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Stage Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CAD Designer/Estimator

East Hartford, CT · On-site

$26.75 - $37/hr

... the bid stage. * Design and pre-engineer pipe hanger support systems and strut grid systems per plans and specifications (in many cases it will be necessary to envision the designs in order to ...

Stage Hand

Redford, MI · On-site

$17.25 - $23/hr

... the design and installation of sound systems, and troubleshooting signal flow and connectivity ... Maintaining stage cleanliness, organization, and compliance with all safety procedures during stage ...

Contribute to sketching, CADs, and early-stage design exploration * Assist in the development and organization of trim, branding, and labeling concepts * Support building and maintaining construction ...

BIM Manager, Design

Glendale, CA · On-site

$110K - $125K/yr

Coordination conflicts and late-stage design changes are measurably reduced. * Models remain usable, performant, and data-reliable from start to finish. * Design, creative, and construction leaders ...

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Stage Design information

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$10

$57

$130

How much do stage design jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for stage design in the United States is $57.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49.04 and $62.02 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.

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 jobs make $3,000 a month without a degree?

Stage designers and related roles in the entertainment industry can earn around $3,000 per month, especially with experience and strong technical skills in set construction, lighting, and CAD software. Many of these jobs are project-based or freelance, often requiring a portfolio and industry knowledge rather than formal degrees.

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.
More about Stage Design jobs
What cities are hiring for Stage Design jobs? Cities with the most Stage Design job openings:
What states have the most Stage Design jobs? States with the most job openings for Stage Design jobs include:
Infographic showing various Stage Design job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,893 per year, or $57.6 per hour.

CAD Designer/Estimator

NEFCO Service Divisions LLC

East Hartford, CT • On-site

$26.50 - $36.75/hr

Other

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

Description

NEFCO Engineered Supports (NES) is looking to add a CAD Designer/Estimator with a mechanical engineering/piping background. NES offers full-service design and detailing services for pipe hangers and supports in accordance with ASME, AISC, MSS and other applicable codes and contract specifications. NEFCO performs pipe stress analysis to determine the necessary loads on pipe hangers for providing design sketches. We can supply unique or typical hanger detail drawings as well as hanger location plans to facilitate the installation of the piping systems. Our services meet all customer requirements and, when required, NEFCO engineering is P.E. certified.

Requirements

Job Duties:

NEFCO Stress Analysis Process and Benefit:

  • NEFCO will provide a design sketch showing the bill of material and fabrication details.
  • The design sketch helps the customer by indicating what material is necessary to support the pipe.
  • NEFCO will then provide a location drawing of the pipe supports to assist the customer with the actual installation of the supports.

NEFCO AISC Detailing & Shop Fabrication Drawings:

A large portion of NEFCO's work currently consists of preparing Shop Fabrication drawings for public transportation and midscale structural jobs including bridges and bridge components through our AISC Certified shop. Experience with the following or an aptitude to learn the following would be considered advantageous:

  • Familiarity with AISC standards and detailing for steel construction.
  • Knowledge of structural steel fabrication, welding and design.
  • Extreme attention to detail in preparing error free Shop Fabrication drawings, details, and Bill of Materials per the company standards.
  • Familiarity with AISC and AWS Codes and Specifications to prepare proper details.
  • Experience with preparing Nested parts for Plasma cutting in the shop using Hypertherm software
  • Experience with Autodesk's Advanced Steel, Autocad, Inventor and Revit.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's Degree in Civil, Mechanical or Structural Engineering (preferred)
  • AutoCad proficiency
  • Minimum 2 years of industry experience.

Requirements:

  • Must be proficient in AutoCad and have extensive knowledge in pipe hanger and support systems for various types of piping systems.
  • Prepare full take-off, material layout, technical evaluation, and preparation of quote letter for assigned projects of pipe hanger support systems and strut grid systems per plans and specifications projects in the bid stage.
  • Design and pre-engineer pipe hanger support systems and strut grid systems per plans and specifications (in many cases it will be necessary to envision the designs in order to estimate types and quantities of pipe supports)
  • Draft detailed submittals, locate hangers, supports and strut grids on drawings.
  • Field walks through and verification (if required).
  • Project management responsibilities may include client relations, project scheduling, budget and contract administration, and project estimating.
  • Project sales order preparation, coordinate product requirements with purchasing, scheduling of deliveries, add on sales with customer and assisting in the ongoing contract management of the project through completion.

Physical Requirements:

  • Converse verbally on phone and in person.
  • Identify and check written documents in mail and on computer.
  • Climb stairs, stretch and bend; traverse uneven terrain on jobsites.

FLSA:

  • Exempt