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Stage Design Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

STURDY.CO

Spatial Designer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$95 - $125/hr

Design spatial layouts, stage configurations, and environments for live events and brand experiential projects, from concept through execution. * Translate creative and brand concepts into functional ...

AEG Worldwide

Stagehand - Mountain Winery

Saratoga, CA · On-site

$19.25 - $25.75/hr

Load and unload equipment from trucks and set up equipment according to stage design while ensuring safety requirements are met. * Assist carpenters with scenery build and installation of stage ...

STURDY

Spatial Designer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$95 - $125/hr

Design spatial layouts, stage configurations, and environments for live events and brand experiential projects, from concept through execution. * Translate creative and brand concepts into functional ...

Sturdy

Spatial Designer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$95K - $125K/yr

Design spatial layouts, stage configurations, and environments for live events and brand experiential projects, from concept through execution. * Translate creative and brand concepts into functional ...

AEG Worldwide

Stagehand - Mountain Winery

Saratoga, CA

$19.25 - $25.75/hr

Load and unload equipment from trucks and set up equipment according to stage design while ensuring safety requirements are met. * Assist carpenters with scenery build and installation of stage ...

AEG

Stagehand - Mountain Winery

Saratoga, CA · On-site

$19.25 - $25.75/hr

Load and unload equipment from trucks and set up equipment according to stage design while ensuring safety requirements are met. * Assist carpenters with scenery build and installation of stage ...

AEG Presents

Stagehand - Mountain Winery

Saratoga, CA · On-site

$19.25 - $25.75/hr

Load and unload equipment from trucks and set up equipment according to stage design while ensuring safety requirements are met. * Assist carpenters with scenery build and installation of stage ...

Purple Hires Inc

Electrical Engineer

Anaheim, CA · On-site

Hands on experience with microcontrollers, including bring up and early-stage design * Board Level & Unit level Testing & Trouble shooting * Familiarity with thermal and EMI testing and basic ...

TAIT

Stage Technician

La Mirada, CA · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

... design. TAIT's 20 global offices have developed iconic productions and experiences in over 30 ... The Stage Technician works in collaboration with Production Staff for the set-up and strike down of ...

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Stage Design information

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How much do stage design jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for stage design in California is $56.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48.41 and $61.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is stage design?

Stage design, also known as scenic design, is the art and practice of creating the visual environment for a theatrical production, concert, or event. It involves designing and arranging the physical space, including sets, backdrops, props, and sometimes lighting, to support the storytelling and mood of the performance. Stage designers work closely with directors, lighting designers, and costume designers to ensure a cohesive look and feel that enhances the audience's experience. The process often includes sketching, creating models, and collaborating with builders and painters to bring the concept to life.

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

To thrive as a Stage Designer, you need a strong background in theatrical design, visual arts, and spatial awareness, usually supported by a degree in theatre design or a related field. Familiarity with design software like AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite, as well as knowledge of stage construction and lighting systems, is typically required. Creativity, collaboration, and strong communication skills are crucial for translating directors' visions into practical stage environments. These skills ensure the creation of engaging, safe, and visually compelling sets that enhance the overall theatrical experience.

What are some common challenges stage designers face when collaborating with directors and technical teams?

Stage designers often navigate the challenge of aligning their creative vision with the director’s interpretation of the script and the technical limitations of the venue. Balancing artistic concepts with budget constraints, safety regulations, and the capabilities of the available crew can also be complex. Effective communication and flexibility are crucial, as last-minute changes in direction or technical requirements are common and require designers to adapt quickly while maintaining the integrity of their designs.

What is the difference between Stage Design vs Set Design?

AspectStage DesignSet Design
Primary FocusDesigning the physical environment for live performances, including theaters and concertsCreating visual backgrounds and environments for film, TV, or photography
Work EnvironmentRehearsal spaces, theaters, performance venuesFilm studios, on-location shoots, post-production
CredentialsDesign background, theater or performance arts experienceDesign, art, or architecture background

While both roles involve creating visual environments, Stage Design focuses on live performance settings like theaters and concerts, emphasizing functionality and audience experience. Set Design is geared toward film and television, prioritizing visual storytelling and camera considerations. Understanding these differences helps professionals and employers align expectations and skills for each role.

How do you become a stage designer?

To become a stage designer, individuals typically pursue a degree in theater design, set design, or a related field, and develop skills in drawing, model-making, and computer-aided design (CAD). Gaining experience through internships or assistant roles on productions helps build a portfolio and industry connections, which are essential for securing full-time positions in theater, film, or television production.

