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Set Designer Internship Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Senior Graphic Designer

Waukegan, IL

$61K - $84K/yr

Partner with photography team on-set to execute creative direction and visual storytelling. * Lead ... Mentor and support print designers and interns to help deliver high-quality creative work. Minimum ...

Senior Graphic Designer

Glenview, IL

$63K - $87K/yr

Partner with photography team on-set to execute creative direction and visual storytelling. * Lead ... Mentor and support print designers and interns to help deliver high-quality creative work. Minimum ...

Summer Internship Program

Chicago, IL · On-site

$7.50 - $15/hr

... designed to provide hands-on exposure to sales, marketing, recruiting, automation, and digital ... Sales-Qualified Meetings Set Target: 8-16 executive or decision-maker meetings booked for the sales ...

... skill set across a variety of key responsibilities. What You Will Do: * Real Estate Investment ... Our benefits are designed to ensure the health and wellness of our employees and their families by ...

Initiate project set up and input information in to Deltek Vision/VantagePoint * Manage project ... Work alongside project lead and Studio Leader to schedule Designers, Interns, etc. with success ...

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Set Designer Internship information

See Chicago, IL salary details

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How much do set designer internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for set designer internship in Chicago, IL is $16.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $19.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of projects and collaborations can I expect during a set designer internship?

As a Set Designer Intern, you'll typically work on a variety of projects ranging from stage productions and television sets to film shoots and live events. You’ll collaborate closely with directors, lighting designers, costume departments, and construction teams to help bring creative visions to life. Interns often assist with drafting set plans, sourcing materials, and participating in on-site installations. The collaborative environment offers valuable opportunities to learn from seasoned professionals and to contribute ideas within a supportive team structure.

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

A successful Set Designer Intern should have a background in theater, art, or design, with foundational skills in drawing, model-making, and spatial planning. Familiarity with design software such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite is typically required, along with knowledge of basic construction techniques. Strong communication, teamwork, and creative problem-solving skills help set interns apart in collaborative production environments. These abilities are crucial for effectively translating creative concepts into practical, visually impactful set designs within tight deadlines.

What is the difference between Set Designer Internship vs Set Designer?

AspectSet Designer InternshipSet Designer
CredentialsTypically pursuing or recent graduate in theater, film, or related fieldsProfessional degree or extensive experience in set design
Work EnvironmentInternship settings, assisting on projects, learning on the jobFull-time professional work on productions, responsible for design execution
Industry UsageEntry-level position, often part of training programsEstablished role with independent responsibilities

The Set Designer Internship is an entry-level position aimed at gaining experience in set design, often held by students or recent graduates. In contrast, a Set Designer is a professional responsible for creating and overseeing the visual concept of a production's sets. Internships serve as a stepping stone toward becoming a full-fledged Set Designer, with the latter requiring more experience and credentials.

What does a set designer intern do?

A Set Designer Intern assists the set design team in creating and building the physical environments for film, television, theater, or events. Duties typically include helping with research, preparing sketches or models, sourcing materials, and supporting the construction and installation of sets. Interns gain hands-on experience by observing professionals, participating in design meetings, and sometimes working directly on set. This internship is a valuable opportunity to learn about the design process, materials, safety protocols, and teamwork required in the industry.
What are the most commonly searched types of Set Designer jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Set Designer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Set Designer Internship jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Set Designer Internship job openings:
Infographic showing various Set Designer Internship job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,981 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

Set Designer/Builder Volunteer

Hasana, Inc.

Chicago, IL

Full-time

Re-posted 4 hours ago


Job description

Company Description
Hasana, Inc. is an accessible luxury brand. The spirit of the
collection features high-end men's and women's clothing and
accessories for timeless style. We provide custom, hand-made items
ranging from contemporary to classic. Each item purchased directly
benefits The Aparecio Foundation and women's education.
Hasana, Inc. is seeking talented students in the Chicago Loop area for
a variety of spring internship positions. Take advantage of on the
job training, mentorship and exposure to all aspects of the fashion
industry.
Hasana, Inc. is committed to developing a fun and productive work
culture that is conducive to positive results!
We offer a uniquely open environment that demands initiative and
imagination from every single team member that are heard, tested, and
genuinely empowered to lead by example and create lasting impacts on
our organization, its programs, and the community.
Please note that this is an unpaid internship.
Job Description

As a set design volunteer you will be responsible for design and oversight of construction of sets to completion and installation while integrating requirements including script, research, and available locations to develop design.

Job Duties/Tasks:
  • Presents drawings for approval and makes changes and corrections as directed.
  • Selects furniture, draperies, pictures, lamps, and rugs for decorative quality and appearance.
  • Assigns staff to complete design ideas and prepare sketches, illustrations, and detailed drawings of sets, or graphics and animation.
  • Examines dressed set to ensure props and scenery do not interfere with movements of cast or view of camera.
  • Reads script to determine location, set, or decoration requirements.
  • Estimates costs of design materials and construction, or rental of location or props.
  • Researches and consults experts to determine architectural and furnishing styles to depict given periods or locations.
  • Designs and builds scale models of set design or miniature sets used in filming backgrounds or special effects.
  • Prepares rough draft and scale working drawings of sets, including floor plans, scenery, and properties to be constructed.
Qualifications
  • Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
  • Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform works of music, dance, visual arts, drama, and sculpture.
  • Creative and practical.
  • Candidates with qualifications in theatre studies, creative or performing arts, drama, fine or visual arts are preferred.
  • Knowledge of graphic or 3D design, illustration, architecture and landscape architecture. 
  • Ability to demonstrate a genuine interest in, knowledge or experience of visual arts, culture and television, film or theatre is essential.
Additional Information
All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.