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Set Construction Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Technical Drafter

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$63K - $80K/yr

Previous experience working on scenic designs, stagecraft, or set construction for live performances, film, or television. REQUIRED EDUCATION / EXPERIENCE : * 5+ years of professional experience as a ...

Theater Support Technician

Miami, FL ยท On-site

$35K - $45K/yr

The role assists with assemblies, performing arts events, set and prop construction, costuming, and venue maintenance. This position requires strong carpentry skills, a solid understanding of ...

Theater Support Technician

Miami, FL ยท On-site

$35K - $45K/yr

The role assists with assemblies, performing arts events, set and prop construction, costuming, and venue maintenance. This position requires strong carpentry skills, a solid understanding of ...

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Carpenter

Pacoima, CA ยท On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Set construction * Finished carpentry skills * Clean-up shop and any location * Loading and unloading of trucks * Moving, installation, and strike of our stock platforms * Rigging of scenery and ...

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Set Construction information

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How much do set construction jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for set construction in the United States is $20.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $21.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is set construction?

Set construction is the process of building the physical environments used in film, television, theater, and other productions. This work involves creating backdrops, props, platforms, and structures to match the creative vision of the production's designers and directors. Set construction teams use a variety of materials and tools, working collaboratively to ensure the set is safe, functional, and visually accurate. Their work is essential for creating immersive and believable worlds on stage or screen.

What are some common challenges faced in set construction and how can they be managed?

Set construction professionals often encounter tight deadlines and last-minute design changes, which require adaptability and strong problem-solving skills. Coordinating with designers, directors, and other departments is crucial for ensuring the set meets creative vision while staying within budget and safety requirements. Effective communication, attention to detail, and a collaborative mindset help manage these challenges and contribute to successful production outcomes.

What is the difference between Set Construction vs Scenic Artist?

AspectSet ConstructionScenic Artist
Primary RoleBuilds and assembles physical set pieces and structuresPaints and finishes set pieces to achieve visual effects
Required SkillsCarpentry, woodworking, blueprint readingPainting, color theory, artistic techniques
Work EnvironmentWorkshop, on-site construction areasPaint stations, on-site or studio
Industry UsageTheatrical, film, television productionsTheatrical, film, television productions

While both roles are essential in production design, Set Construction focuses on building the physical structures, whereas Scenic Artists specialize in painting and finishing those structures to create the desired visual effects. Understanding these differences helps productions assemble the right team for each phase of set creation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Set Construction, and why are they important?

To thrive in Set Construction, you need strong carpentry, basic electrical, and construction skills, often supported by relevant experience or vocational training. Familiarity with tools such as saws, drills, and set design software, as well as knowledge of safety regulations, is crucial. Attention to detail, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities are vital soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure sets are built safely, efficiently, and creatively to meet production needs and deadlines.
More about Set Construction jobs
What cities are hiring for Set Construction jobs? Cities with the most Set Construction job openings:
What states have the most Set Construction jobs? States with the most job openings for Set Construction jobs include:
Infographic showing various Set Construction job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,541 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

Technical Drafter

Object Construction, Inc.

Los Angeles, CA โ€ข On-site

$63K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

TECHNICAL DRAFTER
LOS ANGELES, CA, UNITED STATES
Object Construction is seeking a creative and motivated individual with a background in scenic design, film & TV production, or theatrical environments to join our technical design team. Successful candidates will assist the technical design phase of a project in collaboration with the technical director, fabrication leads, and project managers. They will develop technical solutions to project challenges and generate appropriate documentation to communicate those solutions to clients, subcontractors, and shop floor.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

  • Expertise in 3D Modeling & 2D drafting with AutoCAD.
  • Expertise in wood, foam, & metal construction techniques specifically for entertainment, themed environments, and/or exhibits & displays.
  • Knowledge of theatrical rigging techniques & structural design for theater, film, and TV sets.
  • Extensive knowledge of construction materials, hardware, and adhesives used in scenic and production design.
  • Experience with CNC / CAM software.
  • Strong organizational skills and ability to manage large drawing sets in AutoCAD and Rhino.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including designers, engineers, and fabricators.

PREFERRED SKILLS:

  • Aptitude with Adobe Creative Cloud products.
  • Experience with sustainable design and material selection.
  • Previous experience working on scenic designs, stagecraft, or set construction for live performances, film, or television.

REQUIRED EDUCATION / EXPERIENCE:

  • 5+ years of professional experience as a Technical Designer/Drafter, Shop Foreman, Lead Fabricator, or similar role in a regional theater, commercial scene shop, film, or TV production environment.
  • Bachelorโ€™s degree in technical theater, scenic design, industrial design, or comparable work/apprenticeship experience.
  • Proven ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines.
  • Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, to convey technical information clearly.