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Props Designer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Production Designer Location: Hybrid (Burbank/North Hollywood, CA) What You'll Be Doing: The ... Props * Source, organize, and track props across productions, including purchase, rental, and ...

Production Designer Location: Hybrid (Burbank/North Hollywood, CA) What You'll Be Doing: The ... Props * Source, organize, and track props across productions, including purchase, rental, and ...

Reference Designer About TrueShort TrueShort is one of the fastest-growing streaming apps in the ... Design character reference sheets, props, environments, and worldbuilding assets * Develop cohesive ...

Junior Set Designer

Los Angeles, CA Β· On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

Check props and set pieces in and out for productions, ensuring all items are properly returned ... with Set Designers, Construction, Stylists, Directors, and Production. * Contribute to a ...

As a Set Designer , you'll transform creative concepts into visually compelling environments that ... Build & Style Production Sets Source furniture, props, dΓ©cor, and materials that bring creative ...

This covers set construction, set dressing, props, paint, rentals, and labor. The production designer is accountable for every dollar in the art department budget. * Hiring the art department: Bring ...

Environmental Designer

Los Angeles, CA Β· On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

... Designer, who will be responsible for the art direction, concepting and design of branded spaces ... Manage the selection of props, furniture, and decor and maintain organized documentation for all ...

Show Set Designer

Los Angeles, CA Β· On-site

$70 - $80/hr

... props, lighting, audio equipment, and hardware. * Develop in-field solutions and follow-up ... Experience designing for and developing show sets for themed entertainment projects * Experience in ...

Show Set Designer

Los Angeles, CA Β· On-site

$70 - $80/hr

... props, lighting, audio equipment, and hardware. * Develop in-field solutions and follow-up ... Experience designing for and developing show sets for themed entertainment projects * Experience in ...

Show Set Designer

Los Angeles, CA Β· On-site

$70 - $80/hr

... props, lighting, audio equipment, and hardware. * Develop in-field solutions and follow-up ... Experience designing for and developing show sets for themed entertainment projects * Experience in ...

Show Set Designer

Los Angeles, CA Β· On-site

$70 - $80/hr

... props, lighting, audio equipment, and hardware. * Develop in-field solutions and follow-up ... Experience designing for and developing show sets for themed entertainment projects * Experience in ...

... props, lighting, audio equipment, and hardware. * Develop in-field solutions and follow-up ... Experience designing for and developing show sets for themed entertainment projects * Experience in ...

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Props Designer information

What does a props designer do?

A props designer is responsible for designing, creating, and sourcing all the physical objects that actors use on stage or in film, known as 'props.' They work closely with the director and set designer to ensure that each prop fits the production’s visual style and meets the needs of the script. Their job includes researching historical periods, materials, and techniques to create authentic and functional props. They may also oversee the maintenance and organization of props during rehearsals and performances.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a props designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Props Designer, you need a solid understanding of design principles, fabrication techniques, and artistic creativity, often backed by a degree in theater design, fine arts, or a related field. Familiarity with tools such as CAD software, 3D modeling programs, and various workshop equipment is typically required. Strong communication, problem-solving, and time management skills help you collaborate effectively with directors and production teams under tight deadlines. These abilities are crucial to creating visually compelling, functional props that enhance storytelling and meet production needs.

What are some common challenges props designers face when working on fast-paced productions?

Props Designers often encounter tight deadlines and last-minute changes, especially in fast-paced film, television, or theater environments. Balancing creative vision with budget constraints and material availability can be demanding. Additionally, effective communication with directors, set designers, and production teams is crucial to ensure all props meet safety standards and fit seamlessly into the overall design. Flexibility and strong organizational skills help Props Designers navigate these challenges and deliver high-quality results on time.

What is the difference between Props Designer vs Set Designer?

Props DesignerSet Designer
Focuses on designing, sourcing, and creating props used on stage or screenDesigns and constructs the physical environment or scenery for a production
Requires knowledge of prop construction, materials, and safetyRequires understanding of set construction, space planning, and scenic design
Works closely with directors, costume designers, and prop mastersCollaborates with directors, lighting designers, and production designers

Props Designers primarily handle individual objects used in a production, while Set Designers create the overall environment or scenery. Both roles require knowledge of design principles and industry standards, but Props Designers focus on smaller, detailed items, whereas Set Designers work on larger structural elements. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in production design.

How do you become a props designer?

To become a props designer, individuals typically need a background in art, design, or theater production, often gained through a relevant degree or training program. Building a portfolio of work, gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions, and developing skills in materials, construction, and design software are essential steps in entering the field.

What job categories do people searching Props Designer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Props Designer jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Props Designer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution.

