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Stage Designer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

J. F. Ahern Co.

Special Hazards Designer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We have an exciting opportunity for a Special Hazards Designer located in any of our offices or ... Supporting you at every life stage with paid maternity and paternity leave * Mental Health ...

Bazooka Farmstar

Senior Design Engineer

Washington, IA · On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

Works independently on the development of original designs or adaptations requiring specialized experience. Take projects from concept, development, testing, and production following a defined stage ...

Power Packer North America Inc

Project Engineer

Urbandale, IA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Design: creates and modifies (conceptual) product designs and drawings using CAD tools, product ... Knowledge of APQP or stage gate development processes. Benefits: * Comprehensive health benefits ...

PDM

3rd Shift General Labor

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Manage chuck process (pull from production, clean, inspect, stage new for production) * Other tasks ... It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties ...

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All JobsStage Designer JobsStage Designer Jobs in Iowa

Stage Designer information

See Iowa salary details

$33.3K

$78.1K

$103.3K

How much do stage designer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for stage designer in Iowa is $78,098.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,500.00 and $102,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 are popular job titles related to Stage Designer jobs in Iowa?

For Stage Designer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Stage Designer jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Stage Designer jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Stage Designer jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Stage Designer job openings:

Stage Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Stage Designer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,098 per year, or $37.5 per hour.

Experienced Fire Sprinkler Designer

J. F. Ahern

Des Moines, IA • Hybrid

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

J.F. Ahern rating

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Looking for a company that values your skills, respects your contributions, and gives you the tools to thrive?

With more than 145 years as a family-owned business, we've built a reputation as one of the best mechanical and fire protection contractors in the country. We pride ourselves on delivering unmatched quality and innovation while providing you with job stability, opportunities for career progression, and support. We have an exciting opportunity for a Experienced Fire Sprinkler Designer located in Des Moines, IA.

How you will contribute:

This is a great opportunity to showcase your design skills while playing a key role on various fire protection sprinkler system projects. As a Designer, you will exercise your attention to detail while designing automatic sprinkler systems using AutoCAD and AutoSprink. In conjunction with a Sales Project Manager, you will plan, organize and execute projects through activities such as; on-site field surveys, generating hydraulic calculations, submitting drawings to obtain the required building permits, 3D BIM coordination using NavisWorks, preparing stock lists, ensuring the projects adhere to the proposed timeline and budget, and preparing project close-out, operation and maintenance documents.  Candidates with more experience will be given higher-level projects as well as help mentor Designers with less experience.

 What you need to qualify:

Ahern will help make the most of your degree in a design/drafting-related program.   Candidates with related design experience are welcomed applicants who would be given higher-level projects. AutoSprink experience preferred. Being proficient in AutoCAD, mathematically and technically inclined to learn industry-specific software and codes will be essential.  You can stand out above other candidates by demonstrating the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, deadline-driven work environment.  A commitment to providing exceptional customer service, maintaining cutting-edge industry knowledge and being able to execute tasks with a great amount of detail will be crucial.  If you are ready to demonstrate this expertise, Ahern wants you!

Click here to watch a short video about this position


What's in it for you?
At Ahern, we understand that life is more than just work - and we're committed to supporting our employees in every aspect of their lives. Our comprehensive benefits package is designed to give you the flexibility, security, and support you need to thrive - at work and at home. 

Here's how we stand out from the rest:

  • Top-Tier Benefits: Our 401(k) match and health benefits rank in the top 20% nationwide 
  • Incentives: A significant portion of our profits is shared with employees through bonus programs
  • Generous PTO with the opportunity to buy additional time off
  • Paid Parental Leave: Supporting you at every life stage with paid maternity and paternity leave
  • Mental Health Resources: Free, full-service mental health care for you and your family
  • Wellness Programs: Access on-site fitness centers, personal development funds, and more
  • Professional Growth: Take advantage of education assistance, training programs, and development opportunities to advance your career
  • Work-Life Balance: Enjoy hybrid and flexible schedules to fit your needs

By joining Ahern, you'll gain the stability of a company that's been a leader in the industry since 1880, the pride of doing meaningful work, and the support of a team dedicated to your success. Don't settle for just any job-experience what it's like to work for the best!

Ahern is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination and harassment.

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