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Prop Designer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Quality Engineer

Elkridge, MD · On-site

$79K - $119K/yr

Implements and enforces adherence to PrOP, CADSTAR drawings, Quality Assurance Directives (QAD ... Designs and analyzes inspection and testing processes, mechanisms and equipment; conducting quality ...

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Prop Designer information

See Washington salary details

$40.2K

$94.2K

$124.6K

How much do prop designer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for prop designer in Washington is $94,173.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,700.00 and $123,500.00 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 Washington? The most popular types of Prop Designer jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Prop Designer jobs in Washington? For Prop Designer jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Prop Designer jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Prop Designer jobs in Washington are:
Prop Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Prop Designer job openings in Washington 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 $94,173 per year, or $45.3 per hour.

UAV/Advanced Mechanical Engineer

General Dynamics Mission Systems, Inc

Manassas, VA • On-site

$124K - $137K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 27 days ago

General Dynamics Mission Systems rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

129th of 246 rated software companies

Job description

Basic Qualifications
Requires a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, or a related Science, Engineering, Technology or Mathematics field. Also requires 5+ years of job-related experience, or a Master's degree plus 3 years of job-related experience.
CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS:: Department of Defense Secret security clearance is obtainable within a reasonable amount of time after hire. Applicants selected will be subject to a U.S. Government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. Due to the nature of work performed within our facilities, U.S. citizenship is required.
Responsibilities for this Position
JOB DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Work with other engineers to design, build, and test the UAV.
  • Assemble UAVs to prepare for flight testing
  • Perform engine bench testing to ensure engines are ready for flight testing
  • Interface with the Lead Designer and Senior Technical Engineer on a daily basis.
  • Perform flight ready verification of the UAV.

What you'll experience:
  • Rapid research, design, and prototyping changes
  • UAV flight experience
  • Move from R&D to production ready design

What you bring to the table:
  • Team player
  • Mechanical Engineering experience
  • Experience designing UAVs or small, lightweight aircraft.
  • Hands-on experience assembling prototype systems
  • Design expertise in Creo Design Advanced
  • Proficiency with drawings per ASME Y14.100.
  • Proficiency with GD&T per ASME Y14.5.
  • MS Office products experience
  • Atlassian Suite experience

What sets you apart:
  • Experienced with Creo Parametric
  • Experienced with AoA, LOB, prop pitch, thermodynamics, etc
  • Experienced with small engine aircraft
  • Experienced with Ardupilot or MAVLink
  • Experience with DFM and DFA for machined, injection molded, and sheet metal parts.
  • Experienced with analysis and design of UAVs.
  • Able to lead ME and EE at all levels of experience
  • The innate ability to build your design in a lab and successfully complete a flight.

Our Commitment to You:
  • An exciting career path with opportunities for continuous learning and development.
  • Research oriented work, alongside award winning teams developing practical solutions for our nation's security
  • Flexible schedules with every other Friday off work, if desired (9/80 schedule)
  • Competitive benefits, including 401k matching, flex time off, paid parental leave, healthcare benefits, health & wellness programs, employee resource and social groups, and more
  • See more at gdmissionsystems.com/careers/why-work-for-us/benefits

Workplace Options:
This position is on-site. While on-site, you will be part of the Manassas, VA facility.
#CJ2
Salary Note
This estimate represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors (geographic location, etc.). Actual pay may vary. This job posting will remain open until the position is filled.
Combined Salary Range
USD $124,216.00 - USD $137,803.00 /Yr.
Company Overview
General Dynamics Mission Systems (GDMS) engineers a diverse portfolio of high technology solutions, products and services that enable customers to successfully execute missions across all domains of operation. With a global team of 12,000+ top professionals, we partner with the best in industry to expand the bounds of innovation in the defense and scientific arenas. Given the nature of our work and who we are, we value trust, honesty, alignment and transparency. We offer highly competitive benefits and pride ourselves in being a great place to work with a shared sense of purpose. You will also enjoy a flexible work environment where contributions are recognized and rewarded. If who we are and what we do resonates with you, we invite you to join our high-performance team!
Equal Opportunity Employer / Individuals with Disabilities / Protected Veterans

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