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Theater Design Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

SUNY Geneseo

Adjunct Lecturer - Theatre

Geneseo, NY · On-site

THEA 241 Fundamentals of Design for the Theatre * THEA 254 History of Western Costume Since the 18th Century Required Qualifications Required Qualifications: * Master's degree or higher in Theatre or ...

Source Medical, LLC.

Neurology Physician

Rochester, NY

$144.23 - $192.31/hr

Our center will be fully operational by mid-2025, and you ll have direct input on its design and ... GeVa Theater Center, Rochester International Jazz Festival, as well as easy access to Manhattan ...

All JobsTheater Design JobsTheater Design Jobs in Rochester, NY

Theater Design information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$41.4K

$113K

$198.8K

How much do theater design jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for theater design in Rochester, NY is $112,965.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,400.00 and $142,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is theater design?

Theater design is the art and practice of creating the visual and physical environment for a stage production. This includes designing sets, lighting, costumes, props, and sometimes sound, to help tell the story and create the mood of the performance. Theater designers collaborate closely with directors, actors, and other production staff to ensure that the visual elements support the narrative and themes of the play. Their work is essential in immersing the audience in the world of the production.

What can you do with a theatre design degree?

A theatre design degree prepares individuals for careers in designing stage sets, costumes, lighting, and sound for theatrical productions. Graduates can work as set designers, costume designers, lighting designers, or production designers, often collaborating with directors and technical teams. Skills in CAD software, creativity, and understanding of theatrical production are essential in this field.

How do you become a theater designer?

To become a theater designer, individuals typically pursue a bachelor's degree in theater design, stage design, or a related field, gaining skills in set construction, drafting, and computer-aided design (CAD). Gaining experience through internships or assistant roles on productions helps build a portfolio and industry connections, which are essential for securing full-time positions in theater design.

What is the difference between Theater Design vs Scenic Design?

AspectTheater DesignScenic Design
CredentialsDegree in Theater, Design, or related fieldDegree in Theater, Fine Arts, or Design
Work EnvironmentTheater productions, performance venuesTheater, film, television, live events
Industry UsageUsed broadly in theater productionFocuses on visual scenery for performances
Common Search/ComparisonOften compared with Scenic DesignRelated but more specialized in scenery creation

While Theater Design encompasses the overall conceptualization of a production's visual and spatial elements, Scenic Design specifically focuses on creating the physical scenery and backdrops. Both roles require similar credentials and often collaborate closely, but Scenic Design is more specialized in visual scenery creation for various performance types.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in theater design, and how can they be addressed?

One common challenge in theater design is balancing creative vision with practical constraints such as budget, time, and the technical limitations of a venue. Designers often need to collaborate closely with directors, lighting technicians, and set builders to ensure their concepts are feasible and safe for performers. Effective communication, flexibility, and problem-solving skills are essential to adapt and deliver impactful designs under tight production schedules. Networking and seeking mentorship within the industry can also provide valuable support and guidance for overcoming these challenges.

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

To thrive as a Theater Designer, you need a solid background in set, lighting, or costume design, typically supported by a degree in theater design or a related field. Proficiency with design software such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite, as well as familiarity with stagecraft and technical theater systems, is highly valued. Creativity, collaboration, and strong communication skills help you translate scripts into engaging visual environments and work effectively with directors and production teams. These skills are essential for crafting immersive theatrical experiences that support storytelling and meet production requirements.

How much do theater designers make?

Theater designers typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects. Senior or highly experienced designers working on large productions can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $100,000. Many theater designers also work freelance or on a contract basis, which can affect income levels.

What does a designer do in theatre?

A theatre designer creates visual and functional elements for stage productions, including set, costume, and lighting designs. They collaborate with directors and production teams to develop concepts, often using design software and attending rehearsals to ensure the designs support the story and mood of the performance.
What are popular job titles related to Theater Design jobs in Rochester, NY? For Theater Design jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Theater Design jobs in Rochester, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Theater Design jobs in Rochester, NY are:
Theater Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Theater Design job openings in Rochester, NY as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,965 per year, or $54.3 per hour.
Adjunct Lecturer - Theatre

Adjunct Lecturer - Theatre

SUNY Geneseo

Geneseo, NY • On-site

Part-time

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Vacancy Announcement
Position Information
Campus Title
Adjunct Lecturer - Theatre
Department
Theatre & Dance
Position Summary
SUNY Geneseo seeks applicants for anticipated part-time temporary adjunct faculty openings. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis and applicants will be contacted as needed.
Teach undergraduate courses in Theatre. Possible courses include:
  • THEA 100 Introduction to Theatre
  • THEA 129 Stagecraft
  • THEA 130 Introduction to Technical Theatre
  • THEA 140 Play Analysis
  • THEA 202 History of Theatre to the 17th Century
  • THEA 203 History of the Theatre Since the 17th Century
  • THEA 221 Acting I
  • THEA 224 Acting Techniques (subtitle)
  • THEA 233 Stage Make-up
  • THEA 234 History of Western Costume through the 18th Century
  • THEA 241 Fundamentals of Design for the Theatre
  • THEA 254 History of Western Costume Since the 18th Century

Required Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
  • Master's degree or higher in Theatre or related field.
  • Must demonstrate a commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive teaching environment.

Preferred Qualifications

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