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Set Carpenter Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Scenic Carpenter

Oak Park, IL

$21.50 - $29/hr

Description: S cenic Carpenter and Scenic Painter- Fenwick High School is seeking a Scenic ... Experience in set construction for the stage and advanced scenic painting skills. * Lead a group of ...

Carpenter

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Set the Standard. Build Trust. TruBlue of Chicagoland North is a locally owned home services ... We are hiring a Carpenter to perform high-quality residential repair and maintenance work while ...

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Carpenter

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Set the Standard. Build Trust. TruBlue of Chicagoland North is a locally owned home services ... We are hiring a Carpenter to perform high-quality residential repair and maintenance work while ...

Scenic Carpenter

Oak Park, IL · On-site

$21.50 - $29/hr

S cenic Carpenter and Scenic Painter- Fenwick High School is seeking a Scenic Carpenter and Scenic ... Experience in set construction for the stage and advanced scenic painting skills. * Lead a group of ...

Carpenter

East Chicago, IN · On-site

$21 - $28.50/hr

Carpenter Reports to: Director of Facilities Length: Twelve months FUNCTION Perform skilled ... Set up work from ladders, scaffolds and maintaining the interior and exterior of buildings ...

Trim Carpenter

Merrillville, IN · On-site

$18 - $35/hr

Drill and set door hardware. * Erect scaffolding. * Install partitions, doors, and windows ... QUALIFICATIONS A carpenter must have knowledge of practices, procedures, tools and equipment ...

Trim Carpenter

Merrillville, IN · On-site

$18 - $35/hr

Drill and set door hardware. * Erect scaffolding. * Install partitions, doors, and windows ... QUALIFICATIONS A carpenter must have knowledge of practices, procedures, tools and equipment ...

Trim Carpenter

Merrillville, IN · On-site

$18 - $35/hr

Drill and set door hardware. * Erect scaffolding. * Install partitions, doors, and windows ... QUALIFICATIONS A carpenter must have knowledge of practices, procedures, tools and equipment ...

Trim Carpenter

Mokena, IL · On-site

$18 - $35/hr

Drill and set door hardware. * Erect scaffolding. * Install partitions, doors, and windows ... QUALIFICATIONS A carpenter must have knowledge of practices, procedures, tools and equipment ...

Trim Carpenter

Mokena, IL · On-site

$18 - $35/hr

Drill and set door hardware. * Erect scaffolding. * Install partitions, doors, and windows ... QUALIFICATIONS A carpenter must have knowledge of practices, procedures, tools and equipment ...

Trim Carpenter

Mokena, IL · On-site

$18 - $35/hr

Drill and set door hardware. * Erect scaffolding. * Install partitions, doors, and windows ... QUALIFICATIONS A carpenter must have knowledge of practices, procedures, tools and equipment ...

Carpenter I

Merrillville, IN

$21.50 - $29/hr

CLICK HERE to see a day in the life of a Carpenter at Edward Rose & Sons! What are the ... Responsible for set-up and completion activities including material handling and job site clean-up

Carpenter I

Merrillville, IN · On-site

$21.50 - $29/hr

CLICK HERE to see a day in the life of a Carpenter at Edward Rose & Sons! What are the ... Responsible for set-up and completion activities including material handling and job site clean-up

Carpenter Skilled Laborer

Lisle, IL · On-site

$21.50 - $29/hr

This person does not have to have all these skills but will set you above others. See the ... Experience in basic carpentry, painting, caulking, electrical work, and plumbing * Accurately track ...

Multi Skilled Carpenters

Wheaton, IL · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Paid time off Multi-skilled Trades Carpenter - Ace Handyman Services DuPage needs your expertise ... Own standard set of tools to perform all of the above trades * Own truck or van * Current and valid ...

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Set Carpenter information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$14

$25

$36

How much do set carpenter jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for set carpenter in Chicago, IL is $25.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.54 and $29.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a set carpenter?

