Movie Prop Master Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of film and television, the role of the movie prop master has never been more crucial.

As the industry evolves, so does the demand for skilled individuals who can meticulously create, source, and manage the tangible elements of our on-screen realities.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a movie prop master?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker keen to understand the depths of this role,
• A hiring manager crafting the profile of the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the behind-the-scenes magic of movie prop mastery,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable movie prop master job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s get right into it.

Movie Prop Master Duties and Responsibilities

Movie Prop Masters play a crucial role in film production, providing and managing all the props that appear in a film.

They are responsible for the visual and aesthetic details that contribute to the overall storytelling.

A Movie Prop Master’s duties and responsibilities include:

• Consulting with directors and production designers to understand the vision for the movie
• Reading scripts to identify all props needed for the film
• Sourcing, purchasing or creating suitable props for each scene
• Maintaining an inventory of all props used in the film
• Ensuring that each prop is in the right place at the right time during filming
• Setting up and striking props during scene changes
• Responsible for the safe storage, transportation and handling of props, especially delicate, valuable or hazardous items
• Coordinating with other departments, such as the art department or special effects, for any necessary adjustments or modifications to props
• Documenting and cataloging props for continuity purposes
• Managing the prop budget and maintaining financial records

 

Movie Prop Master Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a skilled and imaginative Movie Prop Master to join our production team.

The Prop Master will be in charge of sourcing, creating, and maintaining all props used in our productions.

Their responsibilities include interpreting scripts to understand prop needs, sourcing or creating props, maintaining a detailed prop list, and ensuring props are available when needed during shooting.

The ideal candidate has a deep understanding of filmmaking, is extremely organized, and has a knack for finding or creating unique items to bring our films to life.

 

Responsibilities

• Read scripts and understand the visual needs of the production
• Source, create, or commission props required for the production
• Maintain a detailed inventory and tracking system for all props
• Ensure props are available on set when required
• Work closely with the production designer and director to understand and meet the visual needs of the film
• Manage the prop budget effectively
• Ensure the safe storage and transportation of props
• Cooperate with the art department to ensure consistency and accuracy

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Prop Master, or similar role in film production
• Excellent understanding of film production processes
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities
• Ability to source unique items or create custom props
• Excellent budget management skills
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations
• A keen eye for detail and aesthetics
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Paid time off
• Opportunities to work on diverse and exciting film projects
• Access to industry events and networking opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Movie Prop Master
• Work Environment: Mostly on-set, with some time spent in prop storage or sourcing locations. Some travel may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Production Designer or Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time, Contract
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a portfolio of your past work to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Movie Prop Master Do?

A Movie Prop Master, also known as a Property Master, works in the film industry and is responsible for acquiring, creating, and managing all the props that appear in a movie.

These professionals work closely with the director, production designer, and art director to understand the vision and requirements for each scene.

This includes researching period details for historical accuracy, creating realistic props to match the script, and ensuring that each prop is safe for the actors to use.

They are responsible for purchasing, making, or renting props, and for keeping track of them during production.

This might involve organizing the storage and transportation of props, repairing any damaged props, and ensuring the correct prop is ready for each scene.

In addition, Movie Prop Masters maintain continuity by ensuring the props are consistently placed and used correctly from scene to scene.

They also have to adhere to the budget set by the production company.

Post-production, they might be tasked with returning rented items, selling off used props, or storing them for future use.

The role requires creativity, an eye for detail, good organizational skills, and knowledge of various historical periods and styles.

 

Movie Prop Master Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Movie Prop Master should have the skills and qualifications that align with the job role, including:

• Strong knowledge of various historical periods and styles to accurately source and create props for the relevant setting of the movie.
• Attention to detail to ensure that the props are accurate and fit the requirement of the script and director’s vision.
• Excellent time management and organizational skills to manage and oversee multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring that all props are ready on set when needed.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills to liaise with various teams such as set designers, directors, and actors, understanding their needs and working collaboratively.
• Proficiency in the use of a wide range of tools and machinery to create custom props when necessary.
• Problem-solving abilities to quickly address and fix any issues related to props on the set.
• Physical stamina as the job often requires lifting heavy objects, and working long hours on set.
• Knowledge of safety protocols to ensure that all props are safe for use during filming.

 

Movie Prop Master Experience Requirements

A Movie Prop Master generally gains foundational skills and experiences through a combination of academic training and practical apprenticeship.

Degrees in film, theater, art, design or a related field offer a theoretical background beneficial to this role.

