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Props Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

The Head of Movie Props (Burbank) at Goldin will lead all sales and operations for the Movie Props ... The leader will manage a Consignment Director and Account Manager focused on consignments, as well ...

$17.75/hr

Resident Stage Manager LOCATION: La Jolla, CA on the beautiful UC San Diego Campus STATUS: Non ... Help run the rehearsal room (tracking props, managing schedules, taking line notes, incorporating ...

Direct photo and video shoots on set - lighting, composition, styling, props * Manage shoot logistics: call sheets, scheduling, file prep, vendor coordination * Guide post-production: selects ...

Pack and transport all props, wardrobe, and supplies for local and remote productions, keeping an ... research, managing budget reconciliation and receipts, and adding confirmed travel to the ...

Junior Producer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$70 - $80K/hr

Pack and transport all props, wardrobe, and supplies for local and remote productions, keeping an ... research, managing budget reconciliation and receipts, and adding confirmed travel to the ...

Junior Producer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$70 - $80K/hr

Pack and transport all props, wardrobe, and supplies for local and remote productions, keeping an ... research, managing budget reconciliation and receipts, and adding confirmed travel to the ...

Maintain inventory of props and equipment; report damage or replacement needs * Troubleshoot on ... Experience with inventory management or logistics * Basic photography skills for documenting site ...

Maintain inventory of props and equipment; report damage or replacement needs * Troubleshoot on ... Experience with inventory management or logistics * Basic photography skills for documenting site ...

... Manager, including all tables, chairs, audio visual needs, staging, dance floor, special props, skirting and dressing of all buffet tables and special materials tables. * Break down all functions ...

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Showing results 1-20

Props Manager information

See California salary details

$57.7K

$77.6K

$98.2K

How much do props manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for props manager in California is $77,562.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,000.00 and $80,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a props manager do?

A props manager is responsible for acquiring, organizing, and maintaining all props used in a production, ensuring they are available and in good condition for scenes. They collaborate with directors and set designers to select appropriate items and often oversee the setup and safety of props during filming or performances. Strong organizational skills and knowledge of safety standards are essential in this role.

What kind of jobs in media bring in $150,000 a year?

In media, high-paying roles such as senior producers, executive producers, or media directors can earn $150,000 or more annually. These positions typically require extensive experience, strong leadership skills, and often involve managing large teams or budgets. Technical roles like media executives or specialized project managers may also reach this salary level with significant industry experience.

How does a Props Manager typically collaborate with other departments during a production?

A Props Manager works closely with directors, set designers, costume teams, and stage management to ensure all props align with the artistic vision and logistical needs of the production. Coordination often involves attending production meetings, participating in rehearsals to understand prop usage, and communicating frequently with other departments to address changes or special requirements. This collaborative approach helps maintain continuity, ensures safety, and supports efficient problem-solving during both the rehearsal and performance phases.

How much does a prop master get paid?

A prop master typically earns 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 knowledge of set design, organization, and budgeting.

What jobs make around $100,000 a year?

Props managers in the entertainment industry can earn around $100,000 annually, especially with experience and working on large productions. Other roles such as film or television production managers, set designers, and certain specialized technical positions may also reach or exceed this salary level, often requiring relevant skills, certifications, and extensive experience. Salaries vary based on location, industry, and individual expertise.

What are Props Managers and what do they do?

Props Managers are responsible for sourcing, organizing, and maintaining all physical objects (props) used on stage or set in theater, film, or television productions. They collaborate closely with directors, designers, and crew to ensure that each prop aligns with the artistic vision and is available when needed for rehearsals and performances. In addition to acquiring props, Props Managers may also be involved in creating custom items, managing budgets, and overseeing the safe handling and storage of all props. Their role is essential in helping bring authenticity and detail to a production.

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

To thrive as a Props Manager, you need a solid understanding of stagecraft, prop construction, organization, and inventory management, often supported by experience in theater production or a related field. Familiarity with tools like CAD software, inventory databases, and hand/power tools is common, and OSHA safety certification may be required. Strong problem-solving, creativity, time management, and communication skills help manage deadlines and collaborate with directors and designers. These abilities are crucial for ensuring productions run smoothly, props are safe and authentic, and creative visions are realized on stage.

What is the difference between Props Manager vs Set Designer?

AspectProps ManagerSet Designer
CredentialsExperience in prop management, relevant certifications in production designDegree in set design, architecture, or related field
Work EnvironmentOn set, handling props during filming or performanceDesigning and creating sets, often in studios or workshops
Industry UsageFilm, TV, theater productionsFilm, TV, theater, stage productions

The Props Manager focuses on acquiring, organizing, and maintaining props used during a production, ensuring they are available and in good condition. The Set Designer is responsible for creating the visual concept of the environment, designing and building the physical sets. While both roles collaborate closely, the Props Manager handles the objects within the set, whereas the Set Designer creates the overall visual backdrop.

What are the most commonly searched types of Props jobs in California? The most popular types of Props jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Props Manager jobs in California? For Props Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Props Manager jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Props Manager jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Props Manager jobs? Cities in California with the most Props Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Props Manager job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,562 per year, or $37.3 per hour.
Props Captain, Set Decor

Props Captain, Set Decor

Universal Studios Hollywood

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$28.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Universal Studios Hollywood rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 78 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 58 rated theme parks


Job description

Props Captain, Set Decor
Job no: HN26-PRCSD
Work type: Full Time
Location: Los Angeles
Categories: Entertainment
JOB DUTIES
Creative Collaboration:
  • Partner with Production Designers, creative teams, and Props & Placemaking leadership to support the
    development and execution of prop and set decoration elements for entertainment productions, seasonal events, and placemaking initiatives.
  • Participate in design reviews and production planning meetings to ensure décor elements align with creative direction, intellectual property guidelines, operational requirements, and project timelines.
  • Interpret scaled drawings, sketches, models, and visual references to translate creative concepts into practical prop and set decoration solutions.