How to get experience in stage design?

Stage design is a creative role that benefits from hands-on experience through internships, assisting established designers, or volunteering for local productions. Developing skills in set construction, drafting, and using design software like AutoCAD or SketchUp can also enhance your qualifications. Building a portfolio of your work is essential for demonstrating your abilities to potential employers.

What does a stage design do?

A stage designer creates the visual environment for performances by designing and arranging scenery, backdrops, and props to enhance the storytelling and atmosphere. They collaborate with directors and technical teams, often using tools like CAD software, to develop concepts that fit the production's theme and requirements.

What are popular job titles related to Stage Design jobs in California?

For Stage Design jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Stage Design jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Stage Design jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Stage Design jobs?

Cities in California with the most Stage Design job openings:

Stage Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Stage Design job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 37% Full Time, 38% Part Time, and 25% Temporary. Highlights an 87% In-person, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $118,323 per year, or $56.9 per hour.

Spatial Designer

STURDY.CO

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$95 - $125/hr

Other

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

STURDY. is a multidisciplinary creative studio specializing in the innovation of visual storytelling, and building experiences for world class artists and brands.

We are currently looking for a Spatial Designer to help shape the physical and spatial experience of our live events and brand experiential projects. This role is ideal for someone who thinks in three dimensions, understands how audiences move through and experience space, and can translate creative concepts into buildable, functional environments.

Reporting to the Creative Director, the Spatial Designer works closely with Creative, Production, and Fabrication teams to design stages, environments, and experiential installations that are both conceptually strong and physically realizable, accounting for venue constraints, structural feasibility, and budget from the earliest stages of design.

This role spans both live events (concerts, tours, activations, stage design) and brand experiential projects (pop-ups, installations, brand environments), and requires a working knowledge of stage building, fabrication methods, rigging, and venue logistics.

  • Design spatial layouts, stage configurations, and environments for live events and brand experiential projects, from concept through execution.
  • Translate creative and brand concepts into functional, buildable spatial designs, including floor plans, elevations, and 3D renderings.
  • Evaluate venue limitations early in the design process, including load-in/load-out access, ceiling heights, rigging points, power capacity, sightlines, egress, and ADA compliance.
  • Collaborate with Creative Directors, Art Directors, Producers, and Production teams to ensure designs align with the creative vision, budget, and production timeline.
  • Partner with fabricators, vendors, and stage-build teams to ensure designs are structurally sound, safe, and executable within scope.
  • Produce technical drawings and specifications (CAD or hand-drafted) to support fabrication, vendor bidding, and on-site build.
  • Contribute to material selection, finish specification, and spatial detailing that supports both aesthetic and budgetary goals.
  • Maintain a working knowledge of stage-building methods, rigging capabilities, and venue standards across a range of event and experiential spaces.
  • Strong spatial and 3D design sensibility, with an understanding of how audiences move through and experience physical environments.
  • Hands-on experience with stage building, fabrication, or scenic construction.
  • Familiarity with venue logistics and limitations, including rigging, load capacities, power, and life-safety requirements.
  • Experience designing for both live events (concerts, tours, activations) and brand experiential projects (pop-ups, installations, environments).
  • Proficiency with CAD software (AutoCAD, Vectorworks, SketchUp, or similar)
  • Working knowledge of 3D modeling and rendering tools (SketchUp, Rhino, or similar)
  • Excellent communication skills, with the ability to work cross-functionally with Creative, Production, and Fabrication teams.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and comfort adapting designs on the fly during build and installation.
  • Comfortable working extended hours and weekends during peak production periods.
  • Ability and willingness to travel domestically and internationally when required.
  • 3-5+ years of experience in spatial design, scenic design, stage design, or experiential design, within live events, entertainment, or brand experience environments.
  • Local candidates to the Los Angeles area preferred.
  • Demonstrated portfolio of spatial or environmental design work, including stage builds and/or experiential installations.
  • Experience working directly with fabricators, vendors, and production teams from design through build.
  • Understanding of structural basics, rigging fundamentals, and venue/production logistics.
  • Bachelor's degree in a related field (e.g., architecture, industrial design, scenic design, interior design) preferred; equivalent professional experience considered.
  • Valid driver's license and comfort handling site visits, load-ins, and on-site production support as needed.

The pay range for this role is:

95,000 - 125,000 USD per year (STURDY. Co HQ)

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