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Set Design Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Pop-Up Talent

Production Coordinator

Arlington, VA · On-site

$56K/yr

Stage: decking, soft goods, music stands, set design * Lights: Stage lights, floor lights, special lights as needed * Presentation: worship lyrics, announcements, sermon notes * Video: cameras ...

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Set Design information

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$15

$34

$62

How much do set design jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for set design in Washington is $34.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.98 and $50.10 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 Washington? The most popular types of Set Design jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Set Design jobs in Washington? For Set Design jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Set Design jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Set Design jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Set Design jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Set Design job openings:
Set Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Set Design job openings in Washington as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,564 per year, or $34.9 per hour.
Theatre and Technical Director Adjunct Faculty

Theatre and Technical Director Adjunct Faculty

Prince George's Community College

Largo, MD • On-site

Part-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Adjunct Faculty
Position Information
Position Title
Theatre and Technical Director Adjunct Faculty
Position Type
Faculty
Department
Humanities
FLSA
Exempt
Full Time or Part Time
Part Time
Fixed Term/Tenure Track
Grade
Salary Range
Hiring Salary Range
Salary Commensurate with Education and Experience
Union/Non Union
Non Union
Job Description Summary
As Theatre Instructor, the faculty member is responsible for the coordination, planning, preparation, presentation, and evaluation of classroom instruction and related activities during the day, evening, or weekend. The instructor must remain current in the discipline area and continually explore teaching methods and strategies to engage learners, organize and plan instructional content that accommodates diverse learning styles, and devise appropriate assessment tools that monitor student learning outcomes. In addition, as part-time Technical Director, the faculty member will have the following responsibilities:
Minimum Qualifications
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
  • Master's Degree in an entertainment technology field
  • Three years of college teaching or equivalent set design experience at the college or professional level.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
  • Ability to operate theatrical equipment.
  • Ability to manage personnel.
  • Demonstrated ability to multitask and deal with high levels of stress.
  • Advanced knowledge of theatre; stage terminology and lexicon; and theatrical skill sets
  • Ability to speak and write in English effectively.
  • Possession of advanced skill sets/knowledge in the following areas: stage scenery, stage set design, rigging, lighting, sound and/or carpentry.
  • Ability and desire to work with students, community members and staff.
  • Knowledge of drafting and the ability to read and create plans for theatre productions and live entertainment.
  • Ability to learn and apply emerging techniques in entertainment technology.
  • Have a broad knowledge of live performance and technology

Criteria
CRITERIA: The following criteria, which are not the sole criteria used in the final hiring decision, will be used to review the applications of those persons who meet the stated minimum qualifications and to select those qualified applicants who will be interviewed. Other information and observations made during the interview process may be considered in the selection process. A Resume/CV and cover letter are required with the application. Please ensure that your documents address the criteria listed below for this position.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES
  • Assist with the implementation of academic theatre production elements, including build, paint, props, maintenance, and strike.
  • Determine the necessary technical support, such as lighting, sound, staging, and special needs, such as projection, and the solicitation and contracting of the additional crew, necessary for events and performances in advance of production dates.
  • Supervise set and stage construction, management and strike as needed.
  • Read and interpret blueprints, drawings, and plots, supplementing design work as needed.
  • Complete construction of scenic design elements within the designated time as determined by the overall production schedule.
  • Assist designers with setting up, maintaining, and operating sound, lighting, stage, and other technical equipment and systems.
  • Ensure smooth operation of the technical aspects of all productions.
  • To Facilitate lighting, sound, and projection board operation during performances.
  • Assist with preparing and managing technical operation budgets, maintaining inventory, and ordering specialized supplies and equipment.
  • To Purchase, lease and/or borrow equipment within specified budgetary limits as needed.
  • Assist in making recommendations regarding capital purchases of technical equipment.
  • Ensure that invoices for payment and/or receipts for disbursement concerning authorized expenditures are promptly submitted proficiently and efficiently with all expenses within the budget.
  • Assist in monitoring the condition of equipment, including lighting, sound, and rigging equipment; arranging for repair and replacement within budgetary constraints; performing preventive maintenance on equipment as needed
  • Maintain current knowledge of all equipment and supervises training on all equipment.
  • Help recruit, manage, and retain stagehand volunteers/paid vendors and supervise student workers.
  • Assist with assuring a safe work environment in the backstage and stage areas.
  • Attend required production meetings.
  • Serve as senior manager on duty after regular hours of operation during assigned productions.
  • Oversee the management of all load-in materials and return of borrowed/leased items for theatre area productions.
  • Develop and maintain relationships with local designers, builders, & colleges with technical training programs.
  • Additional duties as assigned.

Job Requirements
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Must have the use of sensory skills to effectively communicate and interact with students, employees, and the public through the use of the telephone and personal contact as normally defined by the ability to see, read, talk, hear, handle, or feel objects and controls. The ability to lift 50 pounds and the physical capability to effectively use and operate various equipment related to live events and mass communication production
OTHER REQUIREMENTS
  • Ability to communicate effectively in spoken and written standard English.
  • As required by the 1986 Immigration Act, be prepared to present acceptable documentation showing your identity and that you are a U.S. citizen or an alien who is authorized to work.
  • A background investigation will be conducted prior to the offer of employment. A signed authorization for the release of personal information will be required if selected for an interview.

Is Background Check Required?
Yes
Is the incumbent responsible for working with minor children or directly engaging with minor children on campus?
No
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
ADJ23111/12
Open Date
07/01/2025
Close Date
Open Until Filled
No
Background Check Statement
Special Instructions to Applicants
Effective August 8, 2022, Prince George's Community College's current vaccine mandate will expire for students, faculty, and staff. Select exceptions may apply. Face coverings will be voluntary campus-wide, including in classrooms and instructional spaces. Although the College will no longer require new employees and students to be vaccinated as a condition of employment or instruction based on current public health conditions, COVID-19 vaccines and boosters are strongly recommended.
Application Status; you will receive an email acknowledging receipt of your application, upon which time no further communication occurs unless selected for an interview or the position is filled. If recommended for hire, communication is immediately sent to your references listed on your application. Also, you will receive an email notification from HireRight requesting you to submit authorization to complete a background investigation.

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