Set Decoration & Sourcing:
  • Research, source, and procure furniture, hand props, décor, textiles, and specialty items from prop houses, vendors, rental facilities, antique sources, and custom fabricators.
  • Evaluate existing scenic and set decoration inventory within Entertainment warehouse and storage locations to identify opportunities to repurpose, redress, or modify existing assets before sourcing new items.
  • Apply strong knowledge of historical and contemporary design styles when selecting and arranging décor elements to support environmental storytelling.
  • Oversee the collection, preparation, and arrangement of set decoration items to ensure cohesive and visually compelling environments.
  • Recommend sourcing strategies that balance creative intent, durability, budget constraints, and project
    timelines.
  • Maintain awareness of available warehouse inventory and legacy scenic assets to identify opportunities for reuse across projects.

Vendor & Partner Coordination:
  • Develop and maintain productive working relationships with prop houses, rental vendors, specialty fabricators, and suppliers.
  • Coordinate quotes, purchases, rentals, and fabrication requests while ensuring alignment with project budgets and schedules.
  • Collaborate with internal partners across Entertainment, Production, Technical Services, and other departments to support successful integration of prop and décor elements.

Team Leadership:
  • Provide guidance and direction to prop artisans in the sourcing, preparation, fabrication, and installation of props and set decoration elements.
  • Mentor team members and support skill development while fostering a collaborative and solution-oriented work environment.
  • Help prioritize work assignments and coordinate efforts across multiple projects to ensure deadlines and quality standards are met.
  • Serve as a subject matter resource for set decoration practices, materials, and styling approaches.

Fabrication Oversight & Prop Engineering:
  • Work with prop artisans to determine appropriate fabrication methods, materials, and construction approaches for custom props and décor elements.
  • Provide guidance and creative direction during the fabrication process to ensure elements meet design intent, durability standards, and production timelines.
  • Translate conceptual ideas and verbal descriptions into practical prop solutions that can be executed by the fabrication team.
  • Assist with fabrication or modification of prop elements when needed to support project deadlines or
    specialized requirements.

Installation & On-Site Art Direction:
  • Support or lead the installation and dressing of scenic environments on site, ensuring décor elements are placed according to design intent and meet safety and quality standards.
  • Coordinate with designers and project leads to make adjustments during installation as needed to maintain visual integrity and storytelling.
  • Assist with strike, storage, and redeployment of set decoration elements for future use when applicable.

Operations & Inventory:
  • Assist in estimating materials, décor elements, and fabrication resources required for assigned projects.
  • Support the organization and documentation of set dressing inventory, including tracking locations, condition, and availability of stock items using inventory management systems such as RT Pro (Rental Tracker) or similar asset tracking platforms.
  • Maintain familiarity with warehouse inventory and scenic assets to support efficient reuse and redeployment of décor elements across projects.
  • Maintain clean, organized, and safe workspaces in accordance with department safety standards and best practices.
  • Participate in quality control efforts to ensure all elements meet design expectations and operational
    requirements.
  • Perform other duties as assigned to support the goals of the Entertainment Department.

QUALIFICATIONS/REQUIREMENTS
  • Minimum of five years of professional experience in theatrical props, set decoration, scenic fabrication, or related production environments such as themed entertainment, live events, theater, television, or film.
  • Demonstrated experience sourcing, selecting, and curating furniture, hand props, décor, textiles, and set dressing elements to support environmental storytelling.
  • Working knowledge of scenic fabrication techniques and materials, including wood, metal, plastics, textiles, and decorative finishes, with the ability to guide fabrication approaches in collaboration with prop artisans.
  • Experience working with prop houses, rental vendors, specialty fabricators, and other suppliers to source décor and prop elements within budget and production timelines.
  • Strong ability to read and interpret design drawings, sketches, models, and visual references to translate creative concepts into practical prop and set decoration solutions.
  • Demonstrated organizational and project coordination skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while adapting to shifting priorities and deadlines.
  • Experience leading or guiding small teams within a production environment and collaborating effectively with designers, technicians, and cross-department partners.
  • Working knowledge of shop tools and fabrication environments sufficient to support fabrication planning and troubleshooting when needed.
  • Proficiency with standard office and production software including Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook,Teams), Adobe Acrobat, and internet research tools.
  • Working knowledge of workplace safety standards and best practices within a fabrication or production environment.
  • Ability to work flexible schedules including evenings, weekends, and holidays as required by production needs.

DESIRED CHARACTERISTICS
  • Bachelor's degree in Theatre, Scenic Design, Production Design, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
  • Strong aesthetic judgment and demonstrated understanding of historical and contemporary design styles relevant to themed environments.
  • Experience working in themed entertainment, immersive attractions, live entertainment, or theme park
    environments.
  • Familiarity with warehouse inventory systems and asset management platforms such as RT Pro (Rental Tracker) or similar systems.
  • Proven leadership abilities with a focus on mentorship, collaboration, and clear communication.
  • Creative problem-solver capable of balancing artistic intent with practical production constraints such as budget, durability, and operational needs.
  • Ability to build productive relationships with vendors, creative partners, and cross-functional production teams.
  • High level of attention to detail and commitment to delivering high-quality scenic environments that support immersive storytelling.

Pay:
  • $28.50 per hour, plus a $3.00 per hour overscale.

Additional Information:
NBCUniversal's policy is to provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, gender identity or expression, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, veteran status, membership in the uniformed services, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable law. NBCUniversal will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with relevant legal requirements, including the City of Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative For Hiring Ordinance, where applicable.
Advertised: 09 Jul 2026 Pacific Daylight Time
Applications close:
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