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Prop Designer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Reference Designer About TrueShort TrueShort is one of the fastest-growing streaming apps in the ... Examples of character, prop, or environment design work * Optional: links to any animation, film ...

Marketing Designer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

The Marketing Designer also collaborates closely with the in-house studio photographer to support ... Support on-set studio photography as needed, including product setup, prop styling, and operating ...

Sr. Experiential 3D Spatial Designer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$109K - $117K/yr

Update fabrication decks with finishes, vinyl placement, prop callouts, and graphics specifications ... Demonstrated experience designing and supporting campaigns, events, or installations exceeding $1 ...

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Prop Designer information

See California salary details

$35K

$82.1K

$108.6K

How much do prop designer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for prop designer in California is $82,059.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,200.00 and $107,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Prop Designer position, and why are they important?

Succeeding as a Prop Designer requires a strong background in art and design, creativity, and attention to detail, often backed by a degree in fine arts, industrial design, or a related field. Proficiency in digital illustration tools such as Adobe Creative Suite, 3D modeling software, and sometimes traditional sculpting or model-making is typically expected. Excellent communication, adaptability, and time management skills help a Prop Designer collaborate effectively and manage deadlines. These abilities ensure that props are both visually compelling and feasible for production, meeting creative and practical needs in fields like film, television, or theater.

Is prop making a good career?

Prop designing is a specialized field within the entertainment industry that involves creating physical objects for films, theater, or television. It requires skills in craftsmanship, materials, and often computer-aided design (CAD), with opportunities for freelance or full-time work. The career can be rewarding for those with creativity and technical ability, but job stability and pay vary based on experience and industry demand.

How much money does a Prop Designer make?

Prop Designers typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects. Entry-level designers may start lower, while experienced professionals working on major productions can earn higher salaries, especially with specialized skills in materials and fabrication.

What is the role of a Prop Designer?

A Prop Designer is responsible for creating and designing physical objects and accessories used in film, theater, or television productions to enhance storytelling. They collaborate with directors and set designers, often using tools like CAD software, to develop realistic or fantastical props that meet production specifications. Attention to detail, craftsmanship, and understanding of materials are essential skills for this role.

What does a Prop Designer do?

A Prop Designer is responsible for creating the visual design of props used in animated films, TV shows, or video games. They sketch, refine, and develop props that fit the overall style and storytelling of a project. Prop Designers collaborate with art directors, character designers, and set designers to ensure consistency and functionality. Their work helps bring depth and authenticity to a story’s environment, enhancing the visual appeal and immersion.

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 strong skills in drawing, 3D modeling, and knowledge of materials. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions in film, theater, or television production helps build a portfolio and industry connections. Proficiency with tools like Photoshop, SketchUp, or CAD software is often essential for success in this role.

What does a typical workflow look like for a Prop Designer, and how do they interact with other members of the production team?

A typical workflow for a Prop Designer involves interpreting scripts or creative briefs to conceptualize and illustrate props, followed by developing detailed drawings or 3D models for approval. Prop Designers work closely with art directors, costume designers, set builders, and sometimes fabricators to ensure their designs fit the overall aesthetic and practical requirements of the production. Throughout the process, they participate in meetings, revise designs based on feedback, and help solve any practical challenges that arise during construction or use on set. Regular collaboration and open communication are essential, as prop designers' work directly supports the visual storytelling and smooth operation of the project.

What are the most commonly searched types of Prop Designer jobs in California? The most popular types of Prop Designer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Prop Designer jobs in California? For Prop Designer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Prop Designer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Prop Designer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Prop Designer jobs? Cities in California with the most Prop Designer job openings:
Infographic showing various Prop Designer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,059 per year, or $39.5 per hour.
Theatre Arts, Paint and Prop Shop - Student Assistant

Theatre Arts, Paint and Prop Shop - Student Assistant

California State University

San Bernardino, CA • On-site

$16.90 - $17/hr

Other

Posted 28 days ago


California State University rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

254th of 611 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Theatre Arts, Paint and Prop Shop - Student Assistant

Apply now Job no: 559652
Work type: Student Assistant
Location: San Bernardino - San Bernardino Campus
Categories: Administrative, Temporary, Part Time, On-site (work in-person at business location), Unit 15 - CSUEU - Student Assistants

Job Summary:

Paint and Prop Shop Student Assistants will assist the Scenic Artist/Props Artisan. Must be willing to work with hands to paint and build and pull props for departmental productions. Job duties include, but are not limited to:
- Sweeping
- Moving furniture or large set pieces
- Lay out designs using precise measurements, or other techniques as needed
- Apply masking to the area to be painted
- Base paint large areas
- Paint mixing and color theory
- Various painting techniques such as wood graining, staining, spray painting, rag roll, sponge painting, texturing, highlight and shadow, mural painting, etc.
- Using products and tools such as sand paper, glues, electric palm sanders, screw guns, hammers, pliers, measuring tapes, staple guns, etc.
- Some sewing
- Cleaning tools, buckets, paintbrushes, and sinks, etc.
- Organizing shop spaces, and storage spaces, as well as adding to our on-line inventory data base.
- Work with professors, staff and fellow students in creating and actualizing scenic and prop elements.
- Mentor other students learning paint and prop work and participate in lab activities.

