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Studio Director Jobs in San Diego, CA (NOW HIRING)

Health Studio Leader

San Diego, CA · On-site

$152K - $179K/yr

Work with the Regional Director and the Market Director to ensure that marketing & sales budgets, revenue, and project performance targets are achieved and that studio issues are addressed. * Provide ...

Work with the Regional Director and the Market Director to ensure that marketing & sales budgets, revenue, and project performance targets are achieved and that studio issues are addressed. * Provide ...

Work with the Regional Director and the Market Director to ensure that marketing & sales budgets, revenue, and project performance targets are achieved and that studio issues are addressed. * Provide ...

Studio Manager

San Diego, CA · On-site

$65K - $93K/yr

Franchisor does not have any direct or indirect control over the franchised studio's employment practices. All inquiries about employment at this BODY20 ® franchised studio should be made directly ...

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Studio Director information

See San Diego, CA salary details

$15

$32

$83

How much do studio director jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for studio director in San Diego, CA is $32.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.38 and $33.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Studio Director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Studio Director, you need extensive experience in creative production management, leadership, and often a degree in film, media, or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as Adobe Creative Suite, project management tools, and knowledge of studio operations are typically required. Strong communication, problem-solving abilities, and team leadership are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure efficient project delivery, foster a collaborative studio environment, and drive creative excellence.

How does a Studio Director typically collaborate with creative and technical teams to achieve project goals?

A Studio Director plays a pivotal role in bridging creative vision and technical execution by regularly meeting with both creative leads and technical managers to align project objectives and timelines. They facilitate communication across departments, resolve resource allocation challenges, and ensure that both artistic quality and production efficiency are maintained. Studio Directors also provide mentorship, foster a collaborative culture, and address obstacles that could impede team progress, ensuring all teams work cohesively toward shared goals.

What does a Studio Director do?

A Studio Director is responsible for overseeing the operations, creative direction, and overall management of a studio, which can be in fields such as media production, design, or video games. They lead teams of artists, producers, and technical staff to ensure projects meet quality standards, deadlines, and budget requirements. Studio Directors also collaborate with clients or stakeholders, set long-term strategies, and are often involved in hiring and mentoring staff. Their role is crucial in shaping the culture and output of the studio.

What is the difference between Studio Director vs Studio Manager?

AspectStudio DirectorStudio Manager
CredentialsOften requires a degree in arts, business, or related fields; experience in leadership rolesTypically needs a background in arts or business; management experience preferred
Work EnvironmentOversees creative projects, staff, and operations in art, design, or production studiosManages daily studio operations, staff scheduling, and client relations
Industry UsageCommon in creative industries like film, design, and arts organizationsUsed across similar industries for operational oversight

The main difference is that a Studio Director focuses on strategic leadership, creative vision, and high-level management, while a Studio Manager handles daily operations, staff coordination, and client interactions. Both roles require management skills, but the Studio Director typically has a broader scope and higher-level responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Studio jobs in San Diego, CA? The most popular types of Studio jobs in San Diego, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Studio Director jobs in San Diego, CA? For Studio Director jobs in San Diego, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Studio Director jobs in San Diego, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Studio Director jobs in San Diego, CA are:
What cities near San Diego, CA are hiring for Studio Director jobs? Cities near San Diego, CA with the most Studio Director job openings:
Health Studio Leader

Health Studio Leader

SmithGroup

San Diego, CA • On-site

$152K - $179K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

SmithGroup is an integrated design firm with a reputation for cultivating a top-ranked culture while pioneering award-winning innovative design solutions. We blend research, data and technology with ingenuity and a creative spirit to deliver resilient, inclusive spaces that solve our clients' greatest challenges. Our teams create exceptional design solutions for healthcare, science and technology, workplace, mixed use, higher education, cultural, waterfront, parks and open spaces, and urban environments. We are looking for passionate problem solvers who want to elevate design, push boundaries and create a more resilient future.
The San Diego office of SmithGroup is looking for a Health Studio Leader to join our team.
Working with us, you will:
  • Be responsible for growing practice market share and net revenue in conjunction with the local office and corporate practice.
  • Provide leadership and management necessary for the development and growth of the studio consistent with SmithGroup's strategic themes of: growing the firm, building expertise, and designing holistically.
  • Maintain relationships with past clients and develop relationships with current/new clients and work closely with Business Development, Marketing, and market leaders to effectively market and grow our services.
  • Work with the Regional Director and the Market Director to ensure that marketing & sales budgets, revenue, and project performance targets are achieved and that studio issues are addressed.
  • Provide leadership and be actively involved in projects through all phases, from initial client contacts through marketing pursuits, sales efforts, contract negotiations, project kick-off, feasibility studies, strategic planning, master planning, programming, conceptual studies, schematic, design, design development, construction documentation, bidding and award, construction administration, move-in, follow-up, and on-going client relationship maintenance.
  • Provide leadership on a limited number of key projects as the principal-in-charge and be accountable for the financial performance of your own projects individually and the studio collectively.
  • Participate in recruiting, coaching, and career development of staff.
  • Be actively involved in professional, civic, or community activities that support the goals and core values of SmithGroup - passion, sustainability, equity, community, curiosity, and integrity.
  • Must be willing to relocate to the Los Angeles area as part of the role.

An ideal candidate has:
  • A professional degree in Architecture, Interior Design, Engineering, or equivalent combination of related experience and/or training.
  • 15+ years related experience preferred and/or training (or equivalent combination of education and experience) in the AE Industry.
  • Registration or licensure in relevant field; LEED AP preferred.
  • Proven leadership and demonstrated track record of winning work and growing market share in planning, renovation, or new construction projects.
  • Demonstrated effectiveness and a strong commitment to working in a team setting, delivering high client satisfaction and technical competence.
  • Strong leadership skills in the areas of business development; professional and civic involvement.
  • Strong business acumen and critical thinking skills in the pursuit of the work.
  • The ability to take responsibility and ownership to meet standards, budgets, schedules, and deadlines.
  • A high degree of self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and relationship management skills.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to travel 25-35%.

At SmithGroup, we are committed to helping our staff thrive with great projects and time to unwind. We offer flexible scheduling, a hybrid work environment, 3 weeks of PTO within your first year of employment with the option of purchasing additional time off, 8 paid federal holidays, plus 15 extra Fridays off! Our benefits plan includes medical, dental, and vision coverage, wellbeing resources, paid parental leave, a flex spending account and voluntary insurance options. We invest in your future through our 401(k) program with employer matching, tuition reimbursement program, one-on-one career coaching and professional development opportunities. While we may ultimately pay more or less than a posted salary range, at the time of posting the anticipated salary range for this position is $152,000 to $179,000 annually and you are eligible for a performance-based bonus each year. To be considered for this role, please create a profile and apply!
Equal Opportunity Employer
We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, genetic information, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected category under applicable federal, state, and local laws. If you require reasonable accommodation to complete this application, interview, or otherwise participate in the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to careers@smithgroup.com.