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Set Design Carpenter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Carpenter

Post Falls, ID ยท On-site

$50 - $70/hr

Flexibility to set your own schedule * Direct track to become lead installer * Paid training in ... Remodeling professionals About Art of Drawers We design and install custom pull-out drawers and ...

Set Dec Carpenter

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$28 - $32/hr

Build and adapt set pieces and decorative elements to meet design specifications, dimensions, and ... Support senior carpenters, set decorators, and project leads with additional fabrication and ...

Lead Residential Carpenter

Madison, WI ยท On-site

$45 - $50/hr

Just as importantly, you know how to set the standard for the people working alongside you. Chads Design Build is looking for an experienced Lead Residential Carpenter to help deliver residential ...

Lead Residential Carpenter

Madison, WI ยท On-site

$45 - $50/hr

Just as importantly, you know how to set the standard for the people working alongside you. Chads Design Build is looking for an experienced Lead Residential Carpenter to help deliver residential ...

Lead Residential Carpenter

Madison, WI ยท On-site

$45 - $50/hr

Just as importantly, you know how to set the standard for the people working alongside you. Chads Design Build is looking for an experienced Lead Residential Carpenter to help deliver residential ...

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Set Design Carpenter information

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$14

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How much do set design carpenter jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for set design carpenter in the United States is $25.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.91 and $28.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a set design carpenter?

Set design carpenters are skilled tradespeople who construct, assemble, and install the physical sets used in theater, film, television, and live events. They work from technical drawings or models created by set designers to build scenery, props, platforms, and backdrops using materials like wood, metal, and plastics. Their work ensures that the set is both visually appealing and structurally sound, often collaborating closely with designers, directors, and other crew members to bring creative visions to life.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a set design carpenter?

To thrive as a Set Design Carpenter, you need strong carpentry skills, an understanding of set construction techniques, and often a background in technical theater or related fields. Familiarity with power tools, scenic drafting software (like AutoCAD), and safety certifications are typically required. Creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork are essential soft skills that help in adapting to changing designs and collaborating with designers and crew. These skills and qualities are crucial to building safe, functional, and visually compelling sets that meet production needs and tight deadlines.

What are some typical challenges faced by set design carpenters during a production, and how can they be addressed?

Set Design Carpenters often face tight deadlines, last-minute design changes, and the need to adapt to different materials or construction techniques. Effective communication with designers, production managers, and fellow carpenters is essential to ensure that changes are implemented smoothly and safely. Staying organized, maintaining a flexible mindset, and being proactive about potential issues can help address these challenges, resulting in a successful set build that meets both creative and safety standards.

What is the difference between Set Design Carpenter vs Scenic Carpenter?

AspectSet Design CarpenterScenic Carpenter
CredentialsHigh school diploma, technical training, apprenticeshipHigh school diploma, technical training, apprenticeship
Work EnvironmentTheatrical, film, television setsTheatrical, film, television sets
Industry UsagePrimarily in theater, TV, film productionPrimarily in theater, TV, film production
Job FocusBuilding and installing set structures based on design plansConstructing and finishing scenic elements for productions

Set Design Carpenters and Scenic Carpenters often share similar skills and work environments, focusing on building sets for entertainment productions. However, Set Design Carpenters typically work closely with designers to realize the overall vision, while Scenic Carpenters focus more on constructing specific scenic elements. Both roles require technical carpentry skills and industry experience, making them closely related in the entertainment industry.

What states have the most Set Design Carpenter jobs?

States with the most job openings for Set Design Carpenter jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Set Design Carpenter jobs?

For Set Design Carpenter jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Set Design Carpenter job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,115 per year, or $25.1 per hour.

Fall Play Set Design

Plainfield, IL โ€ข On-site

Plainfield Community Consolidated School District 202
Educationย โ€ขย 51 - 200 employees

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Salary:ย  Placement on the appropriate schedule of the Negotiated Agreement for Extra-Curricular assignments.

Description:

  • Provide effective leadership and supervision in activities and events for the students.
  • Organize and supervise after-school meetings, keeping accurate attendance records.
  • Effectively lead students to plan and execute activities and events.

Position overview:ย 

The Fall Play Set Design Sponsor oversees the planning, design, construction, and safe implementation of all scenery and stage elements for the high school musical. This sponsor mentors students in theatrical design and technical theater while ensuring that all set pieces meet safety, budgetary, and production requirements. Key Responsibilities: - Collaborate with Administration, Director, and other sponsors to develop the overall visual concept of the play - Guide students in creating set designs, sketches, models, and build plans - Ensure designs align with the script, director's vision, and performance space limitations - Attend technical rehearsals and performances as required - Address set-related issues during rehearsals and shows Construction and Technical Oversight: - Supervise students during set construction, painting, and installation - Teach proper use of tools, materials, and theatrical construction techniques - Ensure all scenery is structurally sound, safe, and compliant with school and other safety policies - Coordinate load-in, scene changes, and strike of the set Student Leadership and Education: - Instruct and mentor students in set design, carpentry, painting, and stagecraft - Promote teamwork, responsibility, and creativity among stage crew members - Assign and oversee student roles

Qualifications:

  • Candidates mustย have aย State of Illinois Professional Educator License registered in Will County, or have taken the A.S.E.P. Requirements for Coaching in Illinois, or have a State of Illinois Substitute Teaching License registered in Will County.
  • Bachelor's Degree (Education, English, Communication, Theatre) Background or experience in technical theater, scenic design, carpentry, art, or related fields. Strong leadership, communication and leadership skills.

Application Procedure:

  • Apply online