SEASONAL Props Designer
Position Summary
Columbia College Chicago is searching for a Seasonal Props Designer to support four mainstage productions. Reporting to the Production Manager, the Props Designer collaborates with Directors, Scenic Designers, and Stage Managers on the artistic and logistical needs of the production.
Duties & Responsibilities
Design, source, build, alter and maintain all props and set dressing.
Attend design and production meetings, designer runs, technical rehearsals, preview performances, as scheduled by the Production Manager.
Attend audition meetings and rehearsals as needed or requested by the Production Manager, Director, and/or Stage Manager.
Create and update props lists throughout production and rehearsal processes.
Acquire all props—pulling from CCC Theatre’s inventory, shopping, constructing, altering, renting, or borrowing as needed.
Cook up and coordinate transport and delivery of all items and the return of all rented or borrowed materials.
Oversee maintenance, repairs, and consumables replenishment throughout each run. Provide repair kits and train student crews in basic maintenance needs. Address major repairs or recurring issues directly.
Track props budgets, reconcile all expenses accurate paperwork and itemized receipts.
Lead props strike, returns, and inventory restoration.
Foster a positive, collaborative, and creative work environment rooted in respect.
Perform other related duties and/or responsibilities as assigned or required.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in design or technical theatre
Minimum of three years’ experience in professional theatre
Experience with props sourcing, fabrication, and alteration techniques, including carpentry, carving, molding, upholstery, painting, and sewing
Experience supervising or mentoring students, interns, or early career professionals preferred
Valid driver’s license
Strong organizational and budget-management skills
Comfort working at heights, in tight spaces, low light, near loud noises, and in dusty environments
Excellent communication and creative problem-solving skills
Ability to collaborate with individuals of varied personalities, skill levels, backgrounds, and neurodiversity
Ability to work a variable schedule, including evenings and Saturdays as required
Ability to read and interpret technical drawings
Ability to lift, push, pull, or otherwise maneuver independently up to 50lbs independently
Benefits
Competitive benefits with affordable health, dental and vision coverage
Flexible spending accounts
Commuter benefit program
Lifetime tuition reimbursement
Retirement and financial planning benefits