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Theatrical 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 ...

SeaWorld

Supervisor, Theatrical Services

Orlando, FL · On-site

$16 - $22.25/hr

Lead technical meetings and interface with design, construction and production staff. * Participate ... Direct the installation of theatrical equipment for events and permanent show installations.

Marylandconnect

Preferred qualifications include experience in more than one theatrical design area. Minimum Qualifications: MFA in Design (e.g., set, costume, lighting, etc.) with demonstrated interest in other ...

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Theatrical Design information

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$37K

$135.8K

$243K

How much do theatrical design jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for theatrical design in the United States is $135,763.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $109,500.00 and $163,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do theatre set designers get paid?

Theatre set designers typically earn between $30,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the scale of productions. Salaries can be higher for those working on major or commercial projects, and many designers also supplement income through freelance work or teaching design skills.

What does a theatrical designer do?

A theatrical designer creates visual concepts for stage productions, including sets, costumes, lighting, and projections, to support the director's vision. They collaborate with directors, producers, and technical teams, often using design software, and must understand the production's theme, budget, and technical constraints.

What is theatrical design?

Theatrical design refers to the creation and organization of the visual and sensory elements of a stage production, including scenery, costumes, lighting, and sound. Theatrical designers work closely with directors and other production staff to create a cohesive look and feel that enhances the storytelling and mood of the performance. Their work helps set the atmosphere, define characters, and guide the audience’s emotions throughout the show.

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

To thrive as a Theatrical Designer, you need expertise in visual arts, spatial awareness, and a relevant degree in theatre design or a related field. Familiarity with design software like AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite, as well as knowledge of stagecraft and lighting systems, is typically required. Creativity, collaboration, strong communication, and time management are vital soft skills for excelling in this role. These abilities are crucial for creating compelling stage environments that support storytelling and seamless production processes.

How much do theater designers make?

Theatrical designers, including set, costume, and lighting designers, typically earn between $40,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the scale of productions. Salaries can vary widely, with freelance designers often paid per project or day, and those working in major markets or on high-profile productions earning higher wages.

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

Theatrical designers often face the challenge of working within tight budgets and timelines while still creating visually compelling environments that support the director’s vision. Collaboration and clear communication with directors, technical teams, and other designers are key to overcoming these hurdles. Adapting to last-minute changes and problem-solving on the fly are also frequent aspects of the role. Building a strong portfolio and staying current with new materials and technologies can help designers stand out and advance in their careers.

What is the difference between Theatrical Design vs Costume Design?

AspectTheatrical DesignCostume Design
CredentialsDesign degrees, theater certificationsFashion or costume design degrees, theater certifications
Work EnvironmentTheater productions, stage settingsCostume departments, wardrobe departments
Industry UsageUsed in theater, film, TV productionsPrimarily in theater, film, TV for wardrobe
FocusOverall visual concept of the productionDesigning costumes for characters

While both Theatrical Design and Costume Design are integral to production aesthetics, Theatrical Design encompasses the overall visual concept, including scenery, lighting, and costumes. Costume Design specifically focuses on creating costumes that define characters and period accuracy. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the entertainment industry.

What can you do with a theatre design degree?

A theatre design degree prepares individuals for careers in scenic, costume, lighting, or projection design for live performances, film, or television. Graduates can work as designers, technical directors, or production managers, often using industry-standard tools like CAD software. The role involves collaboration with directors and production teams to create visual concepts that support the storytelling process.
What cities are hiring for Theatrical Design jobs? Cities with the most Theatrical Design job openings:
What states have the most Theatrical Design jobs? States with the most job openings for Theatrical Design jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Theatrical Design jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Theatrical Design jobs are:
Theatrical Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Theatrical Design job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $135,763 per year, or $65.3 per hour.
Theatre Arts and Technology Adjunct Instructor - Theatrical Design Fundamentals

Theatre Arts and Technology Adjunct Instructor - Theatrical Design Fundamentals

New Jersey Institute of Technology

Newark, NJ • On-site

Other

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Title:
Theatre Arts and Technology Adjunct Instructor - Theatrical Design Fundamentals
Department:
Theater
Reports To:
Director of Theatre
Position Type:
Faculty
Position Summary:
This position teaches our Theatrical Design Fundamentals class, which is an introduction into the process and techniques of design in the theatre, both conceptually and operationally. This continuum of the conceptual/cerebral understanding of the skills along with providing experience in the applied and experiential aspects of the design is foundational to the program's pedagogy. This class is best taught by a practicing professional designer with experience in multiple areas of design (scenic, lighting, costume, sound, props) who also has interest/experience in teaching. The course will be developed and taught by the instructor in consultation with the Director of the program. This position is on campus and teaches face-to-face.
Essential Functions:
Functions include, but are not limited to, training/educating students in appropriate skills and concepts, maintaining attendance records, employing creative pedagogy that effectively teaches students with varying backgrounds and skill sets, providing feedback that is clear and actionable so the student can progress throughout the semester, and submitting grades. The ideal candidate is a curious and creative problem solver, organized, and highly communicative.
Prerequisite Qualifications:
-MFA in Scenic Design (or similar degree) or equivalent experience.
-At least two years professional experience in two or more areas of theatrical design with a strong working knowledge in all areas of theatrical design.
-At the university's discretion, the education and experience prerequisites may be exempted where the candidate can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the university, an equivalent combination of education and experience specifically preparing the candidate for success in the position.
Preferred Qualifications:
-At least two years experience teaching and/or mentoring young designers.
-Prior teaching experience at the collegiate level.
Bargaining Unit:
AFT-UCAN
Salary Information:
In compliance with the NJ Pay Transparency Law, the rate for this position is $2668 per contact hour (USD). NJIT considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, as well as, market and organizational considerations when extending an offer. This pay range represents base pay only and excludes any additional items such as incentives, bonuses or other items.
FLSA:
Exempt
Part-Time
Special Instructions to Applicants:
Must have CV/Resume ( with both theater design and teaching experience included) and cover letter attached. Please emphasize your experience/understanding in multiple design fields.

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