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Theater Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hoboken Public Schools

Theater Teacher 26/27

Hoboken, NJ · On-site

$49K - $66K/yr

Strong knowledge of acting, directing, theatrical design, and production practices. * Excellent classroom management and organizational skills. * A commitment to student growth, artistic excellence ...

Hoboken Public Schools

Theater Teacher 26/27

Hoboken, NJ · On-site

$49K - $66K/yr

Strong knowledge of acting, directing, theatrical design, and production practices. * Excellent classroom management and organizational skills. * A commitment to student growth, artistic excellence ...

Marylandconnect

Teach introductory theatre courses as well as introductory and specialized courses in one or more fields of design, including Costume Design, Set Design, Lighting Design and Sound Design. (as per ...

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$42K

$114.5K

$201.5K

How much do theater design jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for theater design in the United States is $114,491.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,500.00 and $144,000.00 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.
More about Theater Design jobs
What cities are hiring for Theater Design jobs? Cities with the most Theater Design job openings:
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What states have the most Theater Design jobs? States with the most job openings for Theater Design jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Theater Design jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Theater Design jobs are:
Theater Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Theater Design job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,491 per year, or $55 per hour.
Part-time Lecturer in Sound Design

Part-time Lecturer in Sound Design

The University of Chicago

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 9 days ago

University Of Chicago rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

135th of 560 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Description
The Theater and Performance Studies program at the University of Chicago invites applications for part-time Lecturers.
The selected candidate will have part-time teaching opportunities in the Theater and Performance Studies program, in the area of Sound Design. Responsibilities include preparing and teaching seminar- or workshop-style courses, holding regularly scheduled office hours, and preparing and grading of assignments and testing materials. Depending on the curricular needs of the program, the successful candidate may teach between one and two courses per academic year.
The terms and conditions of employment for this position are covered by a collective bargaining agreement between the University and Service Employees International Union. The per-course salary for academic year 2026-27 will be at least $9,193. This position is not benefits eligible.
Qualifications
Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree or equivalent in Theater, Design, or a related discipline; a master's degree or Ph.D. is strongly preferred. Applicants must have a minimum of three years of professional experience.
Application Instructions
Applications must include:
  • Current CV
  • Cover letter that addresses professional and teaching experience
  • Sample syllabi
  • The names and contact information of three references whose recommendation letters may be solicited

Optional materials:
  • Course evaluations, if available

The materials listed above must be submitted through the University of Chicago's Academic Recruitment site at the following link: apply.interfolio.com/186728. Applicants may be asked to provide additional materials following initial review.
In the event that a teaching opportunity becomes available, we will contact applicants with the academic training and experience most appropriate for our available classes. This posting will expire on March 31, 2027. This position is contingent upon budgetary approval. Only complete applications will be considered. For more information about this position, please contact Vicki Walden, Theater & Performance Studies, vwalden@uchicago.edu.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.
Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-834-3988 or email equalopportunity@uchicago.edu with their request.

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