1

Stage Set Design Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Landscape Architect

Jupiter, FL · On-site

$150K - $185K/yr

Do you value flexibility, with the ability to set your own schedule in a hybrid work environment ... every stage of the design process. The Opportunity As a Senior Landscape Architect , you will:

Banquet | Kitchen Worker II

Miami Beach, FL · On-site

$13.25 - $16.75/hr

... a stage where everyone plays their unique part. At Fontainebleau, striking design, contemporary art, music, fashion and technology merge into a vibrant new kind of guest experience. Guests are ...

Showing results 21-40

Stage Set Design information

What are some common challenges stage set designers face when working on live productions?

Stage set designers often encounter challenges related to limited space, tight budgets, and last-minute script or direction changes. Balancing creative vision with practical constraints—such as safety regulations and quick scene transitions—requires flexibility and strong problem-solving skills. Collaboration is key, as designers must work closely with directors, lighting technicians, and construction crews to ensure the set supports the performance and can be efficiently assembled and dismantled. These challenges make the role dynamic and rewarding for those who enjoy creative teamwork and fast-paced environments.

What do stage set designers get paid?

Stage set designers' salaries vary based on experience, project scope, and location, but they typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually. Experienced designers working on large productions or in major markets can earn higher wages, and many use design software like AutoCAD or SketchUp as part of their work.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a stage set designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Stage Set Designer, you need strong artistic ability, spatial awareness, and a background in theater design or a related field, often supported by a degree in set design or fine arts. Proficiency with design software such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite is typically required, along with knowledge of construction techniques and materials. Creativity, collaboration, and strong communication skills help designers interpret scripts and work effectively with directors, producers, and technical crews. These skills and qualities ensure visually compelling, practical, and safe stage environments that support the overall production vision.

What is stage set design?

Stage set design is the process of creating the physical surroundings in which a theatrical performance, concert, or other live event takes place. This involves designing and arranging scenery, props, and sometimes lighting to support the storytelling and mood of a production. Set designers work closely with directors and other creative team members to ensure the visual elements align with the artistic vision. They use drawings, models, and digital tools to communicate their ideas before the actual set is built. Effective set design enhances the audience's immersion and helps convey the themes and emotions of the performance.

What is the difference between Stage Set Design vs Scenic Artist?

AspectStage Set DesignScenic Artist
CredentialsDesign degree or related experienceArt or painting background, specialized training in scenic painting
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, theaters, production companiesPaint shops, theaters, on-site during set construction
Industry UsageCreates overall set concepts and layoutsExecutes painting and finishing of scenic elements

Stage Set Designers develop the visual concept and layout of theatrical sets, focusing on design and functionality. Scenic Artists bring those designs to life through painting and finishing scenic elements. While both roles collaborate closely, their responsibilities and skill sets differ significantly, with designers focusing on concept creation and scenic artists on execution.

How to get into stage set design?

To pursue a career in stage set design, develop skills in design, carpentry, and painting, often through formal education in theater design, fine arts, or related fields. Gaining experience through internships or assisting established designers helps build a portfolio and industry connections; proficiency with design software like AutoCAD or SketchUp is also beneficial.
What job categories do people searching Stage Set Design jobs in Florida look for? The top searched job categories for Stage Set Design jobs in Florida are:
Infographic showing various Stage Set Design job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution.

