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Stage Set Design Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Director of Turbomachinery

Seattle, WA · On-site

$225K - $275K/yr

Set Technical Direction: Define the aero-thermal design philosophy and architecture for turbines ... Drive turbomachinery development from early-stage sizing and trade studies through detailed design ...

Our aviation project capabilities span the full spectrum; from securing funding and early-stage ... Demonstrates ability to predict and deliver individual tasks within a set level of effort.

Our aviation project capabilities span the full spectrum; from securing funding and early-stage ... Demonstrates ability to predict and deliver individual tasks within a set level of effort.

Showing results 21-40

Stage Set Design information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$11

$65

$148

How much do stage set design jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for stage set design in Seattle, WA is $65.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55.82 and $70.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 a degree 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 valuable for creating detailed plans and visualizations.

What do stage set designers get paid?

Stage set designers typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of productions. Salaries can vary widely for freelance designers and those working on large-scale projects or in major markets.

What does a stage set design do?

A stage set designer creates the visual environment for a performance by designing and building scenery, backdrops, and props that support the story and mood. They collaborate with directors and lighting designers, use tools like CAD software, and often work within tight schedules to ensure the set is functional and visually appealing. Their work helps transform the stage and enhances the audience's experience.

What are popular job titles related to Stage Set Design jobs in Seattle, WA?

For Stage Set Design jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Stage Set Design jobs in Seattle, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Stage Set Design jobs in Seattle, WA are:

Infographic showing various Stage Set Design job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $136,442 per year, or $65.6 per hour.

Senior Design Manager - Rail

Americas Region

Seattle, WA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Joining Arup  

Arup's purpose, shared values, and collaborative approach have set us apart for over 80 years, guiding how we shape a better world. 
We collaborate with public and private sector clients to unlock the transformative potential of railways. We offer a broad range of services spanning planning, design, delivery, systems integration, assurance, safety and security assessments, and optimization of railway operation and maintenance performance to unlock the financial value for investors, asset owners, operators and maintainers, while navigating the transition to low carbon and resilient rail. You would be joining our multidisciplinary team focusing on technical excellence and innovative solutions that shape a better future for people and the planet.

Given our continued growth, Arup is seeking an experienced Design Manager to join our rail team in Seattle and support a portfolio of major rail and transit infrastructure programs across the western United States. You may act as a deputy to the design manager, supporting the design development of a complex project; package lead with ownership of a design package through procurement; or design manager for a small- to mid-sized project. This role is well suited to a collaborative professional looking to grow in in a stimulating and challenging project environment while contributing to complex, highprofile infrastructure programs.

The Design Manager will support the leadership and coordination of multidisciplinary design teams on large rail projects, working closely with the project leadership, technical leads, contractor, and agency. The role supports planning, coordination, and quality processes on design projects where Arup serves as Prime Consultant, helping ensure design outputs are delivered efficiently, collaboratively, and in alignment with client objectives.

The Opportunity  

  • Support the Project Management team in the planning and delivery of multidisciplinary design packages on major rail projects, including scope definition, scheduling, resourcing, and progress tracking.
  • Work closely with the Arup Design Manager to communicate design progress and issues and escalate where required 
  • Coordinate multidisciplinary design teams across multiple technical disciplines to support integrated design delivery and alignment with project objectives.
  • Support the coordination of Arup-specialist inputs (fire, facades, acoustics, security, assurance) into the design;
  • Assist in the Integration Manager in overseeing design interfaces, risks, and issues, tracking actions and supporting timely resolution of technical and coordination decisions.
  • Lead the delivery of project drawings, reports and specifications to ensure production of deliverables to agreed timelines and within budget.
  • Support packagelevel design delivery, including coordination of design activities, procurement inputs, and construction interface support.
  • Lead design coordination workshops and formal stage reviews with technical disciplines.
  • Arrange, attend and record client and stakeholder design presentations.
  • Facilitate collaboration between clients, contractors, and consultants, including participation in user groups and stakeholder meetings.
  • Help monitor schedule, cost, and performance for assigned design packages, escalating risks and opportunities as appropriate.
  • Coordinate communication and information flow across the design team to support efficient, wellinformed decisionmaking.
  • Support design quality management processes to ensure outputs meet agreed standards, contractual requirements, and client expectations.
  • Verify formatting, language and grammar of high quality reports and presentations;
  • Assist with design reporting, governance, and project controls activities in line with project and client requirements.
  • Contribute to business development activities, including client engagement, marketing coordination, and support for bids and proposals.

