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Stage Set Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Supervising Director

Bristol, CT · Remote

$168K - $225K/yr

... of set design, animation packages, show budgets and remote planning. • Has expert ability to ... Stage Managers. • Provides consistent and comprehensive feedback to Directors, Associate ...

Supervising Director

Bristol, CT · Remote

$168K - $225K/yr

Proficient with all aspects of set design, animation packages, show budgets and remote planning ... Builds monthly schedules for Directors, Associate Directors and Stage Managers. Identifies ...

Experiential Designer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$75 - $85/hr

Experience working in fast-paced R&D, set design, stage design, architectural or hardware development environments. * Experience designing, staging, or managing physical environments for data ...

New

Experiential Designer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$75 - $85/hr

Experience working in fast-paced R&D, set design, stage design, architectural or hardware development environments. * Experience designing, staging, or managing physical environments for data ...

New

Experiential Designer

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$75 - $85/hr

Experience working in fast-paced R&D, set design, stage design, architectural or hardware development environments. * Experience designing, staging, or managing physical environments for data ...

New

Showing results 41-60

Stage Set Design information

See salary details

$10

$57

$130

How much do stage set design jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 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 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.
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:

Infographic showing various Stage Set Design job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 77% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,893 per year, or $57.6 per hour.

Theatre Stage Technician (Continuous)

CSU Northridge

Northridge, OH • On-site

$21.47 - $31.27/hr

Full-time, Part-time, Temporary

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Theatre Stage Technician (Continuous)

Apply now Job no: 537684
Work type: Staff
Location: Northridge
Categories: Unit 9 - CSUEU - Technical Support Services, Temporary, Part Time, Theatre Arts

CSUN strives to be a destination workplace, where everyone understands that they belong to a community that is vital in advancing student success and providing exemplary service to all stakeholders. We foster an environment of success, both for our students and our employees. We have a relentless passion for celebrating diversity, equity, and inclusion as well as being an employer of choice. You will also have the opportunity to realize your own goals be recognized for the work you do, and enjoy the unique value the CSUN community can offer. If this sounds like you, you've come to the right place. Learn more: https://www.csun.edu/about-csun.

Major Duties

Under general supervision, the Theatre Stage Technician supports the production of theatre technical operations in stage carpentry for main stage productions and special events. The incumbent helps support the theatre stage technicians during the various student-run productions throughout the year. Responsible for: production carpentry-fabrication, load-in, and load-out; oversees and coordination labor teams to execute build schedule; interprets technical drawings and make fabrication/ install plans for individual scenic elements; produces welding and metal work. Performs other duties as assigned.

 

Qualifications

  • Equivalent to one to two years of experience working for a theater, repertory, or stock company engaged in the applicable production specialty such as costume construction, stage and set construction, lighting production, and/or sound/audio production or related field; or a combination of education and experience which provides the required knowledge and abilities.
  • Experience with Metal Inert Gas (MIG) welding, rigging, and Auto CAD preferred.

 

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

  • General knowledge of methods and problems related to applicable production specialty areas, working knowledge of design principles, and the ability to translate design specifications, blueprints, or drawings into applicable costume, scenery, lighting, and sound production.
  • Working knowledge of safety requirements and standards related to stage and set construction, lighting, and stage operations. Ability to assist in the training and supervision of students involved in productions.
  • Ability to identify and appropriate materials and supplies needed for projects and manage materials budgets for production specialty and specific projects.
  • Ability to read blueprints; working knowledge of carpentry and ability to apply knowledge to set and scenery construction; ability to mix and apply paint for sets and scenes; and ability to operate staging equipment.

Pay, Benefits, & Work Schedule

  • Classification: Performing Arts Technician I / 0840 / 1
  • The anticipated HIRING RANGE is 21.47 - $26.16 per hour, depending on qualifications and experience. The salary range for this classification is: $21.47 - $31.27 per hour.
  • HOURS: Intermittent, on-call; hours and schedule vary.
  • This is a Temporary position; end date to be determined.

 

General Information

  • Applications are currently being accepted to establish a Performing Arts Technician POOL. Applications for these on-call positions will be accepted on a continuing basis through June 30, 2025, or until an adequate amount of applications have been received.
  • A background check (including a criminal records check) must be completed satisfactorily. Failure to satisfactorily complete the background check may affect the application status of applicants or continued employment of current CSU employees who apply for the position.
  • The person holding this position may be considered a 'mandated reporter' under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and is required to comply with the requirements set forth in CSU Executive Order 1083 as a condition of employment.
  • In accordance with the California State University (CSU) Out-of-State Employment Policy, the CSU is a state entity whose business operations reside within the State of California and prohibits hiring employees to perform CSU-related work outside of California.
  • Please note: California State University, Northridge (CSUN) is not currently sponsoring staff or management positions for H-1B employment visas. Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the United States.
  • Candidates should apply by completing the CSUN on-line application. To submit an application and for more detailed information on the application and hiring process, please visit this link: www.csun.edu/careers
  • The CSU recommends that faculty, staff, and students who are accessing campus facilities at any university location be immunized against SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, and that all individuals who access any in-person program or activity (on- or off-campus) operated or controlled by the University follow COVID-19 vaccine recommendations adopted by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) applicable to their age, medical condition, and other relevant indications and comply with other safety measures established by each campus.

 

Equal Employment Opportunity

CSUN is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination on the basis of Age, Disability (physical or mental), Gender, Gender Identity (including Nonbinary or Transgender), Gender Expression, Genetic Information, Marital Status, Medical Condition, Nationality, Pregnancy or related conditions, Race or Ethnicity (including color, caste, or ancestry), Religion or Religious Creed, Sex (including Sex Stereotyping or Sex Characteristics), Sexual Orientation, and Veteran or Military Status. Our nondiscrimination policy is set forth in the Interim CSU Nondiscrimination Policy. Reasonable accommodations will be provided for applicants with disabilities who self-disclose by contacting Recruitment Services at 818-677-2101.

Advertised: Apr 08, 2024 (9:00 AM) Pacific Daylight Time
Applications close:

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