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Set Design Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Design Engineering Manager - Grand Rapids, MI DISHER is currently partnering with a world leader in ... issues, set clear expectations, and ensure all engineering work is completed accurately ...

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Design Engineering Manager - Grand Rapids, MI DISHER is currently partnering with a world leader in ... issues, set clear expectations, and ensure all engineering work is completed accurately ...

New

DESCRIPTION Senior Design Engineers apply engineering theory and real-world experience to design ... Set the example for professional conduct, accountability, and technical excellence. * Serve as a ...

DESCRIPTION Senior Design Engineers apply engineering theory and real-world experience to design ... Set the example for professional conduct, accountability, and technical excellence. * Serve as a ...

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Set Design information

See Michigan salary details

$12

$26

$47

How much do set design jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for set design in Michigan is $26.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.85 and $38.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Set Designer, you need a solid background in art, architecture, or theater design, often supported by a relevant degree or portfolio of work. Expertise with design software such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite, as well as familiarity with construction methods and materials, is crucial. Creativity, collaboration, and strong communication skills help Set Designers interpret scripts and work effectively with directors and production teams. These abilities ensure that visual environments enhance storytelling and meet both aesthetic and practical production needs.

How does a Set Designer typically collaborate with directors and other creative departments during a production?

Set Designers work closely with directors to understand the vision and mood of the production, ensuring the set supports storytelling and character development. They also coordinate with departments such as lighting, props, and costume to ensure all design elements are cohesive and technically feasible. Regular meetings and design presentations help align everyone’s efforts and resolve any logistical challenges early in the process. This collaborative approach is crucial for creating immersive and functional environments on stage or screen.

What is set design?

Set design is the process of creating the physical surroundings in which a film, television show, theater production, or other performance takes place. Set designers are responsible for conceptualizing and building the scenery, backdrops, and props that help bring a script to life and establish the mood and setting. Their work involves collaborating with directors, producers, and other designers to ensure the visual environment supports the story and artistic vision. Set design combines creativity, technical skills, and a strong understanding of architecture and spatial planning.

What is the difference between Set Design vs Scenic Painting?

AspectSet DesignScenic Painting
Primary RoleConceptualizing and designing the overall look of a setApplying paint and finishes to create textures and visual effects on set pieces
Skills NeededDesign, drafting, spatial planning, creativityPainting techniques, color theory, craftsmanship
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, theaters, film setsWorkshop, on-location, studio
Common CredentialsDesign degree or related experienceArt or scenic painting experience, portfolio

Set Design involves creating the overall visual concept and layout of a scene, while Scenic Painting focuses on bringing that vision to life through painting and finishing techniques. Both roles are essential in production, often working closely together, but they require different skill sets and responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Set Design jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Set Design jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Set Design jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Set Design job openings:
Infographic showing various Set Design job openings in Michigan as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,842 per year, or $26.8 per hour.
Design Engineering Manager

Design Engineering Manager

DISHER

Grand Rapids, MI

Full-time

Posted yesterday


Job description

Design Engineering Manager - Grand Rapids, MI

DISHER is currently partnering with a world leader in the design and manufacture of fluid application systems for the industrial market. Their main focus areas are machining lubrication, stamping and metal forming lubrication, precision fluid dispensing, and fluid mixing and supply. The company serves a global industrial client base and works to improve process efficiency and sustainability by helping manufacturers reduce fluid consumption, optimize tool performance, and eliminate excess waste.

The Design Engineering Manager leads, inspires, and manages the design engineering team, with responsibility for new product development, product improvements, and support of OEM and large end-user projects. 

What it's like to work here:

This hands-on leader drives engineering projects from concept through production. The role requires strong technical judgment, disciplined project management, and the ability to make timely, well-reasoned decisions while maintaining high standards for quality, accuracy, cost, and performance. In addition to team leadership, the Design Engineering Manager contributes directly to design work and ensures accountability for results across the team. This position demands an analytical, detail oriented, and results-driven leader who can manage multiple priorities, quickly identify and correct issues, set clear expectations, and ensure all engineering work is completed accurately, efficiently, and in alignment with company objectives. 

What you will get to do:
  • Lead and control engineering projects from concept through production. 
  • Provide hands-on design leadership, technical direction, and problem-solving support.
  • Drive new product development, product improvement, and customer-specific engineering projects.
  • Maintain the appropriate engineering focus across:
    • 30% revolutionary product development
    • 30% iterative product improvement
    • 40% OEM and large end-user projects
  • Establish clear work plans, priorities, responsibilities, timelines, and performance expectations.
  • Review designs for accuracy, manufacturability, cost, quality, performance, and regulatory compliance.
  • Ensure clean handoffs to Production for successful product launch.
  • Maintain accuracy and consistency of 3D models, drawings, documentation, and Bills of Materials.
  • Identify product performance, quality, and process issues and drive corrective action.
  • Build, lead, and coach a capable, accountable design engineering team.
  • Create and maintain engineering processes, standards, documentation, and training materials.
  • Collaborate with the President, Sales, Marketing, and Production teams as needed.
  • Stay aware of relevant industry trends, technologies, and design improvements. 
  • Aligned with the company’s core values and culture.
  • Innovative, curious, and focused on continuous improvement. 
  • Communicates clearly, directly, and factually.
  • Delegates clearly while maintaining effective oversight and follow-through.
  • Coaches and mentors team members to support growth and performance.
  • Strong analytical and technical skills.
  • Makes fast, thoughtful, and decisive decisions.
  • Makes independent decisions and takes calculated risks with confidence.
  • Maintains high standards for quality, accuracy, structure, and execution. 
  • Detail-oriented with strong accountability and follow-through.
  • Organized, disciplined, and highly efficient.
  • Takes full ownership of results from start to finish.
  • Manages multiple projects effectively. 
What will make you successful:
  • Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field.
  • 10+ years of team management experience with proven success.
  • Proven ability to lead projects from concept through production.
  • Strong design experience, including SolidWorks and machine design.
  • Knowledge of machining and metal forming processes.
  • Strong organizational, technical, and decision-making skills.
  • Clear written and verbal communication skills.
  • ERP experience; Epicor preferred. 

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.