1

Set Design Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

Product Design Engineer

Dearborn, MI · Hybrid

$115K - $192K/yr

... salary will be set within the applicable range according to job scope, responsibility and ... Design and validate control algorithms (Model Based Design with Matlab/Simulink and C-code) to meet ...

Product Design Engineer

Dearborn, MI · On-site

$115K - $192K/yr

Design and validate control algorithms (Model Based Design with Matlab/Simulink and C-code) to meet ... salary will be set within the applicable range according to job scope, responsibility and ...

Showing results 41-60

Set Design information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$12

$28

$50

How much do set design jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for set design in Detroit, MI is $28.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.52 and $40.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Are there jobs in set design?

Yes, there are jobs in set design, primarily in the entertainment, theater, and television industries. Set designers create and build physical environments for productions, often requiring skills in design, carpentry, and knowledge of industry software like AutoCAD. Employment can be found with production companies, theaters, and film studios, with roles ranging from entry-level to senior positions.

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a set designer?

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.

What does a set design do?

A set designer creates the physical environment for theater, film, or television productions by designing and building sets that support the story and mood. They collaborate with directors and production teams, use tools like CAD software, and oversee construction to ensure the set aligns with the artistic vision. Attention to detail and understanding of space, materials, and safety are essential in this role.

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.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Set Design jobs in Detroit, MI? The most popular types of Set Design jobs in Detroit, MI are:
What job categories do people searching Set Design jobs in Detroit, MI look for? The top searched job categories for Set Design jobs in Detroit, MI are:
Infographic showing various Set Design job openings in Detroit, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,623 per year, or $28.2 per hour.

Prototype Engineering Design Manager

Ford Motor Company

Dearborn, MI • Hybrid

$115K - $218K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

We made history and now we work to transform the future - for our customers, our communities and our families. You'll see your work on the road every day, helping people move freely and pursue their dreams. At Ford, you can build more than vehicles. Come build what matters.

Join us in shaping the future of Ford Motor Company, as part of a global organization with exceptional colleagues in world-class facilities. As part of Ford Design, you'll be at the cutting edge of Ford's most strategically critical work, designing people and society's needs into the heart of our next generation of products, services, and experiences.

In this position...

As a Prototype Engineering Design Manager you will lead a team of product engineering designers tp bring concepts to life in the form of functional high-fidelity prototypes. Leveraging your expertise in automotive design and/or engineering you will have the opportunity to see the future of Ford firsthand and play a pivotal role in the early-stage development of the next generation of Ford vehicle content and experiences. This role requires a deep understanding of automotive systems and subsystems, strong organizational skills, and the ability to manage complex projects from conception to completion.

You'll have...

  • Bachelors degree in engineering, design, or equivalent

  • Ability to work in a fast-paced and rapidly changing environment

  • 5+ years of experience working in automotive engineering and/or design with a strong understanding of vehicle level systems and subsystems

  • 5+ years of experience leading complex projects and project teams - leveraging program management tools as appropriate

  • 5+ years of experience leveraging prototype manufacturing techniques to build high fidelity prototypes such as additive manufacturing (3D Printing), milling, fiberglass layups, clay modeling, etc.

  • 5+ years of experience with design / PLM software such as Catia, 3DX, Teamcenter, Alias etc.

  • 5+ years of experience working collaboratively with design, engineering, product marketing and program management

  • Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to think creatively.

  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills.

Even better, you may have...

  • Masters degree in design, engineering or equivalent

  • 5+ years of experience in prototype software design and development, with a focus on prototyping and rapid iteration.

  • Fluent in various CAD software such as Catia, Rhino, Alias, etc.

  • Experience with machine learning, artificial intelligence, or other advanced technologies.

You may not check every box, or your experience may look a little different from what we've outlined, but if you think you can bring value to Ford Motor Company, we encourage you to apply!

As an established global company, we offer the benefit of choice. You can choose what your Ford future will look like: will your story span the globe, or keep you close to home? Will your career be a deep dive into what you love, or a series of new teams and new skills? Will you be a leader, a changemaker, a technical expert, a culture builder...or all of the above? No matter what you choose, we offer a work life that works for you, including:

  • Immediate medical, dental, vision and prescription drug coverage

  • Flexible family care days, paid parental leave, new parent ramp-up programs, subsidized back-up child care and more

  • Family building benefits including adoption and surrogacy expense reimbursement, fertility treatments, and more

  • Vehicle discount program for employees and family members and management leases

  • Tuition assistance

  • Established and active employee resource groups

  • Paid time off for individual and team community service

  • A generous schedule of paid holidays, including the week between Christmas and New Year's Day

  • Paid time off and the option to purchase additional vacation time.

This position is leadership level 6 and ranges from $115,500-$218,100.     

Final determination of salary grade will be based on candidate's skills and experience, and base salary will be set within the applicable range according to job scope, responsibility and competitive market value.

For more information on salary and benefits, click here

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Candidates for positions with Ford Motor Company must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status or protected veteran status. In the United States, if you need a reasonable accommodation for the online application process due to a disability, please call 1-888-336-0660.

This position is hybrid. Candidates who are in commuting distance to a Ford hub location may be required to be onsite four or more days per week. #LI-Hybrid #DesignTeam  #LI-DP1 

What you'll do...

  • Lead a team to engineer / design prototypes which include:

    • Show / Concept / Pre-Production vehicles

    • Interior and exterior systems (Ex: Lighting, Closures, Instruments Panels, Consoles, Seats)

    • Interior and exterior components (Ex: Buttons, nobs and switches)

    • Interior and exterior clay model armatures

  • Support the development of prototype build plans, lead the team through delivering data on time and with quality

  • Work collaboratively with design, engineering, marketing and program teams to align on scope of work, build timing and budget - managing those throughout the prototype build cycle

  • Leverage background in automotive systems and subsystems to identify and document design and engineering feasibility concerns and support the identification of robust solutions.

  • Identify areas of opportunity and process efficiencies and action those as appropriate

  • Stay updated with the latest industry trends and technologies to continuously improve prototypes.


Ford logo

About Ford

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Ford Motor Company, we believe freedom of movement drives human progress. With our incredible plans for the future of mobility, we have a wide variety of opportunities for you to accelerate your career and help us define tomorrow's transportation.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Doral, FL, US

Year founded

1982