CAREER

Set and Exhibit Designers

Overview

Salary Median (2020)

$54,860

Projected Job Growth (2019-2029)

+5.2% (as fast as the average)

Career

What Set and Exhibit Designers Do

Design special exhibits and sets for film, video, television, and theater productions. May study scripts, confer with directors, and conduct research to determine appropriate architectural styles.

Other Job Titles Set and Exhibit Designers May Have

Display Coordinator, Exhibit Designer, Scenic Designer, Set Designer

How Leaders Describe a Typical Day at Work

Founder ,

Weatherhead Experience Design

I direct all educational and content development processes, including design, editorial, interactives, and media production. I also provide individual consultation and creative direction on numerous exhibit projects throughout the country.

LEGO Master Model Builder ,

LEGOLAND, California

I show up and ride my tricycle around our theme park before the guests arrive. I inspect every LEGO model for cleanliness and safety, and I repair anything that needs it. I then design new LEGO models using computer software and pencil and paper sketching. Then I build the new models, sometimes as part of a team. After all this, I document my process, and sometimes I even get to go on the news to share my latest creations!


Tasks & Responsibilities May Include

  • Develop set designs, based on evaluation of scripts, budgets, research information, and available locations.
  • Prepare rough drafts and scale working drawings of sets, including floor plans, scenery, and properties to be constructed.
  • Prepare preliminary renderings of proposed exhibits, including detailed construction, layout, and material specifications, and diagrams relating to aspects such as special effects or lighting.
  • Read scripts to determine location, set, and design requirements.
  • Submit plans for approval, and adapt plans to serve intended purposes, or to conform to budget or fabrication restrictions.

This page includes information from theO*NET 26.1 Databaseby the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under theCC BY 4.0license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.