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Stage Design Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

Sr. Program Manager UI/UX Design

Newark, CA

$130K - $131K/yr

This role mainly focuses on guaranteeing the seamless integration and execution from early-stage design concepts until final production. We are looking for an passionate person with a strong mindset ...

Mechanical Engineering Manager

Fountain Valley, CA · On-site

$90K - $140K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

It requires someone capable of both managing projects and being a hands-on chief mechanical engineer with a solid precision mechanical design background, ideally in the motion control/stage design ...

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 ...

... 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 ...

Computational Design Specialist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$95K - $115K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Support early-stage design optioneering and data-driven decision making; identify opportunities for automation and workflow improvement. * Collaborate with BIM, Sustainability, CGI and design teams ...

Sr. Program Manager UI/UX Design

Newark, CA

$157K - $231K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This role mainly focuses on guaranteeing the seamless integration and execution from early-stage design concepts until final production. We are looking for an passionate person with a strong mindset ...

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Showing results 1-20

Stage Design information

See California salary details

$9

$56

$128

How much do stage design jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 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 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.

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.

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.

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. They collaborate with directors and technical teams, often using design software, to develop concepts that fit the production's theme and space. Their work involves understanding stage mechanics, safety standards, and the use of materials to bring the vision to life.

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.

How to get experience in stage design?

Stage design professionals typically gain experience through internships, assisting established designers, or working on student or community theater productions. Developing skills in set construction, drafting, and familiarity with design software like AutoCAD or SketchUp can also enhance job prospects.

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 cities in California are hiring for Stage Design jobs?

Cities in California with the most Stage Design job openings:

Infographic showing various Stage Design job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 76% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $118,323 per year, or $56.9 per hour.

Stagehand - Mountain Winery

AEG Worldwide

Saratoga, CA • On-site

$19.25 - $25.75/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Anschutz Entertainment Group rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Company Information
For more than 20 years, AEG has played a pivotal role in transforming sports and live entertainment. Annually, we host more than 160 million guests, promote more than 10,000 shows and present more than 22,000 events around the world. We are committed to innovation, artistry, and community, and leverage the power of our 300+ venues, leading sports franchises, marquee music brands, integrated entertainment districts, premier ticketing platform and global sponsorship activations, to create memorable moments that give the world reason to cheer.
Our business is interwoven with the human mind and heart, and we strive to build a diverse and inclusive company that reflects the artists, athletes, and fans that we host; reach beyond traditional boundaries to support the communities in which we operate; and minimize our impact on the environment by adopting sustainable practices throughout our business operations.
If you want to be challenged to up your game and make a difference, then join us in giving the world reason to cheer!

Job Summary
The stagehand is responsible for performing all setup before, during, and after events which includes, but is not limited to, assembling and disassembling production equipment on stage. In addition, the stagehand will work closely with and assist carpenters with scenery build, installation, video, sound and light production

Essential Functions

  • Responsible for assembling and setting up at the beginning of the scene (i.e. props, microphones, musical instruments, scenery, etc), disassembling and removing equipment at the end of the scene in addition to cleaning up the stage and backstage area after performances.
  • 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 maintenance, construct and paint set pieces, move and rearrange furniture.
  • Work closely with electricians and lighting assistants with maintenance of video, sound, and light production. Ensure operations of systems are functioning properly.

Required Qualifications

  • A minimum education level of: High School Diploma or its equivalency
  • A minimum of 1-2 years of related work experience.
  • Previous experience with manual labor preferred.
  • Must be able to take direction and execute instructions accurately.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
  • Ability to lift, push and pull up to 50 pounds.

Payscale: $19.00

Bonus: This position is not eligible for a bonus under the current bonus plan requirements.

Benefits: Part-time: This position may be eligible for benefits (ACA qualification).

AEG reserves the right to change or modify the employee's job description whether orally or in writing, at any time during the employment relationship.  AEG may require an employee to perform duties outside their normal description.

AEG's policy is to hire the most qualified applicants.  We are an equal opportunity employer and will not discriminate against any individual, employee, or application for employment on the basis of race, color, marital status, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, or any other legally protected status recognized by federal, state or local law.

Employer does not offer work visa sponsorship for this position.


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