Set carpenters are skilled professionals who build, install, and dismantle scenery and props for theater productions, television shows, movies, and other live events. They work closely with set designers and other production staff to ensure the sets are safe, functional, and visually accurate according to the artistic vision. Set carpenters use a variety of materials such as wood, metal, and plastics, and operate power tools and other equipment to construct set pieces efficiently and to specification.

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

To thrive as a Set Carpenter, you need strong carpentry skills, an understanding of set construction techniques, and often a background in theater production or related technical fields. Familiarity with power tools, hand tools, and sometimes CAD software or scenic construction plans is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities are essential soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure that sets are built safely, efficiently, and to the creative specifications needed for successful productions.

What are some common challenges set carpenters face when working on fast-paced productions?

Set Carpenters often work under tight deadlines, especially during the lead-up to filming or live events. One common challenge is adapting quickly to last-minute design changes or unexpected issues with materials and space. Effective communication with designers, other trades, and production managers is essential to ensure safety and maintain quality standards. Being able to problem-solve on the fly and collaborate well with a diverse team can make a significant difference in meeting project goals.

What is the difference between Set Carpenter vs Framing Carpenter?

AspectSet CarpenterFraming Carpenter
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; apprenticeship or vocational training often requiredHigh school diploma or equivalent; apprenticeship or vocational training often required
Work EnvironmentIndoor and outdoor construction sites, focusing on interior set construction for theaters, TV, or filmOutdoor and indoor construction sites, primarily building the structural framework of buildings
Industry UsageUsed mainly in entertainment, theater, and film industriesCommon in residential, commercial, and industrial construction

Set Carpenters and Framing Carpenters share similar skills and training, but they work in different environments and industries. Set Carpenters focus on constructing interior sets for entertainment productions, while Framing Carpenters build the structural framework of buildings. Both roles require carpentry skills and apprenticeships, but their work settings and end goals differ significantly.

How to become a set carpenter?

To become a set carpenter, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by gaining experience through apprenticeships or entry-level positions in carpentry or theater production. Skills in reading blueprints, using hand and power tools, and knowledge of safety procedures are essential; some may pursue technical training or certifications in carpentry or stagecraft. Experience working on construction sites or in theatrical environments can improve job prospects in this field.

What are popular job titles related to Set Carpenter jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Set Carpenter jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Set Carpenter jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Set Carpenter jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Set Carpenter job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,728 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

$21.50 - $29/hr

Part-time

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Description:   Scenic Carpenter and Scenic Painter- Fenwick High School is seeking a Scenic Carpenter and Scenic Painter for our 2026 and 2027 productions of A Christmas Carol and Little Shop of Horrors.
Job Summary:  New Scenic Carpenter  Part-time

Scenic Carpenter and Scenic Painter- Fenwick High School is seeking a Scenic Carpenter and Scenic Painter for our 2026 and 2027 productions of A Christmas Carol and Little Shop of Horrors. The time commitment for this position is Every Tuesday and Thursday from August 18th to November 12th from 2:00PM until 6:00 PM along with two Saturdays (TBD) from 10am to 5:00 PM  and then  every Tuesday and Thursday from from January 26 to April 15th from 2:00PM to 6:00 PM with two Saturdays (TBD) from 10am to 5pm. There will be no work the week of March 25th to April 1st.

Compensation:  Stipend range $3500 - 4200 for the entire year. 
Qualifications: The candidate ideally possess the following skills:

  • Familiar with the safe use of power tools.
  • Ability to read, interpret and follow blueprints.
  • Experience in set construction for the stage and advanced scenic painting skills.
  • Lead a group of teenagers in scenic construction and painting projects.
  • Ability to work with Our In House Tech Directors on a specific timeline and budgets.
  • A High level of organization and cleanliness of working areas.
  • Familiar with OSHA standards of safety.
  • First Aid and CPR trained.
    Application Procedure:
    Apply Online
    Selection Procedure:
    Â