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Set Builder Jobs (NOW HIRING)

As a Skill Builder at our Ellison Residential Group Home located in Muncie , Indiana. You will be integral in providing a family atmosphere in a homelike environment to help residents retain ...

As a Skill Builder at our Logan Residential Group Home located in Muncie , Indiana. You will be integral in providing a family atmosphere in a homelike environment to help residents retain, maintain ...

Set Carpenter

New Orleans, LA

$21 - $28.25/hr

You will support the build of both full-scale and scaled sets by cutting, forming, and finishing ... Construct set walls, floors, ceilings, props, and support structures using wood and cardboard ...

Set Carpenter

New Orleans, LA ยท On-site

$21 - $28.25/hr

You will support the build of both full-scale and scaled sets by cutting, forming, and finishing ... Construct set walls, floors, ceilings, props, and support structures using wood and cardboard ...

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Set Builder information

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$5

$25

$58

How much do set builder jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for set builder in the United States is $25.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $4.81 and $54.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Set Builder Do?

As a set builder, you work for a theatre or film production, creating the physical sets and backdrops for a movie or dramatic production. You accomplish your responsibilities as part of a larger production crew, creating scenes, building necessary fixtures, and ensuring that sets are movable or interchangeable as required during performances. In film and for TV shows, this mobility is less important, but still may be a requirement in closed studio settings. Other duties include setting up camera tracks, assisting the lighting crew, and maintaining accurate inventory records. You report directly to the set designer or key grip, who instructs you on current projects and needs.

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

To thrive as a Set Builder, you need strong carpentry, construction, and design skills, often backed by experience or vocational training in set construction or stagecraft. Familiarity with power tools, blueprints, and safety regulations is essential, and certifications such as OSHA safety training are highly valued. Attention to detail, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities help set builders adapt to creative demands and tight deadlines. These skills ensure sets are built safely, efficiently, and to the specifications required for successful productions.

What are some common challenges a Set Builder faces when working on tight production schedules?

Set Builders often work under tight deadlines, especially in the film, television, and theater industries where production schedules can change rapidly. One common challenge is ensuring that sets are constructed safely and accurately while managing last-minute design changes or material shortages. Effective time management, clear communication with designers and other crew members, and adaptability are crucial for overcoming these obstacles. Collaborating closely with the art department and production team helps to quickly resolve issues and keep the project on track.

What are set builders?

Set builders, also known as set construction workers or set carpenters, are professionals who create and assemble the physical sets used in film, television, theater, and other productions. They work from blueprints or designs to build structures, backdrops, and props that help create the visual environment for a production. Set builders use a variety of materials, such as wood, metal, and fabric, and collaborate closely with designers and directors to ensure the sets meet aesthetic and safety requirements.

What is the difference between Set Builder vs Costume Designer?

AspectSet BuilderCostume Designer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical training or apprenticeshipFashion or costume design degree; portfolio
Work EnvironmentTheatrical, film, or television sets; construction workshopsDesign studios, theaters, film sets, or costume shops
Industry UsageConstruction and set creation for productionsDesigning costumes for performances and productions

Set Builders focus on constructing physical sets based on design specifications, working primarily in construction environments. Costume Designers create clothing and accessories for characters, working in design studios or costume shops. While both roles support theatrical and film productions, their skills and tools differ significantly, with Set Builders emphasizing construction and Costume Designers emphasizing design and fabric work.

What cities are hiring for Set Builder jobs? Cities with the most Set Builder job openings:
What states have the most Set Builder jobs? States with the most job openings for Set Builder jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Set Builder jobs? For Set Builder jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Set Builder - HS (1/2 Contract)- Fall only

Set Builder - HS (1/2 Contract)- Fall only

Spring-Ford Area School District

Royersford, PA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Position Type:
Athletics/Activities/Fine Arts
Date Posted:
5/20/2026
Location:
10-12 Grade Center
Closing Date:
06/03/2026
Set Builder - HS (1/2 Contract)- Fall only
Season: Fall 2026
Full Stipend: $600.00
If the entirety of the contract is not fulfilled, the stipend may be prorated.
This contract is for the 2026-2027 school year.
External applicants must submit current (within 1 year) Act 34, Act 151, and Act 114 clearances.
Spring-Ford Area School District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.