Technical Director - Opera & Internal

Straz Center for the Performing Arts

Tampa, FL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Be a Star at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts! Straz Center for the Performing Arts is seeking a Technical Director - Opera & Internal to join our production team. This position oversees all aspects of the technical production related to Opera Tampa events and Straz produced events. The Technical Director will also serve to advise and supplement planning operations for internal Straz events, including fundraising events.Located in downtown Tampa, the 335,000 square-foot Straz Center, one of the largest performing arts complexes in the country, offers a team-based work environment that shows our dedication to the community every day. We reward our full-time employees with a strong benefits package including options for health/dental, vision, etc., discounted downtown parking, food and show discounts, plus a generous 403(b) plan and up to 27 days of PTO/Holidays per year.Essential Functions: Opera Tampa and Straz Produced EventsOversees the planning, scheduling, implementation, and engineering of all scenic elements; collaborates and coordinates with lighting, sound, and production departments to facilitate purchasing and planning. Creates detailed material and labor cost and builds schedules for each production, working closely with designers, Senior Director of Production, and stage directors to establish build priorities. Schedules and moderates all design meetings, production meetings, technical rehearsals, and performances.Actively participates in budget planning for current and future seasons.Oversees construction, load ins, and load outs of scenery and set pieces. Provides additional construction support as needed.Maintains inventory control of Straz assets and stock scenery pieces.Works closely with guest designers to leverage stock pieces to the greatest extent possible to minimize cost and redundancy. Reviews, evaluates, and coordinates all Opera Tampa and Straz Produced production requirements.Researches and recommends rental set and costumes options.Compiles all relevant regulatory and insurance related documents for rental vendors.Recommends Lighting Designers and oversees the installation of lighting plot.Recommends Wig and Makeup Artists, Production Stage Managers, and Assistant Stage Managers.Compiles, orders, or oversees the construction of all required props for Opera Tampa and Straz Produced productions.Partners with Lighting Designer, Center's Master Electrician, and Head Carpenter to determine the hanging plot and positioning of the set on stage.Compiles or creates all required drawings associated with scenic layouts and design documentation to facilitate the rehearsal process and scenic construction processes. Responsible for the procurement and collation of all shop drawings.Orders supplemental lighting equipment in coordination with the Lighting Designer, as required by production.Coordinates orchestra pit setup with the Pit Orchestra Contractor and Artistic Director.Schedules Fire Watch if warranted by special effects.Oversees the overall safety of the production to ensure safe, organized, and efficient working conditions; communicates and implements Straz Center's standard operating procedures as they relate to safety, evacuation procedures, crisis communication, and security.Determines necessary alterations or additions to production elements to meet artistic vision.Compiles and delivers production settlement information.Internal EventsSupervises and coordinates all aspects of production on events, including compliance of the technical rider, as contracted.Acts as Stage Manager when necessary.Serves as liaison between visiting production personnel and Straz Center's technical, house, and Security staff members.Ensures that visiting Company's production needs are understood and fulfilled to the best of Straz Center's ability.Compiles and delivers production settlement information.Assists in producing weekly schedules for production crews.May temporarily perform some duties as Senior Director of Production, if necessary, in their absence.Assists Senior Director of Production with other duties as assigned.Supervisory Responsibility:This position provides oversight to local crew, house crew, and design teams. Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities): Outstanding interpersonal and organizational skills as well as a meticulous attention to detail. An industrious work ethic. A high level of computer proficiency, including the MS Office suite.An ability to work independently, under pressure in a multi-task environment, and as a dynamic and supportive part of a team. Experience drafting, editing, reading, and interpreting lighting plots, ground plans and construction drawings.Experience implementing technical riders, providing scrutiny and negotiation of production elements requested.Design knowledge in CAD, Vectorworks, or other design programs is an added asset for this position. Must have a valid Florida Driver License.Must be able to successfully complete a Level 2 background check*.Education and Work Experience: Bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience in the industry.Five to eight years of experience in the production industry.Physical Demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the functions.The nature of this job requires the employee to work on-site as a regular work routine.Work may require moving event materials or theatrical equipment weighing up to 40 lbs.Work regularly requires traversing the facility; approximately 50% of performance facility is reachable only by stairs or ladder.Work regularly requires ascending and descending narrow ladders between floors backstage.Ability to identify visual and auditory difficulties occurring during events/productions. Some work may be completed in low light areas and/or areas of restricted access.May operate electrical or sound equipment.Position occasionally requires work in areas where hazardous materials (e.g. spray paint or cleansers) are present.Work Environment: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the functions. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to high.* As a condition of employment and in compliance with Florida House Bill 531, the candidate(s) selected for this position are required to complete a Level 2 background screening through FLClearinghouse. Please use the following link to view more about the required screening: https://info.flclearinghouse.com. Failure to complete the screening or meet the requirements may result in disqualification from consideration.The David A. Straz, Jr. Center for the Performing Arts, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer committed to being an inclusive workplace and strongly believes in the importance of having a diverse group of individuals represented. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, gender identity, marital or veteran status, or any other protected class.Please visit our website at www.StrazCenter.org to learn more about the Straz Center.
Job Posted by ApplicantPro