Props & Decor Supervisor - THE POLAR EXPRESS Train Ride Perris, CA

Perris, CA β€’ On-site

$26/hr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Job Title:Β Props & DΓ©cor Supervisor - THE POLAR EXPRESSβ„’ Train Ride

Division/Department:Β Rail Events Production/Run Crew

Reports To:Β Production Management

Type of position:Β Non-Exempt/Hourly

Employee Classification:Β Seasonal

Compensation:Β $00.00/hourly

Job Summary:Β The Props & DΓ©cor Supervisor works with the Design team, Production Staff and on-site management during rehearsals, load in, performances and load out. They will be responsible for the load-in, inventory, care, pre-setting, and maintenance of all props and scenic dΓ©cor associated with the production during the entire run of the event. They work under the supervision of the Production Props Supervisor, Production Managers, and Stage Managers. Because of the nature of the live event, they may be required to assist in any event related items as required. They advise the Stage Manager and Local Production Manager of any technical or artistic needs that may arise to keep the integrity of the props and decor designs.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Organizing and maintaining the props & scenic decor
  • Constructing/altering/repairing props and dΓ©cor as necessary to ensure successful realization of the show
  • Overseeing the pre-setting and usage of props for each performance
  • Assist the Wardrobe Supervisor as necessary with costume items
  • Responsible for seeing that the prop and decor designs are maintained with artistic integrity throughout the event
  • Assist with setting and removal of food products
  • Work with the production team to install and prep backstage spaces
  • Work with the production team during technical rehearsals to incorporate last-minute changes
  • Work with the production staff during load out to see that event space is returned to the railroad appropriately
  • Become familiar with company policies regarding safety
  • Works with the entire event team to maintain a positive, enjoyable, and rewarding environment for all staff and passengers
  • Other duties as assigned

Education, Skill & Work Experience Requirements:

  • Experience in props management and repair
  • Possess good DIY, craft, sewing and repair skills
  • Experience as a theatrical technician
  • Strong organizational, time management, and communication skills
  • Ability to work alongside the production staff as a team member in an ever-changing environment
  • Ability to work independently with self-motivation and attention to detail as well as excellent organizational skills
  • Demonstrated ability to anticipate, recognize and solve practical problems and resolve issues
  • Ability to communicate effectively orally and in written form
  • Commitment to working with shared leadership and in cross-functional teams

Work Environment:

  • Majority of time spent in an event setting
  • Varied schedules requiring evenings, weekends, overtime, and holidays
  • Able to stand for prolonged periods of time
  • Varying temperatures and weather conditions; both indoor and outdoor
  • Able to stand and walk on uneven or unsteady surfaces aboard a moving train
  • Time spent in and around active railroad yard(s)

What’s in it for you?

  • Join the cast and crew of a one-of-a-kind performance on a moving trainΒ 
  • Serve others and create a world of make believe and magic
  • Competitive pay and a chance to build upon your theater network and make lifelong connections
  • Enrich and positively impact the experience for all – big and small
  • Be part of an inclusive team in a supportive environment with high expectations for self and your fellow teammates
  • Catered meals for 5-show days
  • Comp tickets for your friends and family
  • Potential for end of season bonusΒ 


Working on THE POLAR EXPRESSβ„’ Train Ride is unlike anything you will ever do.Β  This immersive experience is entirely unique to Rail Events Productions.Β  The challenge of producing a full-length production on a moving train is one of the most rewarding experiences as an artist or technician.Β  With a total cast, crew and front-of-house employees of 60-75 people onsite every day and the possibility of over 2,000 guests, our days can be chaotic. With such a fast-paced environment, the team at Rail Events Productions takes care to properly support and teach everyone the best ways to accomplish their jobs.Β  We strive to build a space where employees are safe and encouraged to grow throughout their time with the company.Β 

Rail Events Productions, an American Heritage Railways subsidiary, is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Organizing and maintaining the props & scenic decor
  • Constructing/altering/repairing props and dΓ©cor as necessary to ensure successful realization of the show
  • Overseeing the pre-setting and usage of props for each performance
  • Assist the Wardrobe Supervisor as necessary with costume items
  • Responsible for seeing that the prop and decor designs are maintained with artistic integrity throughout the event
  • Assist with setting and removal of food products
  • Work with the production team to install and prep backstage spaces
  • Work with the production team during technical rehearsals to incorporate last minute changes
  • Work with the production staff during load out to see that event space is returned to the railroad appropriately
  • Become familiar with company policies regarding safety
  • Works with the entire event team to maintain a positive, enjoyable, and rewarding environment for all staff and passengers
  • Other duties as assigned