At Arup, you belong to an extraordinary collective - in which we encourage individuality to thrive. Our strength comes from how we respect, share and connect our diverse experiences, perspectives and ideas.  

You will have the opportunity to do socially useful work that has meaning - to Arup, to your career, to our members and to the clients and communities we serve.

Is this role right for you?

  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Engineering or a related field, with 5-10 years of experience supporting the delivery of complex rail or transit projects in a multidisciplinary environment.
  • Experience of design management and coordination on large infrastructure projects, with a passion for design and an appreciation of all disciplines' roles within the design process.
  • Strong understanding of rail and transit project delivery, including client drivers, governance, procurement approaches, and designbuild or alternative delivery methods.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead and coordinate multidisciplinary design teams, fostering collaboration, effective decisionmaking, and highquality design outcomes.
  • Experience managing the review, production and submission of high-quality deliverables across many disciplines in a large project environment.
  • Excellent communication and organizational skills, with experience engaging clients, stakeholders, and project teams throughout the design and delivery lifecycle.

Please note that all applicants must apply directly via the job portal.If this role is not quite what you are looking for, but you are interested in other opportunities for a future with purpose, please sign up to ourTalent Communitywhere you will be kept up to date with roles suitable for you to shape a better world.

What we offer you 

At Arup, we care about each member's success, so we can grow together. 

Guided by our values, we provide an attractive total reward package that recognizes the contribution of each of our members to our shared success. As well as competitive, fair and equitable pay, we offer a career in which all of our members can belong, grow and thrive - through benefits that support health and wellbeing, a wide range of learning opportunities and many possibilities to have an impact through the work they do.  

We are owned in trust on behalf of our members, giving us the freedom, with personal responsibility, to set our own direction and choose work that aligns with our purpose and adds to Arup's legacy. Our members collaborate on ambitious projects to deliver remarkable outcomes for our clients and communities. Profit Share is a key part of our reward, enabling members to share in the results of our collective efforts.  

Benefits at Work - At Arup, we have a comprehensive and valuable benefits program that works for our employees and their families while keeping costs low. These benefits provide health and welfare security for you as well as paid time off for rest and renewal. As a member of Arup, everyone shares in our success through a global profit share scheme (payments are dependent on the firm's financial performance). Our Global Profit Share Plan (paid bi-annually) provides an opportunity for you to share in the success of the Firm. As a valued employee of Arup, you can also choose to participate in our 401(k) plan with up to 10% company match to help you save for your future 

Flexible Working - We believe that flexible arrangements create a more inclusive way of working that supports our diversity and the wellbeing of our people. Options for alternative schedules and the ability to work outside of the office for a portion of your workweek are available 

Seattle Hiring Range - Hiring Range - The good faith base salary hiring range for this job if performed in Seattle is $140,000 to $160,000 per year. This range is commensurate with experience, educational background, and skill level. Benefits are not included in the base salary. Please note hiring ranges for candidates performing work outside of Seattle will differ.  

Different People, Shared Values 
Arup is an equal opportunity employer that actively promotes and nurtures a diverse and inclusive workforce. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, regardless of age (within legal limits), gender identity or expression, marital status, disability, neurotype or mental health, race or ethnicity, faith or belief, sexual orientation, socioeconomic background, and whether you're pregnant or on family leave. We are an open environment that embraces diverse experiences, perspectives, and ideas - this drives our excellence.  
Guided by our values and alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, we create and contribute to equitable spaces and systems, while cultivating a sense of belonging for all. Our internal employee networks support our inclusive culture: from race, ethnicity and cross-cultural working to gender equity and LGBTQ+ and disability inclusion - we aim to create a space for you to express yourself and make a positive difference. Discover more about life at Arup at www.arup.com/careers/your-life-at-arup.  

Our Application Process 

We will be reviewing our candidates for this position on a rolling basis. Once you have applied you will be evaluated and potentially moved on to the next round, at which point a member of the talent resourcing team will reach out to you directly. 

Arup is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, spouse of a protected veteran, or disability.

Stay safe online. Recruitment fraud is on the rise, and Arup's name, logo, and branding have been used in fraudulent job advertisements. Arup will never ask for bank information as part of our recruitment process. 

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