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Set Designer Job Description

What does a Set Designer do?

A Set Designer is responsible for creating the overall look and feel of a theatre, film or television production’s set. They work closely with the director, producers and other creative professionals to interpret the script or concept and design and construct the scenery, furniture and props needed for the production. Set Designers rely on their artistic skills, technical knowledge and creativity to design and build sets that are visually and aesthetically pleasing and effectively convey the desired tone and mood of the production. They may also be involved in sourcing and selecting props and furniture, managing budgets and collaborating with other departments to ensure that the final product is of the highest quality.

Our Set Designer job description includes the Set Designer responsibilities, duties, skills, education, qualifications, and experience.

Set Designer Example


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If you need an example job description for a Set Designer download the one below, alternatively we have many other Arts job description samples and a job description library with over 3000 job descriptions templates that you can download for free.

What does a Set Designer do?

A Set Designer is responsible for creating the settings on stage, film, or television sets. They create the environment in which a story is told, from the scenic elements to the props and furniture. They work closely with directors, producers and other creative staff to bring the script to life. The Set Designer must have a good eye for detail, be creative and have a good understanding of how to create a believable atmosphere for the story. They must be able to take direction, work within a budget and complete the set to a certain timeline. The Set Designer must be organized and able to work under pressure, as well as having good communication skills.

Set Designer Role Purpose

The purpose of a set designer is to create the physical environment in which a play, film or television production is set. Set designers are responsible for creating the entire physical world of a production, from the buildings and scenery, to the props and furniture. They work with the director, production designer and other creatives to ensure that the sets accurately reflect the vision of the script, and that the set is functional and can be changed quickly during production.

Set Designer Role

A Set Designer is responsible for creating and constructing sets for theatre, film and television productions. They work closely with directors, producers and production teams to design sets that accurately reflect the vision of the production. They must have an eye for detail and a good understanding of the technical aspects of theatre production, including carpentry, painting and lighting.

Set Designer Duties

  • Design sets for theatre, film, television and other performance pieces
  • Develop sketches and models of set designs
  • Source and purchase props, materials and furniture
  • Oversee the building and installation of sets
  • Work with directors, producers and lighting designers to ensure the set meets the production's requirements
  • Maintain safety on set

Set Designer Requirements

  • Creative flair and imagination
  • Ability to interpret scripts and visualise sets
  • Knowledge of construction techniques, materials and budgets
  • Understanding of the history of theatre and performance
  • Ability to work collaboratively with directors, producers and actors

Set Designer Skills

  • Creative flair
  • A good eye for detail
  • Good knowledge of materials and construction
  • Ability to interpret a script and visualise a production
  • The ability to work to a budget
  • Organisational and problem-solving skills

Set Designer Personal Traits

  • Creative
  • Organised
  • Attention to detail
  • Good communication skills

How to write a Set Designer Job Advert

Use our job advert template to write a job advert for posting on job sites and job boards. Our job advertising templates are carefully created to help you reach your audience and beat the competition to the best talent.

A job description informs the reader about a job, whereas a job advert’s main objective is to sell the job opportunity to attract as many suitable applicants possible. A job advert maybe the first touch-point a candidate has with your company so it is important to create a great impression.

Job Advertisements should enticing, so considering using short, exciting language which get the reader’s attention.

How to write a Set Designer Job Description

To write a job description, we recommend starting with a job description template from our job description library, which contains examples for 800+ positions and professions. Our job description examples include a job summary with duties and responsibilities and skills and requirements, which can be personalised for your job vacancy.

Job Description Advice - Guidance on How to Personalise a Set Designer Job Specification

The hiring process and recruiting new employees to fill your key roles requires a degree of personalisation if you are to attract the best employees in a competitive employment market. The right person for a crucial role or more senior roles will likely have other employers targeting them. As your job description will be the first point of contact, you need to nail your pitch and provide the best possible service.

Job Description Tips - Help on formatting a Set Designer Job Specification

When creating your bespoke description and advert, you should cover and promote these points:

Job title: This should accurately reflect the role and include keywords that top talent might be using to search for jobs.

Job duties: The day to day duties, such as administrative tasks, which vary depending on the company and inform the candidate if they can complete the role.

Technical skills: These are the hard skills required through training, such as proficiency with Microsoft Office.

Soft skills: These include the interpersonal skills and general abilities the right candidates will possess. For example, the competency to prioritise multiple tasks, handle customer queries and customer complaints, work alone, or build a good relationship with coworkers.

The company's culture: Highlighting your company culture and values ensures employees thrive and find outstanding job satisfaction. Candidates that are not the right fit won’t waste their time completing the application process, meaning you can focus on qualified individuals and hire in a more timely manner.

Career progression: Including the career path will entice candidates looking for career growth. 

Training and development programs: Smaller companies may need employees with previous experience or provide educational assistance over internal training offered by larger organisations with more significant resources. 

Employee benefits: Compensation and benefits often fail to appear in job ads and while you may want to hold your cards close to your chest, failing to include them is a mistake. Consider answering common questions, such as working hours and paid leave. Researching the average salary for the role in these early stages will ensure you don’t waste your interviewer’s and the candidate’s time.

Skill gaps: Your company may need to bring in new skills beyond those required to complete the key role and duties. Thinking on an organisational level can be beneficial when contemplating skills diversity.

Legal requirements: Ensure your job advert and description does not ask for inappropriate or discriminatory personal details, such as age, marital status, or religion.

How to Hire a Set Designer

Once you have selected your Job Description download it or convert it to a Job Advert. From here you can post/advertise your job across our network of job boards. If you wish to use the job description for a CV Template click through for advice and Convert to a CV

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