Scenery Fabricator Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of event and theatrical production, the role of a scenery fabricator has never been more paramount.

As the demand for immersive and visually stunning experiences grows, the need for skilled artisans who can craft, enhance, and maintain our physical landscapes is escalating.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a scenery fabricator?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the craft of scenery fabrication,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable scenery fabricator job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Scenery Fabricator Duties and Responsibilities

Scenery Fabricators work in theater or film production and are responsible for the creation, assembly, and maintenance of various physical elements of a performance or show.

Their work is crucial in creating the visual and sometimes tactile elements of a production, helping to set the stage, mood, and tone for the performance.

The duties and responsibilities of a Scenery Fabricator include:

• Reading and interpreting design plans and sketches to understand the required scenery elements
• Building, assembling, and painting set pieces as per the design specifications
• Using a variety of tools and machinery, including hand tools, power tools, and fabricating machines
• Collaborating with designers, directors, and other production staff to ensure the scenery aligns with the overall vision for the production
• Maintaining, repairing, and modifying set pieces as necessary during the course of a production
• Ensuring safe construction and installation of scenery to prevent accidents or injuries
• Maintaining an inventory of materials and tools, ordering more as necessary
• Overseeing the strike (dismantling) of the set at the end of the production and ensuring all materials are properly stored or disposed of
• Following health and safety guidelines in the workshop and on set

 

Scenery Fabricator Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a talented Scenery Fabricator to join our production team.

As a Scenery Fabricator, your primary role will be to create and build the visual elements of a stage or film set according to the designer’s vision.

You will work closely with set designers, artists, and production crews to fabricate and install scenic elements for various productions.

An ideal candidate should have an excellent understanding of materials, tools, and fabrication techniques, and a keen eye for details.

 

Responsibilities

• Interpret and execute designs from technical drawings and sketches.
• Fabricate and assemble different types of scenery including flats, platforms, and props.
• Operate a variety of hand tools and power tools safely and efficiently.
• Ensure all scenic elements are completed on schedule and within budget.
• Collaborate with designers, artists, and other crew members to meet production needs.
• Ensure the safety and quality of all fabricated elements.
• Perform routine maintenance and repairs on scenery and props as needed.
• Maintain a clean and organized workspace.

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Scenery Fabricator or similar role in theater, film, or event production.
• Strong knowledge of construction materials, tools, and techniques.
• Ability to interpret and execute technical drawings and sketches.
• Excellent problem-solving and teamwork skills.
• Strong attention to detail and quality.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Comfortable with physical labor and able to lift heavy objects.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Paid time off
• Opportunity to work on exciting projects
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Scenery Fabricator
• Work Environment: Shop and on-site at production locations. This role involves physical labor and may require working at heights or in confined spaces.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Scenic Shop Manager or Production Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $30,000 minimum to $50,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• 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 cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Scenery Fabricator Do?

Scenery Fabricators are integral to the theater, film, and television industries, as well as event production companies.

Their primary responsibility involves designing and constructing the physical elements of a set, including backdrops, props, and special effects items.

This process often starts with reading scripts or project outlines to understand the setting, period, and mood to be conveyed.

Scenery Fabricators work closely with production designers, directors, and other members of the production team to ensure that the scenic elements accurately depict the desired aesthetic.

They may use a variety of materials, such as wood, metal, plastic, and fabric, and tools like power saws, drills, and welding equipment in their work.

Their role also includes maintaining and repairing scenery items, and often, they are responsible for overseeing the installation and dismantling of the sets at the shooting or performance sites.

Scenery Fabricators need to be creative and able to interpret often abstract ideas into tangible, realistic structures.

They also need to be mindful of safety regulations and ensure that the sets are safe for the actors, crew, and audience.

Finally, Scenery Fabricators need to be adept at problem-solving, as they often need to adapt designs or troubleshoot issues that arise during the construction or installation process.

 

Scenery Fabricator Qualifications and Skills

A proficient scenery fabricator should possess the necessary skills and qualifications that correspond with the requirements of the role, such as:

• Artistic creativity and aesthetic understanding to design and build visually appealing and realistic sceneries.
• Technical skills in carpentry, painting, and metalwork to create different types of sets and scenes.
• Keen attention to detail to ensure that the sceneries are accurate and in line with the requirements of the production.
• Physical strength and stamina to handle heavy materials and work for long hours.
• Knowledge of safety regulations and procedures to avoid any accidents or injuries during the fabrication process.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines without compromising the quality of work.
• Good communication skills to effectively collaborate with directors, designers, and other production staff and understand their vision and requirements.
• Problem-solving skills to address any issues or challenges that may arise during the scenery fabrication process.

