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Scenic Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Arena Stage

Scenic Artist

Washington, DC · On-site

$23 - $24.75/hr

WHAT YOU'LL DO The Scenic Artist acts as the primary scenic artist for all Arena Stage productions and events. MINIMUM/CORE REQUIREMENTS: * 2-4 years experience scenic art, mural work, fine art ...

Arena Stage

Scenic Artist

Washington, DC · On-site

$23 - $24.75/hr

WHAT YOU'LL DO The Scenic Artist acts as the primary scenic artist for all Arena Stage productions and events. MINIMUM/CORE REQUIREMENTS: * 2-4 years experience scenic art, mural work, fine art ...

New York University

Scenic Artist

New York, NY

$38.10/hr

Perform all aspects of traditional and contemporary scenic art for a multi-production theatrical and dance season. Assist graduate student designers to determine best materials and methods to execute ...

New York University

Scenic Artist

New York, NY · On-site

$38.10/hr

Position Summary Perform all aspects of traditional and contemporary scenic art for a multi-production theatrical and dance season. Assist graduate student designers to determine best materials and ...

CBN

Scenic Designer

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

We're looking for a talented Scenic Designer who will design graphics, sets and props that meet the aesthetic and functional requirements given for any TV film, display, or corporate event ...

CBN

Scenic Designer

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

We're looking for a talented Scenic Designer who will design graphics, sets and props that meet the aesthetic and functional requirements given for any TV film, display, or corporate event ...

Mills James Inc

Scenic Foreman

Hilliard, OH · On-site

$26 - $32.50/hr

The Scenic Foreman also maintains the inventory of materials, hardware, and scenic storage. Requirements * Bachelor's degree from a fouryear college or university; and six years' related experience ...

Skillforce

Scenic Painter

Orlando, FL · Remote

$20 - $26/hr

Painter/Scenic Artist is responsible for preparing, painting, and finishing scenic and fabricated elements using a variety of materials and techniques. This position encompasses various experience ...

Object Construction, Inc.

Scenic Painter

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$20 - $35/hr

Scenic Painter Location: Los Angeles, CA, United States Position Overview: Object Construction is seeking a skilled Scenic Painter to join our dynamic team. The Scenic Painter will be responsible for ...

InProduction

Scenic Installer

Dallas, TX

InProduction is the leading provider of temporary seating, staging, structures, and scenic production for the U.S. live events industry. The Company is a valuable partner to event organizers ...

InProduction

Scenic Installer

Dallas, TX · On-site

Scenic Installers will be assigned to all small-to-medium-scale shows and jobs to manage onsite installation. Scenic installers will all be assigned to large scale shows and jobs under the ...

JCPRD

Scenic Carpenter

Shawnee, KS

$20.25 - $27.50/hr

The Scenic Carpenters are responsible for the construction and fabrication of all Theatre in the Park scenic elements and are expected to be able to work both independently and with other team ...

InProduction

Scenic Installer

Dallas, TX · On-site

Scenic Installers will be assigned to all small-to-medium-scale shows and jobs to manage onsite installation. Scenic installers will all be assigned to large scale shows and jobs under the ...

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How much do scenic jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for scenic in the United States is $58,549.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,000.00 and $61,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Scenic do in the context of theater or film production?

A Scenic, also known as a Scenic Artist or Set Painter, is responsible for painting, texturing, and finishing the surfaces of sets and scenery in theater, film, television, or live events. They use a variety of artistic techniques to create realistic or stylized environments based on the designer's vision. Scenics work closely with set designers and construction teams to ensure that the visual elements of a production look authentic and meet the creative requirements. Their work may include painting backdrops, aging materials, creating faux finishes, and applying murals or graphics to set pieces.

What is the difference between Scenic vs Lighting Designer?

AspectScenicLighting Designer
Primary FocusDesigning physical scenery and set piecesDesigning lighting effects and illumination
CredentialsSet design, theater arts, or related fieldsLighting design, theater arts, or related certifications
Work EnvironmentTheater, film, television, live eventsTheater, concerts, live events, film
Tools & SkillsSketching, model making, set constructionLighting software, electrical knowledge, color theory

While both Scenic and Lighting Designer roles are essential in theater and live productions, Scenic Designers focus on creating the physical environment, whereas Lighting Designers specialize in lighting effects to enhance mood and visibility. Both roles require collaboration and creative skills but differ in their technical expertise and focus areas.

