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Scenic Designer Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Faculty Tenure Track-9 Mo

Kent, OH · On-site

$70 - $100/hr

TEACH COURSES RELATED TO SCENIC DESIGN AT THE UNDERGRADUATE AND GRADUATE LEVELS; DESIGN SCENERY FOR THE SCHOOL SEASON AND/OR MENTOR AND SUPERVISE STUDENT DESIGNERS; DEVELOP AND MAINTAIN A RESEARCH ...

Summary The Corporate Events Set Designer is responsible for conceptualizing, designing, and developing scenic environments, trade show displays, and event sets that support both new business ...

Summary The Corporate Events Set Designer is responsible for conceptualizing, designing, and developing scenic environments, trade show displays, and event sets that support both new business ...

Summary The Corporate Events Set Designer is responsible for conceptualizing, designing, and developing scenic environments, trade show displays, and event sets that support both new business ...

Scenic River Barista - Part-Time

Medina, OH · On-site

$13.50 - $15.50/hr

Scenic River Barista (Medina Hospital Location) - Buehler's Baristas prepare or serve specialty ... Understand that this is not designed to cover all the duties that are required, and there may be ...

Scenic River Barista - Part-Time

Medina, OH · On-site

$13.50 - $15.50/hr

Scenic River Barista (Medina Hospital Location) - Buehler's Baristas prepare or serve specialty ... Understand that this is not designed to cover all the duties that are required, and there may be ...

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Showing results 1-20

Scenic Designer information

See Ohio salary details

$47.1K

$55.7K

$65.1K

How much do scenic designer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for scenic designer in Ohio is $55,663.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,300.00 and $58,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a scenic designer?

A scenic designer, also known as a set designer, is a professional who creates the visual environment for stage productions, films, television shows, and other performances. They are responsible for designing and overseeing the construction of sets that reflect the story, mood, and style of the production. Scenic designers work closely with directors, lighting designers, costume designers, and other members of the production team to ensure the set complements the overall artistic vision. Their work involves creating sketches, models, and technical drawings, as well as selecting materials and collaborating with construction crews.

What does a scenic designer do?

A scenic designer typically works in the set production department for theatrical, film, or television productions. They can also work for museums, zoos, and other industries that produce special exhibits that require background scenery. Your duties and responsibilities in this career are to create scenery that mimics a physical environment, such as backgrounds used on a sound stage or theater stage, in consultation with other members of the art department and the director. From these consultations, you sketch rough drafts and, with approval from supervisors, begin to build the sets or backdrops, adding any props or fixtures necessary to complete the scene.

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

To thrive as a Scenic Designer, you need strong skills in visual arts, spatial design, and an understanding of theater production, typically supported by a degree in scenic or theatrical design. Familiarity with CAD software, 3D modeling tools, and traditional drafting techniques is commonly required. Creativity, collaboration, and effective communication are vital soft skills for bringing directors' visions to life and working with production teams. These abilities ensure that the scenic environment enhances storytelling while meeting technical and logistical demands of stage productions.

How does a scenic designer typically collaborate with directors and other design departments during a production?

Scenic Designers work closely with the director to ensure the visual environment aligns with the overall artistic vision of the production. Collaboration extends to other design departments such as lighting, costume, and sound to maintain consistency and address practical needs like scene changes or actor movement. Regular meetings and design presentations are common, and Scenic Designers often adjust their plans based on feedback from the team. This collaborative process is essential for creating cohesive and functional stage environments.

What is the difference between Scenic Designer vs Set Designer?

AspectScenic DesignerSet Designer
CredentialsBachelor's degree in theater, design, or related field; experience in theater or filmBachelor's degree in theater, design, or related field; experience in film or television
Work EnvironmentTheater productions, film sets, television studiosFilm and television set construction, studio environments
Industry UsagePrimarily theater, some film and TVPrimarily film and TV, some theater
Role FocusDesigning the overall look of the scenery for stage productionsDesigning the physical environment for film and TV sets

While both Scenic Designers and Set Designers create environments for visual storytelling, Scenic Designers focus mainly on theater productions, designing scenery that enhances live performances. Set Designers typically work in film and television, creating sets that appear on camera. The roles overlap in design skills and industry knowledge but differ in their primary media and specific responsibilities.

How much do scenic designers make?

The average salary for scenic designers is around $50,000 to $80,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects. Entry-level scenic designers typically earn less, while experienced professionals working on major productions can earn higher salaries. Skills in CAD software and a strong portfolio can influence earning potential.

What do you need to be a scenic designer?

To become a scenic designer, you typically need a bachelor's degree in theater design, fine arts, or a related field. Strong skills in drawing, model-making, and knowledge of stagecraft and materials are essential, along with proficiency in design software like AutoCAD or SketchUp. Experience through internships or assistant roles is also valuable for building a portfolio and industry connections.

