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Stage Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Pholio

Founding Product Designer

Manhattan, NY

Prior startup experience in startups, either as early stage designer or founder * Interest in AI tooling to scale design impact Seniority level Mid-Senior level Employment type Full-time Job function ...

TecTammina

UX Designer

Chattanooga, TN

Enforce early-stage designs to usability testing or expert review In-depth knowledge of user interface best practices and standards. Develop wireframes, behavioral specifications Additional ...

La Jolla Playhouse

$17.75/hr

This apprenticeship is designed for early career stage managers who want to deepen their skills in a professional, fast paced regional theatre environment. Apprentices receive mentorship from ...

Glendale Community College

Theatre Technician

Glendale, CA · On-site

$5.4K - $5.9K/mo

Reviews and completes work requests for stage productions; utilizes tools and equipment to inspect, repair, fabricate and install a variety of requested performing arts construction and stage designs ...

New

WILMETTE PARK DISTRICT

Stage Manager

Wilmette, IL

Working closely with the production manager, directors, designers, cast members, crew, and families, the Stage Manager oversees rehearsal logistics, maintains production documentation, manages ...

El Centro Milagro

Season43 Stage Manager

Portland, OR · On-site

$17.50 - $18/hr

Key Responsibilities: * scheduling and running rehearsals. * communicating the director's wishes to designers and crafts people. * coordinating the work of the stage crew. * calling cues, running ...

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Stage Designer information

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$35.5K

$83.1K

$110K

How much do stage designer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for stage designer in the United States is $83,148.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,000.00 and $109,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do you become a stage designer?

To become a stage designer, individuals typically pursue a bachelor's degree in theater design, set design, or a related field. Gaining experience through internships, building a portfolio, and developing skills in drafting, painting, and computer-aided design (CAD) are essential steps in establishing a career in stage design.

What is the difference between Stage Designer vs Set Designer?

AspectStage DesignerSet Designer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in theater, design, or related fieldOften requires a degree in theater, architecture, or interior design
Work EnvironmentWorks primarily on live theater, concerts, and performancesWorks on film, television, and theatrical productions
Industry UsageCommonly used in theater and live performance industriesCommonly used in film, TV, and stage productions

While both Stage Designer and Set Designer create visual environments, the Stage Designer focuses on designing the overall stage layout for live performances, ensuring functionality and aesthetic appeal. The Set Designer, on the other hand, primarily designs the physical scenery and backgrounds for theater, film, or TV productions. Their roles often overlap, but their specific focus and work environments differ.

What is the highest paid design job?

In the field of design, executive roles such as Creative Director or Design Director tend to be the highest paid, often earning six-figure salaries. These positions require extensive experience, leadership skills, and a strong portfolio, typically within advertising, branding, or digital media companies.

What are some common challenges Stage Designers face when working on live productions?

Stage Designers often encounter challenges such as balancing creative vision with budgetary or technical constraints, adapting designs to different venues, and collaborating with directors and other departments like lighting, sound, and costumes. Meeting tight deadlines and making real-time adjustments during rehearsals are also common aspects of the role. Strong communication and problem-solving skills are crucial to navigate these challenges and deliver visually compelling and practical stage environments.

Is AI replacing designers?

AI is increasingly used as a tool to assist stage designers in tasks such as visualizing concepts, generating set designs, and automating repetitive work. However, creative decision-making, artistic vision, and hands-on craftsmanship remain essential aspects of the role that AI cannot fully replicate. Stage designers continue to rely on their expertise, creativity, and collaboration skills alongside technological tools.

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 solid background in set design, spatial awareness, visual arts, and often a degree in theater design or a related field. Familiarity with design software like AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite, as well as knowledge of stagecraft and lighting systems, is typically required. Creativity, collaboration, problem-solving, and strong communication skills set outstanding stage designers apart. These skills ensure effective realization of artistic visions, smooth coordination with production teams, and the creation of impactful stage environments.

How much do theatre set designers get paid?

Theatre set designers typically earn between $30,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the scale of productions. Salaries can vary widely for freelance designers and those working in regional theaters versus major productions or Broadway shows. Many set designers also supplement income through additional work or consulting.

What does a stage designer do?

A stage designer, also known as a set designer, is responsible for creating the visual environment of a theater production, concert, or event. They design sets, props, and sometimes lighting to help bring the director’s vision to life and enhance the storytelling. Stage designers collaborate closely with directors, costume designers, and lighting designers to ensure all visual elements work together. Their work includes sketching ideas, building models, selecting materials, and overseeing the construction and installation of sets.
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Stage Designer jobs near you
German Theater Stage Designer/Set Builder

German Theater Stage Designer/Set Builder

Middlebury College

Middlebury, VT • On-site

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Middlebury College rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

318th of 546 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Description
The German Summer Language School at Middlebury College in Vermont (USA) is hiring for a full-time stage designer/ set builder to support the School's co-curricular German language opera and German play (two productions) in summer 2020 (July 1st - August 15th 2020). Since budgets for these productions are very small, we are looking for somebody who can create basic (movable) but efficient designs, in close collaboration with the productions' directors and technical staff, and who will be able to build one of them on site. Production titles will be announced in spring.
The German Summer Language School is a total immersion German summer language academy, welcoming university students and adult learners to our Vermont campus for seven weeks each summer. Founded in 1915, it is the longest-running summer language program in the country, and it has been designated an AATG Center of Excellence in 2013. Students learn under Middlebury's trademark Language Pledge (=they are not allowed to use any other language than German for the duration of the program), and all employees of the School are required to adhere to this Pledge when with students.
In addition to the salary, lodging and a complete meal plan will be provided.
Access to all of the College's sports and cultural facilities and activities (sports complex, concerts, museum etc.)
Full participation in the German School's daily life, and Insurance is available.
Qualifications
  • native or near-native German speaker
  • working proficiency in English
  • at least two productions as lead designer/ builder (please provide portfolio)
  • ability to work under high pressure and respond to short-notice changes
  • ideally: experience with theater in an educational context

Application Instructions
Candidates should submit: letter of interest, CV, your artistic portfolio and a letter of reference that speaks to your abilities. Only complete applications, submitted via Interfolio, will be considered.
Application deadline is February 21, 2020, but the positions will be open until filled. This position is for 2020 summer only.

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