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Stage Designer Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Senior CAS Modeler

Irvine, CA · On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

Build and refine models from sketches, engineering packages, and Designer-generated digital models ... and late-stage changes. * Contribute to a positive, collaborative, and highly creative team ...

Senior Software Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$129K - $171K/yr

... designed to help businesses achieve success online. Founded in 2009, the company is headquartered in Irvine, USA, with a team of 201-500 employees. The company is currently Growth Stage.

Software Engineer, Generalist

Irvine, CA · On-site

$166K - $220K/yr

Demonstrated success in designing, implementing, and managing various data storage solutions (e.g ... Successful candidates will be matched to a specific team at a subsequent stage of the recruitment ...

Senior Software Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$129K - $171K/yr

... designed to help businesses achieve success online. Founded in 2009, the company is headquartered in Irvine, USA, with a team of 201-500 employees. The company is currently Growth Stage.

Senior Software Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$129K - $171K/yr

... designed to help businesses achieve success online. Founded in 2009, the company is headquartered in Irvine, USA, with a team of 201-500 employees. The company is currently Growth Stage.

Showing results 41-60

Stage Designer information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$37K

$86.7K

$114.8K

How much do stage designer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for stage designer in Riverside, CA is $86,746.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,500.00 and $113,700.00 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 cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Stage Designer jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Stage Designer job openings:

Infographic showing various Stage Designer job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Temporary. Highlights an 93% In-person, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,746 per year, or $41.7 per hour.

$130K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

KIA Design Center
Are you passionate about creating the next generation of automotive design and transforming visionary sketches into production-ready digital surfaces? Kia Design Center is seeking a Senior CAS Modeler to join our world-class design team in Irvine, California.
At Kia, you will play a critical role in bringing innovative vehicle concepts to life, collaborating with talented Designers, Engineers, Visualization Artists, and fellow Modelers to shape the future of mobility. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced CAS professional who combines technical expertise with creativity, craftsmanship, and a passion for automotive excellence.
WHAT YOU WILL DO
  • Develop high-quality Interior and Exterior digital models using Autodesk Alias Studio.
  • Build and refine models from sketches, engineering packages, and Designer-generated digital models (Alias, SubD, Blender).
  • Create surfaces with a strong emphasis on lead-in, surface tension, highlighting, and overall design quality.
  • Construct single-span surfaces and logical patch layouts that support efficient collaboration, modification, and downstream development.
  • Collaborate closely with Designers, Visualization teams, Engineers, and fellow Modelers throughout the vehicle development process.
  • Prepare Alias data for design reviews, visualization, milling, 3D printing, and vendor releases.
  • Support the creation of physical models by delivering well-organized, production-ready digital data.
  • Work with scan data, including reverse engineering, scan cleanup, and preparing scan information for design and modeling applications.
  • Adapt quickly to evolving project schedules, design direction, engineering requirements, and late-stage changes.
  • Contribute to a positive, collaborative, and highly creative team environment.

WHAT YOU WILL BRING TO THE ROLE
  • 8+ years at an automotive OEM
  • Proficient in Autodesk Alias Studio
  • Ability to read and inderstand Engineering criteria
  • BS, BFA, MS, MFA or Diploma in Transportation / Product Design is a plus.
  • Strong ability to utilize various types of 2D and 3D visualization software (Photoshop, Sketchbook, Procreate, etc.) and strong digital modeling skills (preferably, Alias, SubD, Maya, or Blender)

WHAT HYUNDAI CAN OFFER YOU
  • Zero dollar employee premiums on Medical, Dental, and Vision for you and your family
  • 100% employer-paid disability and life insurance
  • Generous paid time off including vacation, sick and abundant holidays
  • A global environment that fosters diversity
  • Competitive salaries
  • Retirement savings and planning benefits
  • Access to health savings accounts and flexible spending accounts
  • Salary Range: $130,000 ~ $170,000

OTHER DETAILS
Candidates applying for positions with Hyundai KIA must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire. HATCI is an Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled and Veteran. VEVRAA Federal contractor.