What are the most commonly searched types of Scenic Designer jobs in Ohio?

The most popular types of Scenic Designer jobs in Ohio are:

What cities in Ohio are hiring for Scenic Designer jobs?

Cities in Ohio with the most Scenic Designer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Scenic Designer jobs in OH?

For Scenic Designer jobs in OH, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Scenic Designer job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 7% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 83% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,663 per year, or $26.8 per hour.

Faculty Tenure Track-9 Mo

Kent, OH • On-site


Kent State University
Education • 5 - 10K employees

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 31 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

365th of 623 rated colleges and universities

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students


$70 - $100/hr

Other

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Job Title:

Faculty Tenure Track-9 Mo

Physical Location:

Kent Campus - Kent, OH

Salary:Basic Function:

THE SCHOOL OF THEATRE AND DANCE AT KENT STATE UNIVERSITY INVITES APPLICANTS FOR A FULL-TIME TENURE TRACK POSITION AT THE RANK OF ASSISTANT OR ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR IN SCENIC DESIGN.

Additional Basic Function – if applicable:

THIS IS A 9-MONTH APPOINTMENT WITH THE POSSIBILITY OF SUMMER TEACHING OR DESIGN WORK.

Examples of Duties:

TEACH COURSES RELATED TO SCENIC DESIGN AT THE UNDERGRADUATE AND GRADUATE LEVELS; DESIGN SCENERY FOR THE SCHOOL SEASON AND/OR MENTOR AND SUPERVISE STUDENT DESIGNERS; DEVELOP AND MAINTAIN A RESEARCH/CREATIVE ACTIVITY PORTFOLIO ALIGNED TO THE RANK EXPECTATIONS OF THE SCHOOL OF THEATRE AND DANCE; PERFORM APPROPRIATE UNIVERSITY, COMMUNITY AND PROFESSIONAL SERVICE COMMENSURATE WITH RANK EXPECTATIONS; OPPORTUNITIES TO DESIGN FOR PORTHOUSE THEATRE, THE SCHOOL’S PROFESSIONAL SUMMER THEATRE, ARE POSSIBLE, BUT NOT GUARANTEED.

Additional Examples of Duties – if applicable:Minimum Qualifications:
  • MFA IN THEATRE, OR EQUIVALENT PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
  • SIGNIFICANT EXPERIENCE AS A PROFESSIONAL SCENIC DESIGNER FOR THEATRE
  • DEMONSTRATED SUCCESS TEACHING THEATRE IN A UNIVERSITY SETTING.
Preferred Qualifications – if applicable:
  • EVIDENCE OF EFFECTIVE LEADERSHIP SKILLS, COLLEGIALITY, AND COLLABORATION
  • EXPERIENCE LEADING AND MENTORING BOTH UNDERGRADUATE AND GRADUATE STUDENTS
  • KNOWLEDGE OF SCENIC ART AND PERIOD STYLES
  • EXPERIENCE WITH DESIGNING IN A VARIETY OF VENUES
  • ABILITY TO INTEGRATE DIVERSITY AND A MULTICULTURAL PERSPECTIVE INTO TEACHING AND RESEARCH
  • DEMONSTRATED POTENTIAL FOR CONTINUED EXCELLENCE IN BOTH TEACHING AND THE PRACTICE OF RESEARCH/CREATIVE ARTISTRY.
Assessments:

Asterisk (*) indicates knowledge, skills, abilities which require assessments

Working Conditions / Physical Requirements:

Light work-Exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently to move objects. Incumbent must be able to communicate with others. Incumbent may be required to travel from building to building frequently and off campus occasionally.

Special Instructions Summary:Additional Information:

Must pass a security check.

Kent State University is committed to creating a community that is culturally and intellectually diverse and to attracting and retaining a diverse staff. We strive to create and maintain working and learning environments that respect differences, and are inclusive, welcoming, respectful and kind.

For official job descriptions, visit www.kent.edu/hr.

We are an equal opportunity employer and are committed to non-discrimination to employ and advance qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected Veteran status.

We comply with VEVRAA and Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities.

Kent State University is a Smoke-Free, Tobacco-Free University effective July 1, 2017. Smoking and tobacco is not permitted on any of Kent State’s campuses or other locations and properties that are owned, operated, or leased by Kent State, both domestic and international. For additional details, visit www.kent.edu/smoke-free http://www.kent.edu/smoke-free.

Disclaimer:

The intent of this description is to illustrate the types of duties and responsibilities that will be required of positions given this title and should not be interpreted to describe all the specific duties and responsibilities that may be required in any particular position. Directly related experience/education beyond the minimum stated may be substituted where appropriate at the discretion of the Appointing Authority. Kent State University reserves the right to revise or change job duties, job hours, and responsibilities.

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