Responsibilities:

Under direct supervision, duties include but not limited to:
- Maintain the continued organization of the Paint and Prop Shop and inventory
- Demonstrate care, and safety at all times
- Clean brushes and buckets, etc. as needed with minimal guidance.
- Complete painting, crafting, building, or organizational tasks relating to TA productions in a timely manner and with competent skills.
- Additional duties as needed to assist Theatre Department events and needs.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Ability to learn and perform assigned work; follow oral instructions; work cooperatively with faculty, staff, and other students; communicate effectively with all levels; and read and write English at a level appropriate to the position.
  • Special Qualification: Admission or registration as a CSU student.

Required Qualifications:

  • Maintain a 2.0 G.P.A. or greater per semester and cumulative.
  • Students must be enrolled in at least halftime units at CSUSB (6 units undergraduate; 3 units graduate)
  • International students must have full-time enrollment at CSUSB. (12 units undergraduate; 6 units graduate)
  • Eligible to work in the United States
  • Payroll Requirement: Social Security Card

Preferred Qualifications: 

- Able to follow instructions, have attention to detail, organization skills and be punctual
- Previous experience working in the paint and prop shop lab on this campus is preferred.
- Ability to learn quickly and complete assignments in a timely manner
- Ability to multitask
- Be detail oriented, punctual and reliable
- Ability to work both in a team or individual environment
- Interpersonal skills
- Demonstrate creative and artistic abilities as well as willingness to get messy
- Must demonstrate care, and safety at all times
- Must use tools, ladders, and chemicals properly and safely
- Must complete all assigned learning modules

Compensation and Benefits:

Student Employment Anticipated Hiring Range: $16.90 - $17.00 per hour.

The compensation offered will consider internal equity and experience among other factors.

Position Information:

Work status: Part-Time, Temporary, Seasonal

Academic year available hours: Monday through Friday (8:00 am - 5:00 pm).

Summer available hours: Monday through Thursday (7:00 am - 5:30 pm).
The application deadline is: March 09, 2026; however, the position may close when an adequate number of qualified applications are received.

This is an 'On-Campus Only' position. Student Employees are not eligible to telecommute at any time.

California State University, San Bernardino, as part of the CSU system, is a State of California Employer. As such, the University requires all employees upon date of hire to reside in the State of California. As of January 1, 2022 the CSU Out-of-State Employment Policy prohibits the hiring of employees to perform CSU-related work outside the state of California.

California State University, San Bernardino in not a sponsoring agency for staff or management positions (i.e. H1-B Visas).

Education Code 89521 Requirements: Applicants will be required to disclose whether they have received a final administrative decision or final judicial decision determining that they have committed sexual harassment within the last 7 years only after a determination is made that they meet the minimum qualifications for the position, and before an offer of employment is extended. Applicants who reach the final stages of the application process must also sign a release form that authorizes the release of information by the applicant's current and/or former employers to the CSU concerning any substantiated allegations of misconduct.

Conditions of Employment

Background Check
Satisfactory completion of a background check (including a criminal records check) may be required for student employment purposes. CSU will make a conditional offer of employment, which may be rescinded if the background check reveals disqualifying information, and/or it is discovered that the candidate knowingly withheld or falsified information.  Failure to satisfactorily complete the background check when required may affect the continued employment of a current CSU employee who was conditionally offered the position.

Driver's License Check
Possession of a valid Driver's License may be required.  Employees in this position will be enrolled in the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Government Employer Pull Notice Program which confirms possession of a valid driver's license and reflects driving record.

I-9
CSUSB hires only individuals lawfully authorized to work in the United States. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.  See Form I-9 Acceptable Documents at https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents.

On Campus Commitment

In our commitment to the furthering of knowledge and fulfilling our educational mission, California State University, San Bernardino seeks a campus climate that welcomes, celebrates, and promotes respect for the entire variety of human experience. We welcome people from all backgrounds, and we seek to include knowledge and values from many cultures in the curriculum and extra-curricular life of the campus community. We will create, promote, and maintain activities and programs that further our understanding of individual and group diversity. We will also develop and communicate policies and promote values that discourage intolerance and discrimination.

California State University, San Bernardino is proud to be an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. We recruit, hire, train, and administer all personnel actions without regard to race, ethnicity, religion, color, caste, national origin, ancestry, age, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, genetic information, medical condition, disability, marital status, protected military or veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law. This position adheres to CSU policies against Sex Discrimination, Sexual Harassment, and Sexual Violence, including Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, and Stalking. This requires completion of Sexual Violence Prevention Training within 6 months of assuming employment and on a two-year basis thereafter. (Executive Order 1096) For more information about Diversity & Inclusion at CSUSB, please visit https://www.csusb.edu/human-resources/diversity-inclusion

Closing Statement:

Reasonable Accommodation
We provide reasonable accommodation to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact CSUSB Benefits at benefits@csusb.edu.

Smoking
CSUSB is a smoke and tobacco-free campus.  See policy https://calstate.policystat.com/policy/6591951/latest/.

Clery Act
In compliance with state and federal crime awareness and campus security legislation, including The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Crime Statistics Act, California Education Code section 67380, and the Higher Education Opportunity Act (HEOA), the Cal State San Bernardino Annual Security and Fire Safety Report is available at: https://www.csusb.edu/clery-act.

Advertised: Jun 29 2026 Pacific Daylight Time
Applications close: Jul 28 2026 Pacific Daylight Time

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About California State University

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California State University, Fresno is one of 23 campuses in the California State University System. The University's mission is to boldly educate and empower students for success through our values of Discovery, Diversity and Distinction. The current student population is more than 25,000, including a large percentage of students with diverse and culturally rich backgrounds. The University serves the San Joaquin Valley while maintaining deep involvement with the state, nation, and across the globe.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Long Beach, CA, US