Additionally, practical skills like carpentry, painting, welding, and sewing can be useful and are often learned on-the-job or through vocational training.

Many Prop Masters begin their careers in entry-level roles in the art department of a film or theater production, such as a prop assistant or set dresser.

This hands-on experience helps them to understand the logistics of sourcing, creating, and managing props.

For a more senior role, a Prop Master may need 2 to 5 years of experience, having demonstrated their ability to oversee prop creation, manage budgets, and coordinate with other departments to ensure continuity and realism in film or theater productions.

Prop Masters with over 5 years of experience often have a portfolio of diverse projects, showcasing their creative problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.

They may also have experience leading a team and coordinating with a range of professionals, from directors to special effects teams.

This level of experience may prepare them for larger, more complex productions or leadership roles within the art department.

 

Movie Prop Master Education and Training Requirements

To become a Movie Prop Master, a bachelor’s degree in film studies, theatre, art, design, or a related field is typically required.

This provides a foundational understanding of film production and a platform from which to understand and create the visual concepts needed in film.

In addition to a degree, practical experience is highly important.

This may be gained through internships or work experience on film sets, in theatre productions, or at prop houses.

Prop Masters are expected to have a deep understanding of various types of props, their uses, and how to source or create them, which can only be learned through hands-on experience.

Furthermore, they should be familiar with various tools and materials used in prop creation.

Courses or workshops in carpentry, metalworking, painting, and sewing can be beneficial.

Computer skills are also necessary, particularly knowledge of design software such as Adobe Creative Suite or AutoCAD, to create design plans and concept visualizations.

There are no specific certifications required for a Movie Prop Master, but courses or certificates in set design, prop creation, or related areas can help demonstrate commitment and expertise.

Finally, creativity, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to work under pressure are key soft skills for this role, which are often developed through practical experience.

 

Movie Prop Master Salary Expectations

A Movie Prop Master earns an average salary of $70,000 (USD) per year.

However, this can range significantly from $40,000 to over $100,000 depending on the budget of the film, the complexity of the project, and the level of experience and reputation of the Prop Master.

The location of the production can also influence earnings.

 

Movie Prop Master Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Movie Prop Master need?

A Movie Prop Master needs to be highly creative and have a keen eye for detail, as they are responsible for finding, making, or procuring props that fit the era, location, and style of the film.

They should have excellent organizational and multitasking abilities to manage the many props used in a movie.

Knowledge of various materials and construction techniques is also essential, as is the ability to work under tight deadlines.

 

Do Movie Prop Masters need a degree?

While a degree isn’t necessary to become a Movie Prop Master, having a degree in areas such as art, design, theater arts, or film studies can be beneficial.

The role requires practical experience, and this can often be gained through working in theater or on small film sets.

Essential to the role is a broad knowledge of historical and contemporary props, as well as the ability to source or create them.

 

What should you look for in a Movie Prop Master’s resume?

A Movie Prop Master’s resume should showcase their experience in sourcing, creating, and managing props for film or theater.

Look for a diverse portfolio of projects that demonstrates their versatility and creativity.

A good resume will also highlight their organizational skills, ability to work under pressure, and their knowledge of different periods and styles.

Prior experience in carpentry, metalwork, or any other craft-related skills should also be seen as a plus.

 

What qualities make a good Movie Prop Master?

A good Movie Prop Master is highly creative and can visualize how props will look on screen.

They’re also resourceful and are adept at finding or creating the perfect prop even under tight budgets and deadlines.

They have excellent organizational skills and can keep track of a large number of props.

They’re team players who can work effectively with directors, set designers, and other members of the production crew.

 

What are the daily duties of a Movie Prop Master?

A Movie Prop Master’s daily duties involve sourcing, creating, or modifying props for use in film scenes.

They also organize and maintain props on set, ensuring they’re in the right place at the right time.

They work closely with the director and production designer to understand their vision for the movie and how props can help bring that vision to life.

They are also responsible for the safe storage, transport, and sometimes disposal of props after filming.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve lifted the veil on what it truly means to be a Movie Prop Master.

Surprised?

It’s not just about creating objects.

It’s about constructing the physical world of cinema, one prop at a time.

Armed with our comprehensive Movie Prop Master job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to take the next step.

But don’t stop there!

Venture further with our job description generator. It’s your pathway to crafting precise listings or refining your resume to cinematic brilliance.

Remember:

Each prop is a piece of the cinematic tapestry.

Let’s create that world. Together.

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