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Scenic Jobs (NOW HIRING)

EXPLORING LLC

Scenic Artist

Atlanta, GA · On-site

From custom scenic elements to experiential installations, Scenic Artists bring the final creative layer to the work we produce. This role is ideal for individuals who enjoy hands-on artistic work ...

EXPLORING LLC

Scenic Artist

Atlanta, GA · On-site

From custom scenic elements to experiential installations, Scenic Artists bring the final creative layer to the work we produce. This role is ideal for individuals who enjoy hands-on artistic work ...

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 ...

Apply Early

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 · 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 ...

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 ...

CBN

Scenic Designer

Virginia Beach, VA

$43K - $53K/yr

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

$43K - $53K/yr

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 ...

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 ...

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All JobsScenic Jobs

Scenic information

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$49.5K

$58.5K

$68.5K

How much do scenic jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 30, 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:
What job categories do people searching Scenic jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Scenic jobs are:
Scenic jobs near you
Infographic showing various Scenic job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 2% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 6% 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

EXPLORING LLC

Atlanta, GA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Day in the Life at ID3Scenic Artist – Custom Fabrication & Experiential Environments

At ID3, Scenic Artists are the team members who transform raw builds into finished environments that look immersive, detailed, and visually compelling. From custom scenic elements to experiential installations, Scenic Artists bring the final creative layer to the work we produce.

This role is ideal for individuals who enjoy hands-on artistic work, texture creation, specialty finishes, and collaborating with fabrication teams to bring creative concepts to life.

Understanding the Creative Vision

The day often begins by reviewing design renderings, finish samples, and project requirements.

Scenic Artists typically start by:

✔ Reviewing project drawings and scenic finish specifications

✔ Meeting with project managers, designers, and fabrication teams to understand the visual intent

✔ Preparing materials, paints, stains, and specialty finishes

✔ Preparing surfaces including wood, foam, plastics, and metal structures

Understanding the intended look and feel ensures every scenic element aligns with the original design concept.

Creating Scenic Finishes

Once surfaces are ready, Scenic Artists begin the work that brings environments to life.

Daily tasks may include:

✔ Applying paint layers, textures, and specialty coatings

✔ Creating faux finishes, aging techniques, and custom textures

✔ Matching color samples and finish requirements

✔ Working with scenic elements built by carpentry and fabrication teams

This stage requires creativity, precision, and a strong understanding of materials.

Detail Work and Collaboration

Much of scenic work requires careful attention to detail.

During the day Scenic Artists may:

✔ Add finishing layers that create depth, realism, and visual impact

✔ Adjust finishes based on design feedback or client revisions

✔ Collaborate with carpenters, metal fabricators, and project managers to ensure the final look meets expectations

This is where the scenic work truly brings the project to life.

Preparing for Installation

Before wrapping up the day, Scenic Artists ensure that finished pieces are:

✔ Fully completed and protected

✔ Ready for installation or transport

✔ Aligned with design samples and project standards

Their work ensures that when the project arrives on site, it delivers the visual experience the client envisioned.

What Makes a Great Scenic Artist at ID3

Successful candidates often have backgrounds in:

✔ Scenic painting or theatrical environments

✔ Theme parks, experiential builds, or exhibit fabrication

✔ Custom murals or decorative finishes

✔ Scenic construction and fabrication shops

Strong candidates also bring:

✔ Experience with faux finishing techniques and specialty coatings

✔ Excellent color matching and artistic detail

✔ Ability to work with a variety of materials

✔ Comfort working in a fast-paced fabrication environment

Build Creative Environments with ID3

At ID3, our team collaborates across design, fabrication, scenic, and installation departments to build immersive environments and custom experiential projects.

If you enjoy transforming structures into visually compelling environments and want to work on projects that challenge your creativity, we encourage you to apply.

Apply