SEASONAL Props Designer

SEASONAL Props Designer )

Reporting to the Production Manager, the Seasonal Props Designer is responsible for acquisition, creation, maintenance, and strike of all rehearsal and show hand props, consumables, furniture props, and set dressing for four mainstage productions. The Props Designer collaborates closely with Directors, Scenic Designers, and Stage Managers on the artistic and logistical needs of the production. This position is also responsible for supervising and mentoring student props artisans and designers.

• 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—from CCC Theatre’s inventory, shopping, construction, altering, renting, or borrowing as needed.
• 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 and reconcile all expenses with 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.

• 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 50 lbs.

The salary range provided in this posting reflects what we reasonably expect to pay for this position. Actual compensation offered or earned is dependent on experience, education and other factors including department budget.

We offer a rewarding work environment for faculty and staff, including competitive benefits with affordable health, dental and vision coverage; flexible spending accounts; commuter benefit program; life, accidental, death & dismemberment coverage; paid and unpaid leave options; work/life benefits; educational assistance programs; and retirement and financial planning benefits.

Position subject to background screening.
Non‑union position.
Part‑time position.
Overtime eligible.

Qualified candidates of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Columbia College Chicago is an equal‑opportunity employer and complies with all local, state, and federal laws and regulations concerning civil rights. The college does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law.