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Set Designer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

As a Set Designer , you'll transform creative concepts into visually compelling environments that elevate our productions and strengthen our clients' brands. Every wall, prop, color palette, and ...

About SET Active SET creates athleisure designed for what's next. Founded on the belief that style and comfort shouldn't be mutually exclusive, the brand offers versatile pieces that transition ...

New

Design Assistant

Beverly Hills, CA · On-site

$30 - $36/hr

About SET Active SET creates athleisure designed for what's next. Founded on the belief that style and comfort shouldn't be mutually exclusive, the brand offers versatile pieces that transition ...

The Apparel Designer supports the Product Design team in bringing SET Active's seasonal vision to life through thoughtful, trend-forward execution. This role works closely with the Senior Product ...

(TEMP) Apparel Designer

Beverly Hills, CA · On-site

$100K - $125K/yr

The Apparel Designer supports the Product Design team in bringing SET Active's seasonal vision to life through thoughtful, trend-forward execution. This role works closely with the Senior Product ...

Director of Operations

Beverly Hills, CA · On-site

$150K - $170K/yr

About SET Active SET creates athleisure designed for what's next. Founded on the belief that style and comfort shouldn't be mutually exclusive, the brand offers versatile pieces that transition ...

About SET Active SET creates athleisure designed for what's next. Founded on the belief that style and comfort shouldn't be mutually exclusive, the brand offers versatile pieces that transition ...

Summary The CNC Set-Up Technician is responsible for performing set-ups on CNC mills and lathes ... The Company is primarily engaged in designing and manufacturing not only extruded plastic ...

Designer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$93K - $148K/yr

Final role level--Designer, Project Designer, or Senior Designer--will be aligned with experience, skill set, and demonstrated leadership. How You Will Make an Impact: Design Responsibilities (All ...

Designer

Newport Beach, CA · On-site

$93K - $148K/yr

Final role level--Designer, Project Designer, or Senior Designer--will be aligned with experience, skill set, and demonstrated leadership. How You Will Make an Impact: Design Responsibilities (All ...

Designer

Newport Beach, CA · On-site

$93K - $148K/yr

Final role level--Designer, Project Designer, or Senior Designer--will be aligned with experience, skill set, and demonstrated leadership. How You Will Make an Impact: Design Responsibilities (All ...

Designer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$93K - $148K/yr

Final role level--Designer, Project Designer, or Senior Designer--will be aligned with experience, skill set, and demonstrated leadership. How You Will Make an Impact: Design Responsibilities (All ...

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Set Designer information

See California salary details

$13

$30

$54

How much do set designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for set designer in California is $30.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.67 and $43.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does a set designer get paid?

Set designers typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the productions they work on. Entry-level set designers may start at lower salaries, while experienced professionals or those working on major projects can earn higher wages. Many set designers also work freelance or on a project basis, which can affect income levels.

What is a set designer?

A set designer’s duties are focused on creating the overall scenery and set design for films, TV shows, and stage performances. They are involved in the creative process, the construction process, and the management of personnel and resources to complete the project. The set designer must work with other artists, like directors and producers, to get an understanding of the concepts needed for production. It’s the set designer’s job to bring together the design according to the script while working with the production team to ensure it is within the budget.

How do you become a set designer?

To become a set designer, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in theater design, fine arts, or a related field. Gaining experience through internships or assistant roles, developing skills in drawing, model-making, and familiarity with design software like AutoCAD or SketchUp, and building a strong portfolio are essential steps in entering the profession.

How does a set designer typically collaborate with directors and other creative team members during a production?

Set Designers work closely with directors, costume designers, lighting designers, and other creative professionals to ensure the visual elements of a production align with the overall artistic vision. Collaboration often begins with concept meetings, where ideas are discussed and initial sketches are reviewed. Throughout the process, Set Designers attend rehearsals, provide updates, and adapt designs based on feedback or logistical constraints. Open communication and flexibility are key, as designs may need to evolve to suit changing production needs or new creative insights.

What does a set designer do?

A Set Designer is responsible for creating the physical surroundings in which a play, film, television show, or other production takes place. They collaborate closely with directors, producers, and other members of the creative team to design sets that support the story and vision of the project. This includes researching, sketching, building models, and overseeing the construction and decoration of the set. Set Designers must balance creativity with practical considerations like budget, safety, and time constraints. Their work helps immerse the audience in the world of the production.

What is the difference between Set Designer vs Scenic Artist?

AspectSet DesignerScenic Artist
CredentialsTypically holds a degree in theater, design, or related fieldOften has art or painting background, sometimes with theater experience
Work EnvironmentDesigns and plans the overall look of the set, collaborates with directors and designersFocuses on painting and finishing set pieces, working closely with set designers
Industry UsageCommonly employed in theater, film, and television productionPrimarily found in theater and film industries for set finishing

The Set Designer creates the visual concept and layout of the set, while the Scenic Artist brings that vision to life through painting and finishing. Both roles are essential in production, but they focus on different stages of the set creation process.

Are there jobs in set design?

Yes, there are jobs in set design, primarily in the entertainment, theater, and event industries. Set designers create visual environments for productions and often work closely with directors and production teams, requiring skills in design, drafting, and familiarity with tools like CAD software. Employment can be found with production companies, theaters, and film studios, with opportunities varying by location and project scope.

