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Temporary Theatre Set Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... theater and public events productions. This is a part-time, temporary position that will be ... Skill in the interpretation of blueprints and set designs. * Skill in oral and written ...

A set designer is in charge of designing and creating the sets that appear in films and television programmes as well as in the theatre. The role involves working with and communicating with ...

New

A set designer is in charge of designing and creating the sets that appear in films and television programmes as well as in the theatre. The role involves working with and communicating with ...

$18 - $22/hr

A set designer is in charge of designing and creating the sets that appear in films and television programmes as well as in the theatre. The role involves working with and communicating with ...

New

Junior Set Designer

Austin, TX ยท On-site

$15 - $16/hr

A set designer is in charge of designing and creating the sets that appear in films and television programmes as well as in the theatre. The role involves working with and communicating with ...

New

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Technical Director/Set Designer/Stagecraft Teacher Reports to: DEPARTMENT CHAIR Manager: PRINCIPAL ... A. or higher equivalent degree in Technical Theatre, Theatrical Production, or related field. ยท ...

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Temporary Theatre Set Designer information

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$43

How much do temporary theatre set designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for temporary theatre set designer in the United States is $23.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.71 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Temporary Theatre Set Designer do?

A Temporary Theatre Set Designer is responsible for designing and creating the physical scenery and environments for theatrical productions on a short-term or project-specific basis. They collaborate with directors, producers, and other creative team members to ensure that the set aligns with the overall vision of the show. Their work includes developing design concepts, preparing sketches or models, selecting materials, and overseeing the construction and installation of sets. Temporary positions may be filled to cover busy production seasons, specific shows, or to provide specialized expertise for a limited period.

What is the difference between Temporary Theatre Set Designer vs Scenic Artist?

AspectTemporary Theatre Set DesignerScenic Artist
CredentialsDesign degree, theater production experienceArt or scenic painting background, technical skills
Work EnvironmentTheater productions, rehearsal spacesPaint shops, theater sets, on-site during installation
Industry UsageDesigning and planning set layoutsPainting and finishing set elements

The Temporary Theatre Set Designer focuses on creating the overall visual concept and layout of the set, working closely with directors and production teams. Scenic Artists, on the other hand, specialize in painting and finishing the physical set pieces. Both roles are essential in theater production, often collaborating but with distinct responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Temporary Theatre Set Designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Temporary Theatre Set Designer, you need strong artistic ability, spatial awareness, and a background in theatre design or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree or portfolio. Proficiency with design software such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, or Adobe Creative Suite, as well as familiarity with stagecraft and construction materials, is typically required. Exceptional creativity, time management, and the ability to collaborate under pressure are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills are crucial for delivering visually compelling and practical set designs within tight timelines and dynamic production environments.

What are some common challenges faced by a Temporary Theatre Set Designer when joining a new production team?

As a Temporary Theatre Set Designer, one of the main challenges is quickly adapting to the established workflow and creative vision of a new production team. You'll need to rapidly build rapport with directors, stage managers, and technical crews, often with limited time to get up to speed on the project's artistic direction and logistical constraints. Balancing creative input while respecting tight budgets and production schedules is essential. Flexibility and strong communication skills are key to effectively collaborating and ensuring your designs align with the overall goals of the show.
More about Temporary Theatre Set Designer jobs
What cities are hiring for Temporary Theatre Set Designer jobs? Cities with the most Temporary Theatre Set Designer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Theatre Set Designer jobs? The most popular types of Theatre Set Designer jobs are:
What states have the most Temporary Theatre Set Designer jobs? States with the most job openings for Temporary Theatre Set Designer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Temporary Theatre Set Designer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 87% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,320 per year, or $23.7 per hour.
Temporary Theater Technician

Temporary Theater Technician

Chess

San Jose, CA

$18.54/hr

Part-time

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Compensation:

$18.54 per hour, up to 29 hours per week

CompensationType:

Non-Exempt

Employment Type:

Temporary (Fixed Term)

Grade:

NE06

Position Summary

This position is responsible for providing technical support for theater and public events productions. This is a part-time, temporary position that will be scheduled as needed based on scheduled events.
San Juan College is committed to building a diverse faculty and staff, and is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We seek an individual invested in equity and inclusiveness, who has experience with, knowledge of, and sensitivity to the needs of diverse populations.

MAJORDUTIES

  • Provides technical support for productions in the Performance Hall, Connie Gotch Theatre, and Black Box Theatre.

  • Maintains and coordinates stage equipment; transports equipment across campus.

  • Designs and participates in all aspects of stage production.

  • Provides service to vendors.

  • Provides technical theater students with training in the use of technical equipment.

  • Provides support for the regional high school theatre festival.

  • Performs related duties.


KNOWLEDGEREQUIREDBYTHEPOSITION

  • Knowledge of stage rigging.

  • Knowledge of college and department policies and procedures.

  • Knowledge of lighting equipment and design.

  • Knowledge of set design principles.

  • Knowledge of the operation and maintenance of technical theatre equipment.

  • Knowledge of computers and job-related software programs.

  • Skill in prioritizing and organizing work.

  • Skill in the construction of sets.

  • Skill in the interpretation of blueprints and set designs.

  • Skill in oral and written communication.


SUPERVISORYCONTROLS
The Fine Arts and Special Events Director assigns work in terms of general instructions. The supervisor spot-checks completed work for compliance with procedures, accuracy, and the nature and propriety of the final results.
GUIDELINES


Guidelines include material safety data sheets,OSHAregulations, and college and department policies and procedures. These guidelines are generally clear and specific, but may require some interpretation in application.
COMPLEXITY/SCOPEOFWORK

  • The work consists of related technical duties. Strict deadlines contribute to the complexity of the position.

  • The purpose of this position is to provide technical support for theatre productions and events at the Fine Arts Center. Successful performance contributes to the success of those productions.


CONTACTS

  • Contacts are typically with co-workers, other college employees, students, vendors, performers, high school students, and the general public.

  • Contacts are typically to give or exchange information, resolve problems, and provide services.


PHYSICALDEMANDS/WORKENVIRONMENT

  • The work is typically performed while standing, walking, bending, crouching or stooping. The employee frequently lifts heavy objects, climbs ladders, uses tools or equipment requiring a high degree of dexterity, distinguishes between shades of color, and utilizes the sense of smell.

  • The work is typically performed in a theatre. The employee may be exposed to noise, dust, dirt, grease, and machinery with moving parts. Work may be performed outdoors, occasionally in cold or inclement weather. Work required the use or protective devices such as masks, goggles, gloves, etc.


SUPERVISORYANDMANAGEMENTRESPONSIBILITY
This position supervises assigned work study students.

MINIMUMQUALIFICATIONS
  • Knowledge and level of competency commonly associated with completion of specialized training in the field of work, in addition to basic skills typically associated with a high school education.

  • Sufficient experience to understand the basic principles relevant to the major duties of the position, usually associated with the completion of an apprenticeship/ internship or having had a similar position for one to two years.

  • Possession of or ability to readily obtain a valid driver's license issued by the State of New Mexico for the type of vehicle or equipment operated.


VALUESSTATEMENT
San Juan College is committed to serving the needs of our students through a process of continuous quality improvement. We uphold and affirm the following iCARE values:


Innovation
Collaboration
Accountability
Respect
Excellence

EEO STATEMENT: San Juan College is dedicated to providing equal employment and educational opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, genetic, veteran's status, or on the basis of any other category protected under federal, state and local laws.