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Stage Designer Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Emerson College

Emerson Stage Overhire

Boston, MA · On-site

$19 - $25.25/hr

Set up, test, break down, and cable sound systems to execute designers' plots under the guidance of ... General Stage Hands: * Support backstage run operations, including fly rail functions and deck ...

Emerson College

Emerson Stage Overhire

Boston, MA · On-site

$27/hr

Set up, test, break down, and cable sound systems to execute designers' plots under the guidance of ... General Stage Hands: * Support backstage run operations, including fly rail functions and deck ...

Education First

Senior Designer

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$85 - $100/hr

That range is your strength, and you use it at every stage of the work. You have a strong point of ... Amazing offices designed to match the caliber of the people who work there, plus the flexibility of ...

EF Education First

Senior Designer

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$85 - $100/hr

That range is your strength, and you use it at every stage of the work * You have a strong point of ... Amazing offices designed to match the caliber of the people who work there, plus the flexibility of ...

Hstar Technologies

Industrial Designer

Cambridge, MA

$141K/yr

Essential Duties & Responsibilities: - Designing mobile robotic systems from concept stage; - Providing technical drawings to engineering team for prototype making; - Coordinating with engineering ...

Newton Research

Designer

Boston, MA · Remote

$60K - $80K/yr

Role Description The Designer will be a core contributor to how Newton Research looks and sounds ... stage. * Comfort working independently in a remote-first environment with minimal hand-holding.

Formlabs

Software Product Designer

Somerville, MA

Partner with product managers to ideate, define, and validate early-stage concepts for new features ... Prior experience designing software for physical products and/or have a background in industrial ...

Formlabs

Software Product Designer

Somerville, MA · On-site

$110 - $165/hr

Partner with product managers to ideate, define, and validate early-stage concepts for new features ... Prior experience designing software for physical products and/or have a background in industrial ...

Socket.dev

Software Product Designer

Somerville, MA · On-site

$110 - $165/hr

Partner with product managers to ideate, define, and validate early-stage concepts for new features ... Prior experience designing software for physical products and/or have a background in industrial ...

Formlabs

Software Product Designer

Somerville, MA · On-site

Partner with product managers to ideate, define, and validate early-stage concepts for new features ... Prior experience designing software for physical products and/or have a background in industrial ...

SALES HR

UX Designer

Boston, MA · On-site

They are seeking a UX Designer who will work directly with customer success and sales to understand ... The company is currently Early Stage.

Axon

Senior Marketing Designer

Boston, MA

$110K - $118K/yr

Create booth concepts, signage systems, stage graphics, display materials, and event collateral ... Art direct motion designers and video editors to ensure the final output reflects the intended ...

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Stage Designer information

See Boston, MA salary details

$38.6K

$90.3K

$119.5K

How much do stage designer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for stage designer in Boston, MA is $90,327.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,000.00 and $118,400.00 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 Boston, MA?

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

What job categories do people searching Stage Designer jobs in Boston, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Stage Designer jobs in Boston, MA are:

What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Stage Designer jobs?

Cities near Boston, MA with the most Stage Designer job openings:

Stage Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Stage Designer job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 4% Temporary. Highlights an 94% In-person, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,327 per year, or $43.4 per hour.

Emerson Stage Overhire

Boston, MA • On-site

Emerson College
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Emerson Collegeexternal

$19 - $25.25/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Join our community and experience Emerson College!
Emerson Stage maintains an overhire list of experienced freelance theatre technicians to assist with build, load in and load out of our productions. Individuals on this list are scheduled on an as-needed basis. Emerson Stage sends out an email to the overhire list when these positions are required for projects, indicating the dates/times of the calls, the production and venue, and the positions open. If available, individuals may reply to the email with their availability and will be selected based on their technical experience to fill the call. Seeking the following positions:
Carpenters
Riggers
Scenic Painters
Props Artisans
Electricians
Sound Technicians
Costume & Wardrobe Technicians
Wig/Hair & Makeup Technicians
Projection Technicians
General Stage Hands
ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES
  • Carpenters/Riggers:
    • Support the construction, installation, and strike of scenery; interpret technical build drawings safely and efficiently alongside students in coordination with the Technical Director
    • Assist the Technical Director in managing safe theatrical rigging, fly rail operations, and flying or hung scenic equipment during load-in and load-out