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

To excel as a Scenic Artist, you need strong artistic skills including painting, texturing, and color theory, often supported by a background in fine arts or theater production. Familiarity with industry-standard tools such as airbrushes, scenic paints, and digital design software is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate effectively with production teams are crucial soft skills. These competencies ensure that sets and backdrops meet design specifications, contribute to storytelling, and enhance the overall visual impact of a production.

What are some typical challenges a Scenic faces when working on live theater productions?

Scenics working on live theater productions often encounter tight deadlines and last-minute design changes, requiring flexibility and strong problem-solving skills. Collaboration with set designers, carpenters, and lighting teams is key, as adjustments may need to be made quickly to accommodate technical or artistic shifts. Additionally, Scenics must ensure that all painted and constructed elements are durable enough to withstand multiple performances while maintaining visual quality under various lighting conditions.
More about Scenic jobs
What cities are hiring for Scenic jobs? Cities with the most Scenic job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Scenic jobs? The most popular types of Scenic jobs are:
What states have the most Scenic jobs? States with the most job openings for Scenic jobs include:
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Scenic jobs near you
Infographic showing various Scenic job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Locum Tenens, 2% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,549 per year, or $28.1 per hour.
Scenic Artist

Scenic Artist

Arena Stage

Washington, DC • On-site

$23 - $24.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

WHO WE ARE

Arena Stage is the voice of American theater resident in our nation's capital. Focused on American artists, our productions are innovative and representative of stories from across the country. We nurture new plays and reimagine classics. We celebrate our democracy and diversity through a multitude of voices in our productions and community engagement programs to inspire people to action.

WHAT WE VALUE

A work culture that values experimentation and collaboration.

Excellence in all aspects of our endeavor.

Diversity, Equity, Accessibility and Inclusion throughout the Organization and within our audience and the community.

Community Service through education and public engagement.

Lead effective partnerships and collaboration to serve artists and arts professionals.

WHAT YOU'LL DO

The Scenic Artist acts as the primary scenic artist for all Arena Stage productions and events.

MINIMUM/CORE REQUIREMENTS:

  • 2-4 years experience scenic art, mural work, fine art, theatrical scenery, related artistic
    fields or educational equivalent
  • 1 year experience in a leadership role

SKILLS REQUIRED:

  • Experience in faux finishing (wood grain, marble, stone, etc.), textures, foam
    carving/sculpting, drawing, drop layout work, color matching and mixing, aging &
    distressing techniques
  • Ability to use HVLP, airless, airbrush, and pump sprayers.
  • Knowledge of current safety standards, MSDS's and OSHA practices
  • Ability to work quickly and efficiently while maintaining quality
  • Attention to detail in all aspects
  • Ability to read draftings and renderings/elevations
  • Ability to adapt to frequently changing circumstances, work collaboratively with other
    employees and guest artists, and maintain a positive attitude in challenging situations

KEY FUNCTIONS/RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO:

  • Execute scenic treatments on all scenery pieces and specialty prop pieces, as directed by the Scenic Charge Artist
  • In conjunction with the Scenic Charge Artist, lead a team of over hire scenic artists in the execution of scenic treatments
  • In conjunction with the Scenic Charge Artist, maintain paint shop tools, inventories, and cleanliness
  • In conjunction with the Scenic Charge Artist, maintain all three theatre spaces for internal and external events
  • Create touch up kits for Production Carpenters to maintain the finish of each show throughout the run
  • May be required to work late nights and holidays depending on show needs

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Ability to climb and work from lifts/ladders with or without reasonable accommodation
  • Frequently required to use repetitive hand motions and to reach and bend
    Ability to stand for 8-10 hours per day
  • Capable of wearing a respirator

The Washington Drama Society, Inc., Arena Stage does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), gender, gender expression, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status, in any of its activities or operations.

If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you may request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to access job openings or apply for a job on this site as a result of your disability. You can request reasonable accommodations by contacting Human Resources at hr@arenastage.org.


Offers of employment at Arena Stage are contingent upon a satisfactory criminal background check and/or professional reference check as allowed by employment law in the District of Columbia.


Job Posted by ApplicantPro