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Props Designer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Airrack Thumbnail Concept Artist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$136K - $157K/yr

Provide complete production direction to photographers and designers: lighting, camera angles, expressions, wardrobe, props, color, and framing * Collaborate with the creative director and editors to ...

Airrack Thumbnail Concept Artist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$136K - $157K/yr

Provide complete production direction to photographers and designers: lighting, camera angles, expressions, wardrobe, props, color, and framing * Collaborate with the creative director and editors to ...

Provide complete production direction to photographers and designers: lighting, camera angles, expressions, wardrobe, props, color, and framing * Collaborate with the creative director and editors to ...

Scenic Painter

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$20 - $35/hr

... props, and large-scale scenic structures. This role requires a strong eye for detail, a deep ... Accurately mix and match colors to designer specifications. * Texturing & Detailing: Add texture ...

Yoga Instructor

Claremont, CA · On-site

$56.65/hr

No Overview The Yoga Instructor is a teaching professional responsible for designing and leading ... Sanitize shared props and equipment after each class and support studio cleanliness standards.

No Overview The Yoga Instructor is a teaching professional responsible for designing and leading ... Sanitize shared props and equipment after each class and support studio cleanliness standards.

Showing results 21-40

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 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.

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.
Infographic showing various Props Designer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution.

$59.16 - $85/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

The Visual Development Artist works closely with the Production Designer, Art Director, and other creative leadership to visually develop and design all elements of the feature film, including sets, locations, props, characters, visual effects, color schemes, and overall style. This is a union-covered position.

Sony Pictures Animation is a pre-production animation studio based in Los Angeles, California, creating both feature animation and animated series with artists from around the world. We pride ourselves on empowering filmmakers to lead the creative process, and allowing the hand of the artist to be truly felt, with the goal of producing bold and innovative visual storytelling.

Responsibilities:
  • Work under the guidance of the Production Designer and Art Director to generate artwork related to sets, locations, props, characters, visual effects, color schemes, and overall style
  • Generate work across all stages of production, including sketches, rough explorations, refined designs, and final paintings
  • Create artwork that informs the early story and visual development process, as well as the production process
  • Collaborate with creative leadership to translate the vision for the film from concept to finished look
  • When requested, build and present innovative ideas to improve visual concepts and designs
  • Ensure all artwork is accurately backed up, organized and stored appropriately
  • Contribute creative solutions, respond effectively to feedback, and iterate on designs throughout production
  • Proactively communicate questions, issues, or production concerns to supervisors and production staff
  • Meet production schedules and deadlines while maintaining a high level of artistic quality and consistency
Qualifications:
  • Must exhibit proficiency in drawing (including human and animal anatomy), design, perspective, composition, painting, lighting and color theory 
  • Must be comfortable working in a variety of styles - from "cartoony" to highly realistic.  
  • Areas of expertise to include one or more of the following: set/location/props design; character/costume design; special effects design; and/or color styling
  • A solid understanding of 2D to 3D translations and hands-on use of 2D or 3D tools in your design process is helpful
  • Able to solve problems creatively
  • Manage time efficiently
  • The ability to work creatively in a fast-paced production environment under pressure
  • Self-motivated, good communication skills, and an excellent teammate with a phenomenal outlook
  • Working knowledge of software and hardware, including Photoshop and Cintiq

The anticipated base salary for this position is $59.16/hour to $85.00/hour. This role qualifies for benefits pursuant to the collective bargaining agreement.The actual salary offered will depend on a variety of factors.

To apply, please include a resume and a link to your portfolio. Please make sure to include any passwords to your work in your cover letter and/or in your resume.

Sony Pictures Animation is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other protected characteristics.