Career Corner

Set Stage Designer

Description of Responsibilities
Set and stage designers produce backdrops, signs, props, and scenic effects for movie, television, and theater productions. They work alongside art directors and costume designers in the planning process. Set and stage designers also work with architects and engineers to oversee the building of sets, and they sometimes produce sketches or scale models to guide the construction of the sets. For traveling productions, these artists must consider how to create sets that are portable but still effective enough to help tell the story of the productions.

Education, Training, and Professional Qualifications
A bachelor's degree in art, design, or theater is required for most entry-level positions. Working in the art and design departments of professional or school stage productions provides good experience.

Other Considerations
Stage and set designers must be able to picture the designs they want, sketch plans for the designs, and then lead others to help them carry out their plans.