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Prop Design Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

CNC Programmer

Newport News, VA · On-site

$40 - $60/hr

... blade and prop blade development. We are an AS9100 Rev D certified company offering engineering design, analysis, testing and manufacturing in both composites and aerospace metals. For more ...

CNC Programmer

Newport News, VA · On-site

$40 - $60/hr

... blade and prop blade development. We are an AS9100 Rev D certified company offering engineering design, analysis, testing and manufacturing in both composites and aerospace metals. For more ...

CNC Programmer

Newport News, VA · On-site

$40 - $60/hr

... blade and prop blade development. We are an AS9100 Rev D certified company offering engineering design, analysis, testing and manufacturing in both composites and aerospace metals. For more ...

Accounting Specialist

Newport News, VA · On-site

$19.25 - $26/hr

... blade and prop blade development. We are an AS9100 Rev D certified company offering engineering design, analysis, testing and manufacturing in both composites and aerospace metals. For more ...

Cost Accountant

Newport News, VA · On-site

$59K - $79K/yr

... blade and prop blade development. We are an AS9100 Rev D certified company offering engineering design, analysis, testing and manufacturing in both composites and aerospace metals. For more ...

E50 PROP AND REAC ENG PLNG YRD Entity: Newport News Shipbuilding US Citizenship Required for this ... engineering and design; Master's Degree and 4 years of relevant experience. Newport News ...

E50 PROP AND REAC ENG PLNG YRD Entity: Newport News Shipbuilding US Citizenship Required for this ... engineering and design; Master's Degree and 4 years of relevant experience. Newport News ...

E50 PROP AND REAC ENG PLNG YRD Entity: Newport News Shipbuilding US Citizenship Required for this ... engineering and design; Master's Degree and 4 years of relevant experience. Newport News ...

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Showing results 1-20

Prop Design information

See Virginia salary details

$17

$50

$72

How much do prop design jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for prop design in Virginia is $50.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38.85 and $61.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a prop designer?

A prop designer is a professional responsible for creating and sourcing physical objects used on set or stage to support storytelling in film, theater, or television productions. They collaborate with directors and set designers to develop props that fit the production's aesthetic and practical needs, often using design software and craftsmanship skills. Attention to detail and understanding of safety standards are important in this role.

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.

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.

How much money do prop designers make?

Prop designers typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the scale of productions. Entry-level designers may start lower, while experienced professionals working on major projects can earn higher salaries, often supplemented by freelance work or overtime. Skills in materials, fabrication, and design software can influence earning potential.

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 skills do prop designers need?

Prop designers need strong artistic skills, including drawing, sculpting, and model-making, as well as knowledge of materials and fabrication techniques. They should be proficient in design software like CAD or Photoshop and have good problem-solving abilities to create functional and visually appealing props within deadlines. Attention to detail and collaboration skills are also essential in working with directors, set designers, and production teams.

How do you become a prop designer?

To become a prop designer, individuals typically need a background in art, design, or a related field, along with skills in sculpture, painting, or digital modeling. Gaining experience through internships or working on student or independent projects helps build a portfolio that demonstrates creativity and technical ability, which are essential for securing roles in film, theater, or television production.
What are popular job titles related to Prop Design jobs in Virginia? For Prop Design jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Prop Design jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Prop Design job openings:
CNC Programmer

$40 - $60/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

CNC Programmer
Location: Newport News, VA
Shift: 1st shift, Monday - Friday; 6:30am - 3pm
Type: direct hire
About the Company:
Our Client designs and manufactures state of the art aircraft systems and components for the aerospace industry, with a niche in helicopter rotor system and prop blade development. We are AS9100 Rev D certified in all aspects of our operation, working routinely in both composites and aerospace metals.
Job Responsibilities:
- Set-up, Program, operate and assist in assuring proper maintenance of CNC machinery. (CNC Lathes & Mills)
- Follow operating procedures, engineering instructions, and other recognized methods of instructions.
- Work collaboratively with management and machinists to develop optimally orchestrated CNC manufacturing plans and corresponding CNC programming
- Must carefully plan and prepare machine shop manufacturing operations using blueprints or written specifications as the basis to efficiently orchestrate the manufacturing process.
- Uses machine tools (including lathes, milling machines, drill presses, and spindles) to produce precision metal parts of varying design and complexity, and in varying quantities.
- Exercises skill in the planning and documentation of the best sequence of operations for a given part making the best use of equipment and staff available.
Benefits:
- Medical
- Vision
- Life insurance
- Dental
- 401(K) with employer matching
- Generous PTO program
Disclaimer:
By applying for this job, you agree to receive calls, Al-generated calls, text messages, or emails from Synerfac Technical Staffing and our contracted partners. Frequency varies for text messages. Message and data rates may apply. Carriers are not liable for delayed or undeliverable messages. You can reply STOP to cancel and HELP for help. You can access our privacy policy at www.synerfac.com/privacy/
Required Qualifications:
- Must be able to work Monday - Friday; 6:30am - 3pm
- 10 years of programming experience desired.
- Expertise in Mastercam with recent application required.
- Must be extremely well versed in the review and manipulation of highly complex 3D CAD Models.
- Familiarity with SolidWorks CAD software is a plus.
- Experience working within a AS9100 or ISO9000 quality system is a plus.
- Expert level skill required in the reading and interpretation of standard engineering drawing formats used in the manufacture of precision aerospace components.
- Professional level working knowledge of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T)

Synerfac Technical Staffing logo

About Synerfac Technical Staffing

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Since 1987, Synerfac has served three groups, Our Clients, Our Candidates and Our Staff. We treat all three with equal importance because we recognize the synergy of success when one group succeeds, We all succeed. Synerfac is in the business of providing opportunities and adding value. We strive to create extraordinary experiences. For our clients we provide staffing services that enable them to focus on their core competencies which will add value to their businesses. For our employees we provide permanent and temporary assignments that complement their job skills and experience while providing professional and financial rewards. For our staff –we provide careers that are balanced, uplifting and carry the highest rewards by continually improving our business process. Our goal is to enhance the lives and enterprises of all those we touch to make them better off for having known us.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Cherry Hill, NJ, US

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