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Theater Set Design Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

... Theater, has an opening for a skilled Event Coordinator. Responsibilities include, but are not ... Ensure that the equipment, physical set-up, and personnel provided meet the requirements of the ...

... Theater, has an opening for a skilled Event Coordinator. Responsibilities include, but are not ... Ensure that the equipment, physical set-up, and personnel provided meet the requirements of the ...

Sr. Software Architect

Scottsdale, AZ · On-site

$130K - $177K/yr

... theater - at some of the most iconic venues in the world. Since our founding in 2011, we've ... As a key member of our global architecture team, you'll set the vision for systems that power ...

Sr. Software Architect

Scottsdale, AZ

$130K - $177K/yr

... theater - at some of the most iconic venues in the world. Since our founding in 2011, we've ... As a key member of our global architecture team, you'll set the vision for systems that power ...

Print Production Associate

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

Merestone provides full-service creative design solutions for planning, designing, fabricating, and ... theatrical stage and scenic designs, broadcast set designs, graphic and theme development ...

Print Production Associate

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Merestone provides full-service creative design solutions for planning, designing, fabricating, and ... theatrical stage and scenic designs, broadcast set designs, graphic and theme development ...

Theater Set Design information

See Arizona salary details

$12

$28

$51

How much do theater set design jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for theater set design in Arizona is $28.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.81 and $41.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a theater set designer do in theater?

A theater set designer creates the visual environment for a production by designing and overseeing the construction of stage sets. They collaborate with directors and lighting designers to develop concepts, select materials, and ensure the set enhances the story and fits the venue. Proficiency in design software and understanding of stage mechanics are essential skills for this role.

What is the difference between Theater Set Design vs Scenic Artist?

AspectTheater Set DesignScenic Artist
Primary RoleDesigns and plans the overall look and layout of the stage setPaints and finishes the set pieces based on the designer’s plans
Skills & CredentialsDesign skills, knowledge of architecture, drafting, and stagecraftPainting, finishing techniques, artistic skills, often with scenic painting certifications
Work EnvironmentTheater production, design studios, rehearsalsWorkshop, on-site set construction, painting areas
Industry UsageUsed in theater, film, and television productions for creating visual environmentsPrimarily in theater and film for finishing and detailing set pieces

While Theater Set Designers create the overall concept and layout of the stage environment, Scenic Artists bring those designs to life through painting and finishing. Both roles are essential in the production process, often collaborating closely to ensure the visual vision is realized effectively.

What is theater set design?

Theater set design is the art and practice of creating the physical surroundings in which a stage play or performance takes place. Set designers collaborate with directors and other creative team members to establish the visual environment, mood, and atmosphere that support the storytelling of a production. They use elements like scenery, props, furniture, and backdrops to transform a stage and enhance the audience's experience. The process involves conceptualizing ideas, creating sketches or models, selecting materials, and overseeing the building and arrangement of the set.

How to get into theater set design?

To pursue a career in theater set design, develop skills in drawing, model-making, and familiarity with design software such as AutoCAD or SketchUp. Obtain a relevant degree in theater design, fine arts, or a related field, and gain experience through internships or assistant roles on productions to build a portfolio and industry connections.

What are some common challenges theater set designers face when working on a new production?

Theater set designers often encounter challenges such as working within tight budget constraints, adapting creative ideas to fit different stage sizes, and ensuring that sets are both visually impactful and functional for performers and crew. They must also coordinate closely with directors, lighting designers, and costume teams to maintain a cohesive vision while meeting practical needs like scene changes and actor safety. Flexibility and strong communication skills are essential to navigate last-minute script changes or technical issues that may arise during rehearsals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a theater set designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Theater Set Designer, you need a solid background in art, design, and spatial visualization, often supported by a degree in theater design, fine arts, or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, model-making, and stage construction techniques is typically required. Creativity, strong communication, and collaboration skills help you interpret scripts and work effectively with directors and production teams. These abilities are crucial for creating visually compelling and functional sets that enhance the audience's theatrical experience.
What are the most commonly searched types of Theater Set Design jobs in Arizona? The most popular types of Theater Set Design jobs in Arizona are:
What are popular job titles related to Theater Set Design jobs in Arizona? For Theater Set Design jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Theater Set Design job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,705 per year, or $28.7 per hour.

Musical Productions Assistant

Yavapai College

Prescott, AZ

$16/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Description of Position Working with Musical Productions at Yavapai College, perform duties that support either concerts or musical productions at Yavapai College: Set-Builders Build, paint/decorate, and move structures, such as concrete forms, scaffolds, tunnel, bridge, or supports, billboard signs, and temporary frame shelters, according to sketches, blueprints, or oral instructions. Set-designers Design sketches, blueprints, and/or or provide oral instructions to set-builders as determined by individual production needs. May also assist in the set-building duties as needed.

Choreographer: Plan out dance routines for musical productions Soloist: Somebody who performs a musical solo Instrumentalist: Person who plays a musical instrument individually or as part of a group Stage Manager: A person who acts as an assistant of the director of a play who supervises backstage activities Minimum Expectations & Requirements - High school diploma or GED equivalent - At least one year of work experience in musical productions, theater, or related field - Experience with reading music - General use and safety knowledge of primary power tools - Regular attendance as scheduled is an essential job function as it demonstrates dependability towards the performance of job duties Preferred Skills & Abilities - Previous experience with set-building/set-design - Education and/or experience above the minimum required - Work experience in a community college/higher education work environment. Essential Functions To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements and competencies listed are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Physical Demands The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit and talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel and reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to stand and walk.

The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision. Work Environment The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet.