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Stage Set Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The ideal candidate will have a solid foundation in cinematic set design, spatial composition, and ... Ability to troubleshoot and optimize Rhino files for fabrication, 3D printing, or stage use.

The ideal candidate will have a solid foundation in cinematic set design, spatial composition, and ... Ability to troubleshoot and optimize Rhino files for fabrication, 3D printing, or stage use.

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Stage Set Design information

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$10

$57

$130

How much do stage set design jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for stage set design in the United States is $57.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49.04 and $62.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 does a set stage designer do?

A set stage designer creates the visual environment for theatrical, film, or television productions by designing and planning the scenery, props, and backgrounds. They collaborate with directors and production teams to develop concepts, often using design software and constructing models, to ensure the set aligns with the production's vision and technical requirements.

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 much do theatre set designers get paid?

Theatre set designers typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the scale of productions. Entry-level designers may start lower, while experienced professionals working on major productions can earn higher salaries, often supplemented by freelance work or union benefits.

How to become a stage set designer?

To become a stage set designer, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in theater design, scenic design, or a related field. Gaining experience through internships or assistant roles, developing skills in drafting, painting, and using design software like AutoCAD or SketchUp, and building a strong portfolio are essential steps in entering the profession.

What is the highest paid design job?

In stage set design, senior roles such as Production Designer or Lead Scenic Designer tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding $80,000 annually, especially with extensive experience and working on large productions. High-level professionals may also earn additional income through consulting, licensing, or working on high-budget projects, but overall, executive or creative director positions in design fields generally command the highest pay.
More about Stage Set Design jobs
What cities are hiring for Stage Set Design jobs? Cities with the most Stage Set Design job openings:
What states have the most Stage Set Design jobs? States with the most job openings for Stage Set Design jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Stage Set Design jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Stage Set Design jobs are:
Infographic showing various Stage Set Design job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 95% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,893 per year, or $57.6 per hour.
COTA Lead Performing Arts Tech II - Hourly/Intermittent POOL (COTA)

COTA Lead Performing Arts Tech II - Hourly/Intermittent POOL (COTA)

California State University

Long Beach, CA

$23.83 - $34.71/hr

Other

Posted 16 days ago


California State University rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 44 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

216th of 537 rated colleges and universities


Job description

COTA Lead Performing Arts Tech II - Hourly/Intermittent POOL (COTA)

Apply now Job no: 554199
Work type: Staff
Location: Long Beach
Categories: Unit 9 - CSUEU - Technical Support Services, Temporary, Part Time, Theatre Arts

Job Summary

This position provides technical support for performances, rehearsals, and other events in the College of the Arts.

Key Responsibilities
  • Serves as liaison between Senior Technical Lead and Production Lead, during rehearsals and performances
  • Operates and maintains lighting, sound, and recording systems for events in COTA.
  • Provides stage set-up, including movement of equipment, chairs, stands, risers, platforms, and shells.  Also setting up of sounds and recording equipment.
  • Management of audience and house; supervision of usher crew
  • Interacts with client group and respond to event needs.
Knowledge Skills and Abilities
  • Independent performance of more complex projects in production specialty, including planning, organizing and construction/implementation for one or more productions. Work typically involves handling multiple priorities.
  • Work is performed independently with limited creative or technical direction. Approaches to projects and priorities usually are determined independently.
  • Ongoing coordination with faculty involved in the productions is central to work. Provides direct lab support to students involved in productions.
  • Thorough and specialized knowledge and experience in applicable production specialty. More sophisticated knowledge of design theory and principles to be able to translate design specifications, blueprints or drawings into costume, scene, lighting or sound production and effects.
  • Ability to independently manage production support projects and productions by breaking segments into working units that coincide with production needs.
  • Ability to work on more complex projects/designs and to work with more difficult materials and equipment, including the ability to select and use the most appropriate materials to meet production needs.
  • Ability to use more complex features of applicable software packages for production specialty. Ability to plan the layout and use of work areas.
  • Thorough knowledge of safety requirements and standards related production support specialty and stage operations and ability to train others in safety measures and ensure compliance with codes and regulations.

Ability to communicate with an ethnically and culturally diverse campus community.  Ability to follow all university policies, procedures, and guidelines including but not limited to safety, civility, information security, and non-discrimination policies and procedures.  Ability to contribute to a positive university experience for each and every student and assist in achieving the university's commitment to a "vision of excellence."

Education and Experience

Equivalent to 24 semester units of related college coursework and two years of related professional or technical experience required. Experience in operating stage equipment. Knowledge of stage construction and set design, types, and uses of lighting, sound counterweight, and other stage equipment. Knowledge of sound reinforcement, recording, and editing.

Division

College of the Arts

Compensation

The salary range for this classification is $23.83 to $34.71 per hour.

Time Base

Hourly/intermittent on-call temporary position. Temporary appointments may be cancelled at any time. Successful candidates may be appointed for a few days and up to one (1) year depending on the assignment. Temporary assignments may expire prior to the ending date.

Classification

Performing Arts Technician II

Application Procedures

Click Apply Now to complete the CSULB Online Employment Application.

Additional Information

CSULB is not a sponsoring agency for staff and management positions (i.e. H-1B Visas).

A background check (including a criminal records check) must be completed satisfactorily and is required for employment. CSU will make a conditional offer of employment, which may be rescinded if the background check reveals disqualifying information, and/or it is discovered that the candidate knowingly withheld or falsified information. Failure to satisfactorily complete the background check may affect the continued employment of a current CSU employee who was conditionally offered the position.

California State University Long Beach expects respectful, professional behavior from its employees in all situations. Acts of harassment or abusive conduct are prohibited. Demonstrated appropriate professional behavior, treating others with civility and respect, and refusing to tolerate abusive conduct is expected of all employees.

Equal Employment Statement

Consistent with California law and federal civil rights laws, CSULB provides equal opportunity in employment without unlawful discrimination or preferential treatment based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, national origin, or other protected status. CSULB complies with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the California Equity in Higher Education Act, California's Proposition 209 (Art. I, Section 31 of the California Constitution), other applicable state and federal anti-discrimination laws, and CSU's Nondiscrimination Policy. We prohibit discriminatory preferential treatment, segregation based on race or any other protected status, and all forms of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation in all university programs, policies, and practices.

Accommodations

We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact StaffHR-Accommodations@csulb.edu.

Out of State Employment Policy

California State University, Long Beach, as part of the CSU system, is a State of California Employer. As such, the University requires all employees upon date of hire to reside in the State of California.

As of January 1, 2022 the CSU Out-of-State Employment Policy prohibits the hiring of employees to perform CSU-related work outside the state of California.

Advertised: Jan 01 2026 Pacific Standard Time
Applications close: Dec 31 2026 Pacific Standard Time

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About California State University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

California State University, Fresno is one of 23 campuses in the California State University System. The University's mission is to boldly educate and empower students for success through our values of Discovery, Diversity and Distinction. The current student population is more than 25,000, including a large percentage of students with diverse and culturally rich backgrounds. The University serves the San Joaquin Valley while maintaining deep involvement with the state, nation, and across the globe.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Long Beach, CA, US