 

Scenery Fabricator Experience Requirements

Scenery Fabricators often start their careers by pursuing a degree in theatre production, scenic design, or a related field.

In these programs, they gain hands-on experience in designing and building scenery.

Many Scenery Fabricators also gain experience through internships or part-time jobs with theatre companies, film studios, or event production companies.

This allows them to learn the practical skills required to fabricate scenery such as woodworking, metalworking, and painting.

Candidates with 2 to 3 years of experience have usually honed their technical skills and are capable of handling most tasks involved in scenery fabrication.

They may have worked on a variety of projects, from theatre productions to television sets, gaining a wide range of experience.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have developed a specialty area, such as historic reproduction or modern design.

They also usually have a deep understanding of health and safety regulations, which is crucial for this role.

Professionals with over 7 years of experience are often considered for leadership roles, such as Scenic Designer or Production Manager, where they oversee the design and fabrication of all scenery for a production.

They are typically proficient in using computer-aided design (CAD) software and may have experience managing budgets and timelines.

 

Scenery Fabricator Education and Training Requirements

Scenery Fabricators typically need a high school diploma or equivalent education.

However, many pursue further training with a bachelor’s degree in Theatre, Scenic Design, or a related field.

In addition to formal education, hands-on experience is crucial.

This can be obtained through internships, apprenticeships, or part-time jobs in theaters, film sets, or event companies.

Scenery Fabricators must have a comprehensive knowledge of various tools and construction techniques.

Experience with woodworking, metalwork, and painting is highly beneficial.

Some roles may require proficiency in drafting and design software such as AutoCAD or SketchUp.

While not mandatory, having a portfolio that showcases past work can make a candidate stand out.

This portfolio can be built through academic projects, professional assignments, or personal endeavors.

Certain Scenery Fabricators may opt to pursue additional certification in areas such as safety training or specialized construction techniques to enhance their skills and employability.

Continuous learning and staying updated with the latest trends in scenic design and fabrication is important in this field.

 

Scenery Fabricator Salary Expectations

A Scenery Fabricator can expect to earn an average salary of $37,800 (USD) per year.

However, this can vary depending on factors such as the fabricator’s experience, the size and budget of the production, and the location of the job.

 

Scenery Fabricator Job Description FAQs

What skills does a scenery fabricator need?

Scenery fabricators should have strong technical abilities to understand and implement design plans.

They need to be proficient in using various tools and machinery to build and modify scenery.

Attention to detail is crucial, as they have to accurately replicate designs.

They should have strong problem-solving skills to handle unexpected issues during the fabrication process.

Creativity and artistic skills also come in handy for this role.

 

Do scenery fabricators need a degree?

Not necessarily.

While some scenery fabricators might have degrees in fields like set design or fine arts, many others learn through on-the-job experience or apprenticeships.

That being said, having a degree or coursework in a related field can showcase a candidate’s commitment to learning and their foundational knowledge in the field.

 

What should you look for in a scenery fabricator’s resume?

Look for experience in set construction or a related field, as well as any relevant education.

The resume should showcase their familiarity with different materials and fabrication techniques.

Any experience with design software is a plus.

It’s also important to look for soft skills such as problem-solving, teamwork and time management.

 

What qualities make a good scenery fabricator?

A good scenery fabricator is detail-oriented, as they need to ensure the scenery is built accurately according to the design.

They should have good physical stamina, as the job often involves heavy lifting and standing for extended periods.

Creativity and a good sense of aesthetics are also beneficial, as they can help the fabricator bring the designer’s vision to life.

 

What are the challenges in hiring a scenery fabricator?

One of the main challenges in hiring a scenery fabricator is finding someone with the right mix of technical skills, creativity, and physical endurance.

It can also be challenging to find someone who is comfortable working under tight deadlines, as theater and film productions often have strict schedules.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we took you behind the scenes of what it really means to be a scenery fabricator.

Surprised?

It’s not just about creating sets.

It’s about painting the canvas of imaginary worlds, one piece of scenery at a time.

With our comprehensive scenery fabricator job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to step onto the stage.

But why stop at the footlights?

Venture further with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate tool for creating meticulous job listings or refining your resume to impress.

Remember:

Every piece of scenery contributes to the overall masterpiece.

Let’s craft that world. Together.

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