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Stage Designer Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

WSU -

Stage Properties Manager

Dayton, OH · On-site

$55K/yr

The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong organizational and budgeting skills, the ability to collaborate effectively with directors, designers, stage managers, and technical staff, and a ...

Vocon Design, Inc.

Project Designer

Cleveland, OH · On-site

We share a passion for the power of design, and a commitment to collaboration at every stage of the creative process. PROJECT DESIGNER I Overview Design professional functioning as Design Lead for ...

Vocon Design, Inc

Project Designer

Cleveland, OH · On-site

$68K - $78K/yr

We share a passion for the power of design, and a commitment to collaboration at every stage of the creative process. PROJECT DESIGNER I Overview Design professional functioning as Design Lead for ...

Vizmeg-Landscaping

$50 - $75/hr

Residential Landscape Designer Stow, OH, US Vizmeg Landscape is a growing, locally rooted landscape ... Interface with sales and project managers and assist with any stage of a project quickly ...

Ansera

Set Designer - Live Events

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

Summary The Corporate Events Set Designer is responsible for conceptualizing, designing, and ... Ability to communicate stage and environmental design concepts with sketches, drawings, or digital ...

Ansera

Set Designer - Live Events

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

Summary The Corporate Events Set Designer is responsible for conceptualizing, designing, and ... Ability to communicate stage and environmental design concepts with sketches, drawings, or digital ...

Ansera

Set Designer - Live Events

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

Summary The Corporate Events Set Designer is responsible for conceptualizing, designing, and ... Ability to communicate stage and environmental design concepts with sketches, drawings, or digital ...

Omni Inclusive

UX SR App Designer

Columbus, OH · Remote

Senior UX Designer Mandatory Skills: * 5-7+ years hands-on designing product experiences or general ... They have likely shipped several products / major features at this stage in their career.

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Stage Designer information

See Ohio salary details

$33.8K

$79K

$104.6K

How much do stage designer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for stage designer in Ohio is $79,049.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,100.00 and $103,600.00 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 Ohio?

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

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

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

What cities in Ohio are hiring for Stage Designer jobs?

Cities in Ohio with the most Stage Designer job openings:

Stage Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Stage Designer job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Temporary. Highlights an 91% In-person, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,049 per year, or $38 per hour.

Stage Properties Manager

Wright State University

Dayton, OH • On-site

$55K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Wright State University rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

574th of 631 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Position Information
Position Information (Default Section)
EEO Statement
Wright State University is an equal opportunity employer.
Faculty Rank or Job Title
Stage Properties Manager
Job Category:
Administrative (exempt/non-exempt)
Department
School of Fine and Performing Arts
EEO number:
26P182
Position FTE
100%
Minimum Annual Salary
$55,000
Salary Band:
UC S04
Job Summary/Basic Function:
The Wright State Theatre area in the School of Fine and Performing Arts is seeking a skilled and detail-oriented professional to serve as Theatre Properties Master and join our collaborative faculty, staff, and student production community. Our production program supports a full season of theatrical works that provide students with hands-on, professional-level training in design, technology, and production practices.
We are seeking a colleague who can oversee the creation, acquisition, and management of all theatrical properties in support of departmental productions. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong organizational and budgeting skills, the ability to collaborate effectively with directors, designers, stage managers, and technical staff, and a commitment to mentoring students in safe, efficient, and industry-standard prop practices.
Join us in supporting high-quality theatrical storytelling in an educational environment where craftsmanship, collaboration, and student learning are central to the production process.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree plus five years of tested experience specific to performing arts, or a Master's degree (MFA preferred) in Theatre, Technical Production, or a related field plus three years of experience.
Preferred Qualifications
Essential Functions and percent of time:
  • 40% - Run and maintain the Prop Shop, including building, sourcing, purchasing, or renting props; developing prop lists through script analysis; maintaining detailed budgets; and managing a consistently updated and organized prop inventory.
  • 15% - Student supervision and mentoring, including training, overseeing, and supporting student workers and Theatre Properties majors.
  • 30% - Assist productions, including coordinating prop plans for load-in, rehearsals, run, and strike; attending production meetings; and ensuring safe and appropriate prop use during rehearsals and performances.
  • 10% - Collaboration and service, working with Theatre Design and Production faculty and staff on operational planning, communication, and continuous improvement of the properties area.
  • 5% - teach two (2) courses per year

Essential Functions and percent of time (cont'd):
Non-Essential Functions and percent of time:
Working Conditions
To preserve the safety and security of the campus community and to maintain the integrity of university operations, it is the policy of Wright State University making an employment offer contingent on various background checks, such as a criminal record, credit history when job related and/or education verifications. Additionally, an administrative review shall be conducted whenever the university learns that an employee is charged with or convicted of a crime (except for minor vehicle violations). Frequently asked questions related to background checks may be found on the Human resources website at http://www.wright.edu/human-resources.
Effective July 1, 2017, per Policy 7230 Wright State University is tobacco-free. Tobacco use, including the sale, advertising sampling and distribution of tobacco products and tobacco related items is prohibited in all university facilities, on all university owned or leased grounds, university owned or operated residence halls and apartments, and at all university sponsored events regardless of location. Tobacco use is also prohibited in all university vehicles or on any equipment owned, leased or operated by Wright State University. This policy applies to anyone on campus including students, faculty, staff, visitors, consultants, vendors, patients, volunteers, and contractor employees.
Special Instructions to Applicants
Qualified applicants should submit a portfolio showcasing their experience in stage properties, including examples of prop design, construction, sourcing, and onstage implementation. Please include detailed descriptions of your role in each project and attach under "Other Document 1".
Posting Date
04/28/2026
First Consideration Date:
Closing Date
Open Until Filled
Yes

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