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If you’ve Googled “Production Designer job description,” you’ve probably seen dozens of posts that all look the same.
A few bullet points.
A generic list of “responsibilities” and “requirements.”
Zero personality.
And here’s the problem—those posts don’t actually help you attract great candidates.
At best, they get you a pile of copy-paste applications from people who barely skimmed the listing.
A great job description is more than a formality. It’s your first chance to spark interest, sell your vision, and connect with the kind of Production Designer who can bring it to life.
In this guide, we’re going to do more than just hand you a template. We’ll walk you through:
- What a Production Designer actually does (in plain English)
- Two example job descriptions you can adapt—one for experienced hires, and one for entry-level or “willing-to-train” candidates
- A breakdown of why they work
- A bad example so you can avoid the common pitfalls
- Bonus tips to make your post stand out
- How to use AI the right way—without ending up with something generic
If you haven’t already read our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/ , I recommend starting there—it explains why generic posts fail, and why a more intentional, human approach works better.
Don’t let bad hires slow you down.
WorkScreen helps you identify the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.
What a Production Designer Actually Does
A Production Designer is the creative mastermind who brings a project’s visual world to life.
They’re the person who makes sure every set, prop, and visual element tells the right story and supports the overall vision—whether that’s for a film, a TV series, a stage production, or even a live event.
They don’t just “make things look nice.” They translate concepts into tangible designs, coordinate with directors and producers, source materials, oversee budgets, and manage the art department from start to finish.
Think of them as part artist, part project manager, part storyteller.
- Artist, because they design the look and feel of the production.
- Project manager, because they keep timelines, budgets, and teams on track.
- Storyteller, because every creative choice—from the color of a wall to the texture of a costume—affects how the audience experiences the story.
In short: a Production Designer shapes the audience’s visual experience. The best ones blend creativity with organization, vision with collaboration, and big ideas with the practical know-how to make them happen.
Two Great Production Designer Job Description Templates
We’ll provide two tailored job description options:
1.✅ Option 1: For employers looking to hire an experienced candidates with prior experience.
2.Option 2: For employers open to hiring entry-level candidates or those willing to train someone with potential.
✅ Version 1: Job Description For Experienced Production Designer
🎬 Job Title: Production Designer at LumenArc Studios — Build Worlds for Film, TV, and Live Events
📍 Location: Atlanta, GA | Hybrid (on-set + office + some remote)
💼 Type: Full-Time
💲 Salary: $70,000–$90,000 (based on experience)
🕒 Schedule: Mon–Fri | Flexible hours based on production
🎥 A Quick Word from the Hiring Manager
Watch this 60-second intro on what we’re building and how this role leads the art department. (Insert Loom/YouTube link)
Who We Are — LumenArc Studios
LumenArc is an independent production house based in Atlanta specializing in narrative features, docu-series, and immersive brand events. We’re known for craft-first storytelling, practical builds, and tight-knit crews that move fast without sacrificing detail. Our art department operates out of an 8,000-sq-ft workshop with in-house set construction, prop fabrication, and scenic teams. We believe great worlds make great stories—and we’re hiring a Production Designer to lead that vision across formats.
What You’ll Do
- Partner with directors and producers to define the visual language for each project.
- Own set/prop design from mood boards and sketches to on-set execution.
- Translate scripts into clear build plans, materials lists, and schedules.
- Lead and mentor the art department (assistants, set dressers, props, fabrication).
- Balance creative ambition with budget, timelines, and safety.
- Source vendors, negotiate rates, and maintain design quality across units.
- Be on set for key builds, dress days, and shoot days to protect the vision.
What You Bring
- 5+ years in production design (film/TV/theatre/live events).
- Portfolio that shows range (world-building, period, contemporary, experiential).
- Fluency with SketchUp/AutoCAD and Adobe CC (or equivalents).
- Calm, decisive leadership; excellent communication with creative + crew.
- Proven budgeting, scheduling, and vendor management.