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 strong artistic ability, knowledge of spatial design, and typically a degree in theater design, fine arts, or a related field. Proficiency in design software such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite, as well as familiarity with model-making and construction techniques, is essential. Creativity, collaboration, and effective communication are vital soft skills for translating directors' visions and working with production teams. These competencies ensure visually compelling, functional sets that support storytelling and the overall success of a production.
What are the most commonly searched types of Set Designer jobs in California? The most popular types of Set Designer jobs in California are:
What job categories do people searching Set Designer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Set Designer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Set Designer jobs? Cities in California with the most Set Designer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Set Designer jobs in CA? For Set Designer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Set Designer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 88% In-person, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,230 per year, or $30.4 per hour.

Set Designer

HIGHSCALE

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

About High Scale
We're High Scale - a future-focused, data-obsessed agency revolutionizing video advertising on TV and social media. Think Amazon's obsession with customer experience meets SpaceX's fearless ambition-that's the DNA behind everything we do.
Our 120-person team of creatives, strategists, and innovators produces thousands of high-impact campaigns weekly for the world's leading lifestyle, fashion, beauty, and DTC brands. With 50,000 sq. ft. of DTLA studios and a global influencer network, we're redefining how performance marketing and creative production come together to help brands grow.
We move fast, think creatively, and believe that every detail matters. From a thoughtfully styled living room to a striking product display, our sets play a critical role in bringing stories to life. If you're passionate about design, love transforming concepts into immersive environments, and enjoy working in a collaborative, high-energy production environment, you'll thrive at High Scale.
Why This Role Matters
The right set doesn't just create a beautiful background-it creates an experience.
As a Set Designer, you'll transform creative concepts into visually compelling environments that elevate our productions and strengthen our clients' brands. Every wall, prop, color palette, and furniture choice contributes to the story we're telling and influences how audiences connect with the content.
Working closely with Producers, Creative Strategists, Directors, Cinematographers, and Art Department teams, you'll design and build sets that are visually impactful, production-friendly, and optimized for commercial advertising across television and social media.
Whether it's a luxury beauty campaign, a cozy home setting, a modern kitchen, or a bold lifestyle concept, your creativity and attention to detail will help produce content that captures attention and drives results.
What You'll Do
Design Creative Set Concepts
Translate creative briefs into visually engaging set designs that align with each brand's identity.
Develop mood boards, color palettes, layouts, and styling concepts for commercial productions.
Collaborate with creative teams to ensure every set enhances the intended story and marketing objective.
Present design concepts and recommendations during pre-production planning.
Build & Style Production Sets
Source furniture, props, décor, and materials that bring creative concepts to life.
Prepare, assemble, and style sets for studio and on-location productions.
Ensure every set is camera-ready and visually polished before filming begins.
Adapt set designs quickly to accommodate production changes and creative feedback.
Collaborate Across Production Teams
Work closely with Producers, Directors, Gaffers, Cinematographers, Stylists, and Production Assistants throughout each shoot.
Coordinate with production schedules to ensure sets are completed on time.
Support efficient transitions between multiple productions while maintaining exceptional quality.
Manage Set Inventory & Resources
Maintain an organized inventory of furniture, props, décor, and production materials.
Research and source new design elements that expand the studio's creative capabilities.
Monitor budgets while making thoughtful purchasing recommendations.
Ensure studio spaces remain organized, functional, and production-ready.
Drive Creative Innovation
Stay current with design trends across interiors, retail, fashion, lifestyle, beauty, and social media content.
Continuously introduce fresh visual ideas that elevate production quality.
Identify opportunities to improve workflows, maximize reusable assets, and increase production efficiency.
Who You Are
Experienced Set Designer
3+ years of experience in Set Design, Production Design, Visual Merchandising, Interior Styling, Event Design, or a related creative field.
Experience designing sets for commercial advertising, television, digital media, photography, or branded content is highly preferred.
A strong portfolio showcasing a range of creative environments is required.
Strong Design Eye
You have an exceptional understanding of composition, color theory, spatial design, textures, and visual storytelling.
You know how to create environments that look incredible both in person and through the camera lens.
You understand how lighting, camera angles, and product placement influence design decisions.
Creative Problem Solver
You enjoy transforming ideas into reality while balancing creativity, practicality, timelines, and budgets.
You're resourceful and can create premium-looking environments using both custom-built and sourced materials.
You adapt quickly when creative direction evolves during production.
Highly Organized
You can manage multiple projects, production timelines, and design assets simultaneously.
You maintain organized inventories, documentation, and design resources.
You're proactive in anticipating production needs and ensuring everything is prepared before shoot day.
Thrives in a Fast-Paced Studio Environment
You enjoy collaborative creative work where every day presents a new challenge.
You take ownership of your projects, contribute ideas freely, and are always looking for ways to raise the visual standard of every production.
You believe great design isn't finished until every detail has been thoughtfully considered.
Perks & Benefits
Design Sets Seen by Millions
Bring creative concepts to life for leading lifestyle, beauty, fashion, wellness, and DTC brands across TV and social media.
Work in a World-Class Studio
Create within our 50,000 sq. ft. production facility alongside talented creatives, producers, cinematographers, and designers.
Creative Freedom & Variety
Every project presents a new opportunity to design unique environments across a wide range of industries and brand aesthetics.
Career Growth
Expand your expertise in production design, art direction, creative strategy, and commercial content creation as High Scale continues to grow.
A Culture Built Around Creativity
Join a collaborative team that values craftsmanship, innovation, curiosity, and people who are excited to push creative boundaries.
High Scale is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity because exceptional creativity is fueled by different perspectives, experiences, and ideas. If you're passionate about designing environments that inspire, captivate, and tell unforgettable stories, we'd love to hear from you.
Department Production Locations Los Angeles HQ