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Prop Design Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

WSU -

Stage Properties Manager

Dayton, OH · On-site

$55K/yr

... prop use during rehearsals and performances. * 10% - Collaboration and service, working with Theatre Design and Production faculty and staff on operational planning, communication, and continuous ...

Fern-Expo

Project Manager

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Coordination of prop deliveries and custom outside purchases for assigned shows * How work is ... Keep operations, design and the account team informed of inventory constraints affecting their ...

All JobsProp Design JobsProp Design Jobs in Ohio

Prop Design information

See Ohio 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 Ohio is $48.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37.26 and $58.75 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 Ohio?

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

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

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

What cities in Ohio are hiring for Prop Design jobs?

Cities in Ohio with the most Prop Design job openings:

Prop Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Prop Design job openings in Ohio as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 83% In-person, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,237 per year, or $48.2 per hour.

Stage Properties Manager

Dayton, OH • On-site

WSU -
See more jobs at WSU -external

$55K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Position Information (Default Section)
EEO Statement
Wright State University is an equal opportunity employer.
Faculty Rank or Job Title Stage Properties Manager Job Category: Administrative (exempt/non-exempt) Department School of Fine and Performing Arts EEO number: 26P182 Position FTE
100%
Minimum Annual Salary $55,000 Salary Band: UC S04 Job Summary/Basic Function:
The Wright State Theatre area in the School of Fine and Performing Arts is seeking a skilled and detail-oriented professional to serve as Theatre Properties Master and join our collaborative faculty, staff, and student production community. Our production program supports a full season of theatrical works that provide students with hands-on, professional-level training in design, technology, and production practices.
We are seeking a colleague who can oversee the creation, acquisition, and management of all theatrical properties in support of departmental productions. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong organizational and budgeting skills, the ability to collaborate effectively with directors, designers, stage managers, and technical staff, and a commitment to mentoring students in safe, efficient, and industry-standard prop practices.
Join us in supporting high-quality theatrical storytelling in an educational environment where craftsmanship, collaboration, and student learning are central to the production process.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree plus five years of tested experience specific to performing arts, or a Master's degree (MFA preferred) in Theatre, Technical Production, or a related field plus three years of experience.

Preferred Qualifications Essential Functions and percent of time:
  • 40% - Run and maintain the Prop Shop, including building, sourcing, purchasing, or renting props; developing prop lists through script analysis; maintaining detailed budgets; and managing a consistently updated and organized prop inventory.
  • 15% - Student supervision and mentoring, including training, overseeing, and supporting student workers and Theatre Properties majors.
  • 30% - Assist productions, including coordinating prop plans for load-in, rehearsals, run, and strike; attending production meetings; and ensuring safe and appropriate prop use during rehearsals and performances.
  • 10% - Collaboration and service, working with Theatre Design and Production faculty and staff on operational planning, communication, and continuous improvement of the properties area.
  • 5% - teach two (2) courses per year

Essential Functions and percent of time (cont'd): Non-Essential Functions and percent of time: Working Conditions
To preserve the safety and security of the campus community and to maintain the integrity of university operations, it is the policy of Wright State University making an employment offer contingent on various background checks, such as a criminal record, credit history when job related and/or education verifications. Additionally, an administrative review shall be conducted whenever the university learns that an employee is charged with or convicted of a crime (except for minor vehicle violations). Frequently asked questions related to background checks may be found on the Human resources website at http://www.wright.edu/human-resources.
Effective July 1, 2017, per Policy 7230 Wright State University is tobacco-free. Tobacco use, including the sale, advertising sampling and distribution of tobacco products and tobacco related items is prohibited in all university facilities, on all university owned or leased grounds, university owned or operated residence halls and apartments, and at all university sponsored events regardless of location. Tobacco use is also prohibited in all university vehicles or on any equipment owned, leased or operated by Wright State University. This policy applies to anyone on campus including students, faculty, staff, visitors, consultants, vendors, patients, volunteers, and contractor employees.
Special Instructions to Applicants
Qualified applicants should submit a portfolio showcasing their experience in stage properties, including examples of prop design, construction, sourcing, and onstage implementation. Please include detailed descriptions of your role in each project and attach under "Other Document 1".
Posting Date 04/28/2026 First Consideration Date: Closing Date Open Until Filled Yes

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