Bonus Points
- Experience shipping both indie and higher-budget productions.
- Network of reliable local vendors and craftspeople.
- Comfort collaborating with VFX leads for seamless practical/CG integration.
Perks & Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage
- 401(k) with company match after 6 months
- 15 PTO days + 10 paid holidays
- Paid “Creative Lab” days (2 per quarter) for personal R&D
- Equipment + software stipend
- On-set meals/per diem when traveling
- Overtime eligible per project terms
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
- Lead the look. You’ll define the visual identity across multiple projects a year.
- Make, not just manage. We build in-house, so your designs get realized fast.
- Real growth. Clear path to Department Head across larger slates.
- Tight crews. Small, senior teams that value craft, communication, and respect.
Our Hiring Process
We review every application and reply within 2 weeks. Shortlisted candidates: intro interview → portfolio walkthrough → practical brief (short design exercise) → references.
How to Apply
Apply via WorkScreen: [Insert WorkScreen link]
We use WorkScreen.io to fairly evaluate skills with a short, role-relevant exercise.
✅ Version 2: Job Description For Entry-Level / Willing-to-Train Candidate
🎬 Job Title: Junior Production Designer at LumenArc Studios — Learn by Building
📍 Location: Atlanta, GA | On-site with some flexible days
💼 Type: Full-Time
💲 Salary: $45,000–$55,000 (based on experience)
🕒 Schedule: Mon–Fri | Flexible hours based on production
🎥 A Quick Word from the Hiring Manager
Here’s how we train emerging designers and the kinds of builds you’ll touch in month one. (Insert Loom/YouTube link)
Who We Are — LumenArc Studios
LumenArc is an Atlanta-based production studio crafting film, TV, and brand experiences. Our art department blends design, fabrication, and smart problem-solving to create worlds that feel lived-in. We’re looking for a Junior Production Designer with strong visual instincts and the work ethic to learn fast on real sets.
What You’ll Do
- Assist senior designers with concept boards, references, and lookbooks.
- Draft simple set plans and prop specs; maintain asset libraries.
- Help source materials, props, and rentals; track purchases and returns.
- Support set builds and dress days; coordinate with fabrication and props.
- Learn industry tools (SketchUp/AutoCAD/Adobe CC) with hands-on mentorship.
- Pitch ideas—your eye matters here.
What You Bring
- Background in art/design/theatre/film (degree helpful but not required).
- A portfolio (school, personal, or freelance) that shows taste and craftsmanship.
- Strong organization, communication, and follow-through.
- Willingness to roll up your sleeves on builds and strike.
Nice to Have
- Basic proficiency in Photoshop/Illustrator/SketchUp.
- Any hands-on experience (scene shop, scenic, fabrication, props).
Perks & Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage
- 12 PTO days + 10 paid holidays
- Training budget for software courses + workshops
- Mentorship program with senior Production Designers
- Equipment stipend after 90 days
- On-set meals/per diem when traveling
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
- Build your reel fast. Real projects, real sets, real credits.
- Hands-on learning. You won’t just observe—you’ll design and build.
- Clear progression. Path to Assistant PD → Production Designer as you grow.
- Supportive team. Feedback, coaching, and recognition are part of the job.
Our Hiring Process
We reply to all applicants within 2 weeks. Shortlist: intro interview → mini portfolio chat → short practical exercise → references.
How to Apply
Apply via WorkScreen: [Insert WorkScreen link]
We use WorkScreen.io to evaluate potential with a short, skills-focused brief (not a resume screen).
Hiring doesn’t have to be hard.
If your hiring process is stressful, slow, or filled with second-guessing—WorkScreen fixes that. Workscreen helps you quickly identify top talent fast, eliminate low-quality applicants, and make better hires without the headaches.
