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Prop Master Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Prop Master information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$12

$59

$84

How much do prop master jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for prop master in Chicago, IL is $59.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51.06 and $68.17 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a prop master do?

A Prop Master is responsible for sourcing, creating, and managing all props used in a film, television, or theater production. They collaborate with directors and designers to ensure props align with the overall vision and authenticity of the project. They also oversee budgets, maintain inventory, and ensure props are ready for each scene. Strong organization, creativity, and problem-solving skills are essential for this role.

What are some common challenges a prop master might face during a production?

Prop Masters often juggle multiple responsibilities, including sourcing, building, and maintaining props while adhering to tight timelines and budgets. Unexpected last-minute changes from directors or script adjustments can require rapid problem-solving and adaptability. Additionally, ensuring props are safe, functional, and historically accurate while coordinating with other departments can be demanding. However, working in this collaborative environment lets you showcase your creativity and organizational skills, making the role both challenging and rewarding.

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

To thrive as a Prop Master, you need expertise in set design, props fabrication and management, as well as a background in theater, film, or related fields. Familiarity with inventory management systems, carpentry tools, and safety certifications such as OSHA compliance is often required. Strong organizational skills, creative problem-solving, and the ability to collaborate effectively with directors and other departments set outstanding candidates apart. These skills ensure props are created, maintained, and delivered on schedule, contributing to the smooth operation and visual success of a production.

How much money do prop masters make?

Prop masters typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the scale of the production. Senior prop masters or those working on major projects can earn higher salaries, and the role often requires skills in budgeting, organization, and familiarity with various materials and tools.

How to get a job as a prop master?

To become a prop master, gain experience in set decoration, prop management, or related fields through internships or entry-level positions. Developing skills in organization, attention to detail, and knowledge of tools like CAD or prop-specific software can improve job prospects; a background in theater, film, or design is also beneficial.

What are the most commonly searched types of Prop Master jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Prop Master jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Prop Master jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Prop Master jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Prop Master jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Prop Master jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Prop Master job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $124,424 per year, or $59.8 per hour.

Manager Subcontracts 1

Northrop Grumman

Rolling Meadows, IL • Hybrid

$115K - $173K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 370 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

65th of 545 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: No relocation assistance available CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: No CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the Time Description At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way.

Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history. Northrop Grumman Mission Systems has an opening for a Manager of Subcontracts Administration 1 to join our outstanding team of qualified and diverse individuals in Rolling Meadows, IL.

This exciting role will support Electronic Warfare Systems (EWS) Operating Unit (OU) within the Multidomain Sensing, Targeting and Survivability (MSTS) Division. This position is fast-paced, with high expectations and significantly diverse assignments. This role supports a hybrid onsite work arrangement out of our Rolling Meadows, IL facility.

Main Responsibilities Include: Leadership & Development - Mentor, coach, and assign workloads to drive timely execution of daily requirements and increase employee engagement Program Integration - Build effective relationships with functional teams; translate program needs into clear procurement actions Strategic Procurement - Design and negotiate long term agreements, sourcing partnerships, and continuous improvement initiatives that enhance efficiency and compliance Policy & Process - Contribute to the evolution of agile, efficient, and compliant GSC policies and procedures Compliance - Ensures compliance with all regulatory and public law requirements as well as company (and business) policies and procedures including import/export regulations Other Responsibilities Include but Not Limited To: Supports Subcontracts Specialists through all phases of the Subcontract including requests for proposal, contracting strategy, contract negotiation, contract administration and contract closeout to ensure contract acquisition and fulfillment is in accordance with company policies, legal requirements, and Customer specifications. Coordinates with cross-functional teams on complex issues and risks to develop and present appropriate mitigation plans to Supplier Management Teams and Leadership. Lead and grow a high performing team of up to 10 Subcontracts Administrators and Buyers.

Review/status proposal and active subcontract/purchase order requirements and ensure those meet customer requirements Development of negotiation strategies and plan Review and approval of purchase order compliance #MPR Basic Qualifications: Bachelor's Degree and a minimum of 5 years of experience in Supply Chain and/or related Business Management OR a Master's Degree and a minimum of 3 years of experience in Supply Chain and/or related Business Management OR High School Diploma/Equivalent and a minimum of 9 years of experience in Supply Chain and/or related Business Management 1+ years of team lead and/or management of people US Citizenship Ability to obtain and maintain Secret Level clearance Preferred Qualifications: Must have Aerospace & Defense experience in Subcontracts or Contracts Must have Subcontracts or Contracts experience with FAR / DFARS or Business Law Master's Degree in Business, Global Supply Chain, or Project Management Experience with the SAP procurement system, Supplier Scorecards and performance management, NG Principles and Operating Practices, and metric analysis Internal Northrop Grumman Subcontracts experience Experience conducting presentations to and collaborating with Senior Leadership Experience in negotiating Long Term Pricing Agreements and/or Risk and Opportunity Management Demonstrated experience assuring compliance with company PrOP and government regulations Experience working with multiple contracting formats, including Time & Material, Firm Fixed Price, and Cost Reimbursable, possess knowledge relating to special payment provisions (progress or performance-based payments) Primary Level Salary Range: $115,500.00 - $173,300.00 The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results

Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business. The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date.

However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates. Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO

U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.


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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939