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Theater Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Gardner Webb University

Adjunct Faculty

Shelby, NC · On-site

The Gardner-Webb University Department of Theatre Arts seeks a qualified adjunct instructor to teach Lighting Design in Spring 2024. Responsibilities include instruction (at least 50% of which must ...

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$42K

$114.5K

$201.5K

How much do theater design jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 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 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.

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 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 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.

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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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 33% Physical, and 67% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $114,491 per year, or $55 per hour.
Adjunct Teaching - Theatre & Media Arts - Theatre Stage Management Courses

Adjunct Teaching - Theatre & Media Arts - Theatre Stage Management Courses

Brigham Young University

Provo, UT • On-site

Part-time

Posted 23 days ago

Brigham Young University rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 86 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

261st of 529 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Job Title: Adjunct Teaching - Theatre & Media Arts - Theatre Stage Management Courses
Posting End Date: June 1, 2026
*NOTE: Last day to apply is Sunday, May 31, 2026, at 11:59pm (MST)
Position Start Date: August 24, 2026
Required Degree: Bachelor's degree, preferably in Theatre or a closely related field. The required degree must be completed by the start date.
Experience:
  • Professional or collegiate-level experience in stage management or production management.
  • Demonstrated understanding of theatre production processes and technical theatre practices.
  • Experience teaching stage management or related theatre technology courses at the college level.
  • Experience in one or more theatre design/technology disciplines (stage management, production management, scenic, lighting, costumes, sound, makeup, and/or media design).
  • Strong organizational, communication, and collaborative leadership skills.

Duties/Expectations:
  • Teach one or more of the following courses:
    • TMA 256: Stage Management
    • TMA 356: Assistant Stage Management
    • TMA 456: Production Stage Management
  • Mentor and supervise student stage managers throughout the production process.
  • Attend selected rehearsals and technical rehearsals to support student learning.
  • Collaborate on course syllabi and instructional materials consistent with department standards.
  • Perform limited administrative duties related to the stage management program as needed.

Documents Required at the Time of Application: Please attach the following to your faculty application:
  • Curriculum Vitae
  • Cover Letter
  • Mission Alignment Statement (instructions below)
  • Include a link to your professional portfolio (if available)
  • Contact information for three professional references (references may be contacted during the selection process to submit letters electronically)

Note: Failure to attach the required documents may result in your application not being considered.
This position requires the successful candidate to relocate and/or reside in Utah for the duration of their employment.
MISSION ALIGNMENT STATEMENT INSTRUCTIONS
If you are a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints:
BYU is committed to hiring faculty members who enthusiastically embrace and energetically advance its unique mission. To this end, please include a one-page mission alignment statement as part of your application that addresses how you might, as a BYU faculty member: (1) live a life of loyalty to Jesus Christ and His restored Church and align yourself with doctrine and teachings declared by living prophets, seers, and revelators; (2) demonstrate intentionality in building faith in Jesus Christ and testimony of His restored gospel among students and others in the BYU community; and (3) teach your subject matter with the Spirit of God and strive to keep it "bathed in the light and color of the restored gospel" (Spencer W. Kimball).
If you are not a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints:
Applicants who are not members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints include a one-page mission alignment statement that describes understanding of and commitment to the Mission of Brigham Young University and the AIMS of a BYU Education.
EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS
All new employees who are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints will be required to hold and be worthy to hold a current temple recommend. All employees are required to abide by the university's Honor Code and Dress & Grooming Standards. Preference is given to qualified candidates who are members in good standing of the affiliated church, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Successful candidates are expected to support and contribute to the academic and religious missions of the university within the context of the principles and doctrines of the affiliated church.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY
Brigham Young University is an equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veteran status.

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