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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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How much do theater design jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a theater designer?

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 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 can you do with a theater design degree?

A theater design degree prepares individuals for careers in designing sets, costumes, lighting, and sound for theatrical productions, concerts, and events. Graduates often work as scenic designers, costume designers, lighting designers, or technical directors, utilizing skills in CAD software and understanding of stagecraft. The role involves collaboration with directors and production teams to create visually compelling performances.

What does a theater design do?

A theater designer creates the visual and functional aspects of a theater space, including stage layouts, seating arrangements, lighting, and acoustics. They collaborate with directors and technical teams to ensure the design supports the production's artistic vision and technical requirements, often using design software like CAD. Strong knowledge of architecture, acoustics, and stage mechanics is essential for this role.
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theater design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Theater Design job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,491 per year, or $55 per hour.

Credit Adjunct Faculty - Theater Arts

Harford Community College

Bel Air, MD • On-site

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Posting Details
Position Information
Job Title
Credit Adjunct Faculty - Theater Arts
Posting Category
Adjunct Faculty/Part-time Instructor
Starting salary range or starting hourly rate range
$1,149.20 per lecture credit hour; $861.90 per lab credit hour
Classification Title
About Harford Community College
Harford Community College (HCC) has been a vital part of Harford County since 1957. As a mid-sized, comprehensive institution, we're committed to delivering high-quality education and cultural enrichment to our community. Our mission is to provide relevant, accessible education and training that connects individuals to opportunities in an ever-evolving world. As an Achieving the Dream institution, HCC is part of a national network dedicated to enhancing student success in community colleges. To learn more about our vision and values, visit our website.
Affirmative Action and Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Harford Community College is committed to the principles of Affirmative Action and Equal Employment Opportunity. It is the policy of Harford Community College not to discriminate against applicants on the basis of sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religious creed, national origin, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law with regard to any employment practices. HCC is an EEO and ADA/ADAA employer, including disability and protected veteran status.
Benefits
Job Description
Harford Community College is seeking qualified adjunct faculty members to teach on-campus, online, and/or hybrid classes in subjects including:
  • Acting
  • Technical Theater
  • Theater Design

Employees of Harford Community College, including instructors for online and virtual courses, must be residents of Maryland or the contiguous states of Delaware, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, or the District of Columbia. Work is generally performed on the College campus unless otherwise specified.
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States, as the College does not offer Visa sponsorship for this position.
Your application to this position will remain active until December 31 of the current year. If you are not selected by that time, you must reapply to be considered. If you apply on or after November 1 of the current year, your application will remain active until December 31 of the following calendar year.
Required Education
A Master's degree in the subject or a closely-related subject. A Bachelor's degree and industry experience may be considered for some areas of study.
Required Experience
Required Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities
Preferred Qualifications
Prior teaching experience preferred. Professional experience in the discipline a plus. Prior experience using a Learning Management System (LMS). Prior experience with classroom technology.
General Weekly Work Schedule
Schedule varies per assignment.
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
2026-023AO
Open Date
Close Date
12/31/2026
Open Until Filled
No
Special Instructions to Applicants

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