  • Scenic Painters:
    • Paint and finish all scenic elements including priming, texturing, sculpting, and applying scenic details as designed by the Scenic Designer and Charge Artist
    • Assist in periodic upkeep/touch up of painted elements during the run of a production. Inventory and stock items when needed. Assist in the creation of a "touch up kit" for production and maintain a clean and safe work space

  • Props Artisans:
    • Construct, install, and strike properties under the Props Director's guidance; interpret build drawings safely with students using materials such as wood, foam, plastic, and paint

  • Electricians:
    • Assist with the hang, focus, cabling, and circuiting of lighting plots under the supervision of the Production Electrician; support console programming and practical cabling/wiring

  • Sound Technicians:
    • Set up, test, break down, and cable sound systems to execute designers' plots under the guidance of the Production Sound Engineer; maintain audio gear in coordination with the Sound Supervisor, set up microphones/AV systems, and operate mixing consoles during tech and performances

  • Costume & Wardrobe Technicians:
    • Assist with pulling, constructing, and altering costume garments; serve as wardrobe show crew. Maintain costumes throughout production runs. Works closely with the Draper and Costume Shop Manager to complete projects as needed including costume crafts, stitching, and alterations

  • Wig/Hair & Makeup Technicians:
    • Assist in the maintenance and implementation of wig or makeup requirements for productions. Assist with performer wig/hair styling, and theatrical makeup application or education to facilitate the designers intent
    • Serve as show run crew and maintain hair and makeup needs during productions. Ensure that quick changes, including those involving special effects makeup or wigs are achieved in a timely, safe and efficient manner

  • Projection Technicians:
    • Install, test, and break down projection equipment; execute projection plans under the Projection Engineer's guidance, maintain video equipment, program media consoles, and operate projection systems during tech and shows

  • General Stage Hands:
    • Support backstage run operations, including fly rail functions and deck track run crew duties
    • Assist with load-in and strike logistics, seating setups, event prep, and general hospitality
    • Work cross-departmentally as required and run basic light, sound, or video system boards during performances
  • Flexibility to assist cross-departmentally as needed

QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE, AND SKILLS
  • Strong working knowledge of theatrical environments, live staging operations, and safety protocols
  • Proficiency in reading and interpreting technical drawings, and safely operating power tools
  • Experience hanging, circuiting, focusing, and programming lighting fixtures (familiarity with ETC EOS software is highly desirable)
  • Experience with AV setup, signal flow, digital console operations (e.g., Yamaha systems), or theatrical A2 practices
  • Stitching skills, garment alterations experience, and experience serving on wardrobe run crews
  • Ability to collaborate effectively, integrate into new teams quickly, and work well under pressure
  • Excellent verbal communication and interpersonal skills
  • Basic math skills, including geometry, angles, and fractions
  • Basic understanding of rigging, counterweight lineset operations, and automation systems
  • Professional safety certifications (such as OSHA 10-Hour or Aerial Lift training) are highly valued

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT
  • Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends, nights, and extended production shifts
  • Capability to safely lift, carry, and maneuver items weighing 25 to 50 lbs. independently, and up to 75 lbs. with assistance
  • Comfortable working at heights of up to 20 feet on ladders, scaffolding, or motorized personnel lifts; appropriate PPE must be worn as needed
  • Physical stamina to stand, sit, or maintain difficult physical positions for prolonged periods of time
  • Sustained mental stamina, concentration, and acute visual focus during complex technical operations
  • Working conditions feature variable noise and lighting levels (from quiet setup to loud, dark stage environments)

Hourly rates range from $22 - $27 per hour, commensurate with experience.
IN-OFFICE EXPECTATIONS
This position requires an in-person presence on the Boston Campus during the work week.
Grade of Position: T01N
Employment Category: Intermittent
Scheduled Weekly Hours: 20.00
In addition to a competitive salary, Emerson College is committed to the health and well-being of our employees and family members. We offer a generous benefits package to regular staff scheduled to work 20+ hours per week.
Emerson Employment Categories influence work schedules, benefits eligibility, and time off policies. Benefits include outstanding health plans with limited out-of-pocket expenses, dental plans, generous time-off programs, and a 403(b) retirement benefit with a 9% employer contribution once eligible. Additional benefits, such as life and disability coverage as well as commuter offerings, are available.
Please refer to our benefits website for a full list of benefits and eligibility requirements.

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