the most Prop Design job openings:

Prop Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Prop Design job openings in Indiana as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $100,328 per year, or $48.2 per hour.

Design Engineer (Indiana Based)

Indianapolis, IN • On-site

Creative Works
See more jobs at Creative Worksexternal

$50K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 4 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

About Creative Works
We create powerful emotions and memories through immersive attractions. We are a full-service theme creator, prop builder, and attractions provider to theme parks, museums, family entertainment centers, restaurants, tourist attractions, and other venues. Since 1997, we have brought ideas to life with a talented team of designers, sculptors, craftsmen, and artisans, and we are proud to have delivered the WOW Effect to a wide variety of destinations across the globe.
We've been named as one of INC 5000's fastest-growing companies in America three times in a row and are in the top 60 here in Indiana. We've also been named one of The Best Places To Work In Indiana twice in a row. Inside our walls, you'll find lots of creative people who are passionate about what they do and make. Every day is different with new challenges. We pride ourselves on creating an amazing culture where our employees can grow professionally and personally. Every company says this, but we can actually prove it!
Job Description
The Design Engineer transforms creative ideas into reliable, manufacturable products for immersive attractions and interactive experiences. Working alongside designers, fabricators, and technical teams, you'll develop innovative mechanical solutions that bring one-of-a-kind concepts to life.
No two projects are the same. One week you might be designing a hidden passage or animated prop, the next you could be developing a custom mechanism for an interactive exhibit or themed environment. If you enjoy solving unique problems, learning new skills, and seeing your ideas become real, you'll feel at home here.
We're not looking for someone who knows everything-we're looking for someone who loves figuring things out. Whether you're a recent graduate, self-taught, or have years of hands-on experience, what matters most is your curiosity, mechanical aptitude, and willingness to learn. We value people who ask questions, enjoy building things, and take pride in solving real-world problems. If you're excited to create experiences that have never been built before, we'd love to see what you can do.
Duties & Responsibilities:
  • Design custom mechanical systems, assemblies, and mechanisms using SolidWorks.
  • Create production-ready manufacturing drawings, assemblies, and bills of materials within our ERP system.
  • Develop engineering solutions that balance creativity, functionality, manufacturability, reliability, and cost.
  • Collaborate with Design, Concept, Technical, and Fabrication teams throughout the product development process.
  • Design custom props, interactive elements, structural assemblies, and motion systems.
  • Select appropriate materials, hardware, actuators, bearings, and purchased components.
  • Prototype, test, troubleshoot, and refine designs to improve performance and reliability.
  • Support fabrication, assembly, installation, and field troubleshooting as needed.
  • Continuously improve designs, processes, and standard practices while managing multiple projects simultaneously.
  • Maintain engineering documentation and ensure designs meet project requirements and production schedules.

Keys to success:
  • Take ownership of your projects from concept through installation.
  • Think like a builder-design with manufacturing, assembly, serviceability, and reliability in mind.
  • Communicate effectively and collaborate with designers, fabricators, technicians, and project managers.
  • Adapt to changing priorities and evolving project requirements.
  • Be curious, ask questions, and continuously look for better ways to solve problems.
  • Enjoy learning new technologies, materials, and manufacturing methods.
  • Be willing to step away from the computer to prototype, test, and work alongside the fabrication team.
  • Thrive in collaborative environment built on accountability, creativity, and mutual respect.

Qualification Requirements:
We're more interested in your ability to solve problems than the path you took to get here. Whether you're a recent graduate, self-taught, or have years of hands-on experience, we'd love to see what you've built.
  • Proficient in SolidWorks, including part modeling, assemblies, and manufacturing drawings.
  • Education in Mechanical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Technology, Industrial Design, CAD Technology, or a related field is preferred, but equivalent hands-on experience is equally valued.
  • A portfolio, school projects, personal projects, or professional work that demonstrates your design and problem-solving abilities.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and a desire to learn.
  • Ability to communicate ideas and collaborate with cross-functional teams.
  • Experience with Blender or other 3D modeling/rendering software is a plus.
  • Hands-on experience with fabrication, machining, welding, woodworking, 3D printing, robotics, or other personal build projects is a plus.
  • Experience with ERP, PDM, or manufacturing software is a plus.

Don't meet every qualification? Apply anyway. We're looking for curious, motivated people who enjoy building things and solving problems. If you're excited about creating experiences that have never been built before, we want to hear from you.
Why You'll Love Working Here
At Creative Works, you won't spend years designing the same product. Every project is different, every challenge is new, and you'll have the opportunity to see your ideas transformed into immersive attractions and experiences enjoyed by people around the world. If you're looking for a place where creativity, engineering, and hands-on problem solving come together, you'll fit right in.
Pay and Benefits:
  • Full-Time, Non-Exempt
  • 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM, Monday - Friday
  • Medical, dental, vision, life, ancillary, & pet insurance coverage opportunities available
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • 401K opportunities available (Standard Safe Harbor Match)
  • Employee Discount Program
  • Generous PTO Plan
  • Parental time for the birth or adoption of a child
  • Several paid holidays
  • Paid Volunteer Time Off to serve at a 501(c)3 charitable organization on behalf of the company
  • Onsite fitness facility
  • Salary: $50,000 - $60,000 per year based on experience
  • Weekly pay

*This is an onsite position located at our facility on the southwest side of Indianapolis, IN near I-465 & Sam Jones Expressway.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Creative Works is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
Does this sound like a good fit for you?
If so, please provide a cover letter to us to help us better understand who you are and why you would like to join our team as well as a resume. Thank you!
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