Breakdown of Why These Production Designer Job Posts Work
Both the experienced hire and entry-level versions follow the same principles that separate great job descriptions from forgettable ones. Here’s why they’re effective:
1. Clear, Specific Titles
Instead of a bland “Production Designer” or “Junior Designer,” the titles add context and appeal:
- “Production Designer at LumenArc Studios — Build Worlds for Film, TV, and Live Events” instantly tells candidates what they’ll work on and the scope.
- “Junior Production Designer at LumenArc Studios — Learn by Building” appeals to ambitious newcomers looking for mentorship and hands-on growth.
This clarity helps attract the right talent while deterring unqualified applicants.
2. Video Element for Personal Connection
A Loom or short YouTube video from the hiring manager or creative lead humanizes the role. Candidates get to “meet” someone from the team before they apply, which builds trust and excitement. This is a small touch that most companies skip—but top candidates notice.
3. Warm, Story-Driven Company Overview
The “Who We Are” sections go beyond mission statements and corporate boilerplate. They:
- Name the company and location.
- Describe the specific type of work (film, TV, immersive events, fabrication).
- Highlight what makes the team different (in-house builds, small senior crews, craft-first approach).
It’s storytelling with substance, helping candidates decide if they align with the culture and work style.
4. Responsibilities Show Impact, Not Just Tasks
The posts explain why each responsibility matters. Instead of just “Design sets and props,” they specify “Own set/prop design from mood boards and sketches to on-set execution” or “Help source materials, props, and rentals; track purchases and returns.”
This paints a clear picture of day-to-day work while showing how the role fits into the bigger production process.
5. Transparent Requirements and “Bonus Points”
- Both versions list core qualifications clearly.
- They use “Bonus Points” and “Nice to Have” sections to show flexibility, encouraging more applications from candidates who may not check every box.
This expands the talent pool without lowering standards.
6. Perks & Benefits Listed Separately
Listing tangible perks (insurance, PTO, stipends, creative days) separately from the “Why This Role Is a Great Fit” section ensures candidates see the concrete value first—then feel the emotional appeal of the role afterward.
7. “Why This Role Is a Great Fit” Sells the Opportunity
This section is your pitch to the ideal candidate. Instead of generic “We’re a great place to work,” it calls out:
- Creative ownership.
- In-house builds for faster execution.
- Mentorship for junior hires.
- Clear growth paths.
It tells them why they should choose you over another offer.
8. Respectful, Transparent Hiring Process
Both JDs promise:
- Every applicant gets a reply.
- A clear timeline (two weeks).
- Step-by-step process breakdown.
This builds trust and signals a respectful company culture—something many candidates never experience in hiring.
9. WorkScreen.io Application Process
Instead of a resume dump, candidates apply via WorkScreen.io, where they complete a skills-focused exercise relevant to the role.
- This filters out low-effort, one-click applicants.
- It ensures fair, skill-based evaluation.
- It appeals to high-quality candidates who want to be judged on ability, not just their résumé.
Bad Production Designer Job Description Example (And Why It Fails)
Job Title: Production Designer
Company: Confidential Production Company
Location: Atlanta, GA
Type: Full-Time
Job Summary
We are seeking a production designer to handle design-related aspects of our productions. The ideal candidate will have experience and be able to work on multiple projects at once.
Responsibilities
- Design sets and props as needed.
- Coordinate with team members.
- Ensure production deadlines are met.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in design or related field.
- At least 3 years of experience.
- Good communication skills.
How to Apply
Send résumé to jobs@company.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
❌ Why This Job Post Fails
- Generic Job Title – Just “Production Designer” with no context. It doesn’t tell the candidate what type of productions, scale, or industry.
- Cold, Impersonal Intro – The summary is vague (“design-related aspects”) and uninspiring. No mission, no company identity, no reason to get excited.
- No Salary or Benefits Info – Candidates have no idea what’s being offered, which signals a lack of transparency and can deter serious talent.
- Responsibilities Are Bare Minimum – “Coordinate with team members” could mean anything; there’s no detail about creative scope or expectations.
- Excludes Without Encouraging – The requirements list is short but rigid. No indication of openness to diverse backgrounds, portfolios, or transferable skills.
- Cold, Dismissive Hiring Process – “Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” is the exact opposite of a respectful candidate experience.
- Zero Personality or Brand Voice – Reads like a placeholder rather than an opportunity worth applying for.
Bonus Tips to Make Your Production Designer Job Post Stand Out
Even a strong job description can be made more compelling with small, high-impact additions. Here are some ways to take your Production Designer posting from “good” to “irresistible”:
1. Add a Security & Privacy Notice
Build trust by reassuring candidates that their information is safe.
Example:
“We take the security and privacy of all job applicants very seriously. We will never request payment, bank details, or personal financial information during any stage of the hiring process.”
This reduces hesitation from applicants who have seen scams in the creative industry.
2. Mention Time Off & Flexibility
Creative professionals value recovery time to avoid burnout.
Example:
“Enjoy 15 days of PTO plus 10 paid holidays each year, so you can recharge and bring your best ideas to every project.”
You could also highlight flex days or remote prep days when feasible.
3. Highlight Training & Growth Opportunities
Production Designers often want to evolve their skills—especially in emerging tools like VR previsualization or sustainable set design.
Example:
“We invest in our team’s growth. You’ll have access to paid workshops, software courses, and mentorship from industry veterans.”
4. Include a Loom or YouTube Video
Already in the main templates, but worth stressing: this is an underused differentiator in job posts. Let candidates see the studio space, ongoing builds, and meet the art team in under 90 seconds.
Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4
5. Showcase Real Team Testimonials
Add a quote or two from existing art department members to give candidates an authentic feel for the culture.
Example:
“I’ve worked at three studios, and LumenArc is the first where my ideas actually make it to set. The collaboration here is unmatched.” – Sofia, Assistant Production Designer
6. Call Out Your Creative Process
Most job posts list tasks. Few show the creative journey the team takes.
Example:
“From first read to final dress, our PDs collaborate closely with directors, cinematographers, and even marketing teams to ensure every visual choice supports the story and brand.”
7. Be Clear About Decision Timelines
Respect for candidates’ time can set you apart.
Example:
“We commit to reviewing every application and responding within two weeks.”
A Word of Caution on Using AI for Job Descriptions
AI tools are everywhere now—and yes, they can help speed things up. But if you’ve ever read an AI-generated job description with zero human input, you know what happens: it sounds generic, soulless, and forgettable.
Why You Shouldn’t Let AI Write Your Job Post From Scratch
If you simply type:
“Write a Production Designer job description.”
…you’ll probably get something that:
- Lists the same 5–6 responsibilities as every other post online.
- Has no reflection of your company’s creative culture or process.
- Reads like a Wikipedia entry—safe, bland, and lifeless.
- Attracts low-effort “spray and pray” applicants who apply to anything vaguely relevant.
Your job post is your first impression—and a generic AI post tells top candidates you don’t value the role enough to put thought into it.
The Right Way to Use AI (With a Production Designer Example)
AI works best as a polishing tool, not a replacement for your input.
Instead of a vague prompt, feed it specific, rich details:
“Help me write a Production Designer job post for LumenArc Studios in Atlanta, GA.
We create film, TV, and immersive brand events.
This is a full-time role, hybrid schedule, $70k–$90k salary range.
Our culture is collaborative, craft-first, and detail-obsessed.
We offer medical, dental, vision, PTO, and paid creative days.
The ideal candidate has 5+ years’ experience, a diverse portfolio, and strong leadership skills.
Here’s a list of responsibilities we’ve drafted: [paste your bullet points here].
Write in a warm, conversational tone that reflects a creative studio’s voice.”
With this kind of context, AI can:
- Refine your tone and clarity.
- Improve flow and readability.
- Suggest small improvements you might not think of.
It can’t replace your insights, values, and voice—but it can help you present them better.
💡 Pro Tip: You can even paste in a great example job description (like the LumenArc one above) and tell AI:
“Use this as a style guide for tone and structure, but adapt it for a Production Designer role at my company.”
This keeps the post unique to you while benefiting from proven structure.
Build a winning team—without the hiring headache.
WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing.
Need a Quick Copy-Paste Production Designer Job Description?
We get it—sometimes you just need something fast.
Maybe you’ve read through this guide and understand what makes a strong job post, but you want a solid starting point you can copy, paste, and tailor in minutes.
That’s what this section is for.
✏️ Important Reminder:
Don’t copy this word-for-word and expect magic.
This is a foundation, not a final draft.
Add a Loom video, inject your team culture, and edit the details to reflect your actual company.
In this section, you’ll find two ready-to-use job description templates for quick copy-paste use — but please remember, like we mentioned above, don’t just copy them word-for-word and expect results.
Think of these as starting points, not final drafts.
- Option 1: A more conversational, culture-first job description that highlights personality and team fit.
- Option 2: A more structured format, including a Job Brief, Responsibilities, and Requirements for a traditional approach.
✅ Option 1: Conversational, Culture-First Template
🎬 Job Title: Production Designer at [Company Name] — Bring Worlds to Life
📍 Location: [City, State/Country] | [On-Site/Hybrid/Remote]
💼 Type: [Full-Time/Part-Time/Contract]
💲 Salary: [Salary Range, e.g., $XX,XXX–$XX,XXX/year] (based on experience)
🕒 Schedule: [Work hours + flexibility if applicable]
🎥 A Quick Word from the Hiring Manager
[Insert Loom/YouTube link — a 60–90s intro to the role, team, and how design leads the process]
Who We Are
[Company Name] is a [brief description: what you produce—film/TV/live events/brand experiences] studio known for [creative approach: practical builds, world-building, craft-first storytelling]. We believe exceptional design shapes unforgettable stories—and we’re hiring a Production Designer who can bring that vision to life.
What You’ll Do
- Collaborate with directors and producers to define each project’s visual language.
- Design sets, props, and environments from concept to on-set execution.
- Translate scripts into mood boards, build plans, schedules, and materials lists.
- Lead the art department (assistants, set dressers, props, fabrication).
- Manage design budgets, timelines, and vendor relationships.
- Be present on key build, dress, and shoot days to protect the vision.
What You Bring
- [X]+ years in production design (film/TV/theatre/live events).
- Portfolio showing range (period, contemporary, experiential).
- Proficiency with [SketchUp/AutoCAD/Adobe CC or similar].
- Clear communication and calm, decisive leadership.
- Strong budgeting, scheduling, and vendor management.
Perks & Benefits
- [Medical/Dental/Vision]
- [PTO/paid holidays]
- [Professional development budget / creative days]
- [Equipment/software stipend]
- [Per diem/on-set meals when traveling]
- [Any other role-specific benefits]
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
- Creative ownership: Define the look across multiple productions.
- Make, not just manage: Designs move from concept to build quickly.
- Growth path: [e.g., Lead PD/Department Head track]
- Collaborative culture: Small, senior teams that value craft and respect.
Our Hiring Process
We review every application and respond within [timeframe, e.g., 2 weeks]. Shortlisted candidates: [intro interview → portfolio walkthrough → short practical brief → references].
How to Apply
Apply via [WorkScreen link]. We use WorkScreen.io to run a short, skills-focused exercise so we can evaluate ability—not just résumés.
✅ Option 2: Structured “Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements” Template
📍 Location: [City, State/Country] | [On-Site/Hybrid/Remote]
💼 Type: [Full-Time/Part-Time/Contract]
💲 Salary: [Salary Range, e.g., $XX,XXX–$XX,XXX/year]
Job Brief
[Company Name] is seeking a Production Designer to lead the visual design of our [films/series/live events/brand experiences]. You’ll own concept development, design execution, and art department oversight to deliver story-driven environments.
Responsibilities
- Translate scripts into design concepts, mood boards, and build plans.
- Lead and mentor the art department.
- Coordinate with directors, cinematographers, and [VFX/technical]
- Manage design budgets, schedules, and vendors.
- Source and oversee fabrication of props, set pieces, and materials.
- Ensure consistency and quality across all visual elements.
Requirements
- Proven experience as a Production Designer or similar role.
- Portfolio demonstrating diverse design styles and storytelling.
- Proficiency with [SketchUp/AutoCAD/Adobe CC or similar].
- Strong communication, organization, and leadership.
Benefits
- [List core benefits: Medical/Dental/Vision, PTO, etc.]
- [Learning budget/mentorship/progression path]
- [Equipment/software stipend]
Our Hiring Process
[Describe timeline + steps: application review → interview → portfolio review → short exercise → references]
How to Apply
Apply via [WorkScreen link] or [application portal].
Let WorkScreen Handle the Next Step of Hiring
Writing a strong job description is step one.
Step two? Making sure the people who apply are actually a great fit.
That’s where WorkScreen.io comes in.
Here’s how it helps you hire smarter:
- Quickly identify your most promising candidates
WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—making it easy to spot top talent, save time, and make smarter, data-driven hiring decisions.
- Easily run one-click skill tests
With WorkScreen, you can administer one-click skill tests to assess candidates based on real-world ability—not just credentials like résumés and past experience. This helps you hire more confidently and holistically.
- Eliminate low-effort applicants
WorkScreen automatically eliminates low-effort applicants who use AI Tools to apply, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply.” This way, you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.
💡 Pro Tip: If you’ve already crafted your Production Designer job post using the templates in this guide, you can paste it into WorkScreen.io, get your unique application link, and start collecting pre-screened, skills-tested candidates immediately.
👉 Sign up for WorkScreen.io today
and let it handle the heavy lifting after your job post goes live.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiring a Production Designer
A set designer focuses specifically on the physical sets used in a production—designing, drafting, and detailing how each set will be constructed and dressed.
A production designer, on the other hand, oversees the entire visual concept of a production, which includes sets, props, costumes, color palettes, and sometimes even locations. The set designer often works under the production designer’s direction.
A production manager is responsible for the logistics—budgeting, scheduling, hiring crew, and making sure the production stays on track financially and operationally.
A production designer is responsible for the creative visual direction—designing how the world of the story will look and feel. While they collaborate closely, one is focused on operations, the other on aesthetics and storytelling.
Key skills include:
- Creative vision and storytelling – the ability to interpret scripts into cohesive visual worlds.
- Technical design knowledge – proficiency in software like SketchUp, AutoCAD, or Adobe Creative Suite.
- Leadership – managing art department teams, vendors, and budgets.
- Collaboration – working closely with directors, producers, cinematographers, and other creatives.
- Problem-solving – adapting designs to time, budget, and resource constraints without compromising quality.
Salaries vary based on location, industry, and experience:
- Entry-level: Around $45,000–$55,000/year.
- Mid-level: Around $60,000–$75,000/year.
- Senior/experienced: $80,000–$100,000+/year.
In the film industry, union rates for production designers (covered by organizations like the Art Directors Guild in the U.S.) can be significantly higher for large-scale productions.
Yes. While many specialize in one area, the core skills—visual storytelling, set design oversight, prop sourcing—transfer between mediums. However, theatre often requires more focus on practical stagecraft and durability, while film prioritizes detail for close-up shots and camera angles.
Ideally, hire them as early as pre-production—right after the director and producer are on board. The production designer’s input on visual style, set requirements, and location needs can significantly influence budgets, timelines, and creative direction.
Beyond reviewing their portfolio, look for:
- How they speak about past collaborations—do they give credit to their teams?
- Whether they balance vision with practicality.
- Their willingness to adapt ideas based on director or client input.
- How they respond to unexpected challenges.
