WHPATP - Scenic Paint Apprentice

Current job opportunities are posted here as they become available.

Seattle Rep is committed to producing the highest quality programming, and we believe that our ability to contribute to excellence in the arts depends on building a community whose members come from diverse cultures, backgrounds, and life experiences.

We are part of a growing movement in theater to ensure inclusion of those who have been excluded historically; focusing particularly on racial and ethnic groups, LGBTQ+ people, people with disabilities, and women, ensuring they are at the decision‑making table and reflected in our community.

Seattle Rep collaborates with extraordinary artists to create productions and programs that reflect and elevate the diverse cultures, perspectives, and life experiences of our region.

Theater at the heart of public life

Artistic Vitality, Sustainability, Generous and Inclusive Practices

Seattle Rep is seeking a Scenic Paint Apprentice for the  season. This apprenticeship provides hands‑on experience in scenic painting techniques used to bring stage designs to life. The apprentice will work closely with scenic artists, designers, and production staff, learning how to translate scenic concepts into physical surfaces and textures. This position offers the opportunity to assist on Mainstage shows, new play workshops, and special events, gaining a deep understanding of how scenic painting contributes to storytelling and theatrical design.

Typical

Duties Include:

• Assist scenic artists in mixing paints, preparing surfaces, and applying base coats and top finishes. (20%)
• Learn and apply various faux finishing techniques, such as wood grain, marble, brick, and metal effects. (15%)
• Participate in scenic touch‑ups and maintenance throughout the run of shows. (10%)
• Assist in the layout and scaling of scenic elements from designer renderings and elevations. (10%)
• Collaborate with designers and production staff during load‑ins and tech rehearsals, ensuring scenic elements meet design requirements. (10%)
• Help maintain scenic painting tools, materials, and inventory, ensuring an organized and safe workspace. (10%)

• Track paint usage and material costs to support budget management. (5%)
• Provide scenic support for special events and interdepartmental projects, including workshops, galas, and rentals. (5%)
• Attend production meetings to coordinate scenic painting with other departments, including scenic construction and lighting. (5%)
• Participate in workshops, networking events, and scenic‑related outings to develop professional skills and industry connections. (5%)
• Shadow scenic artists and designers to gain insight into the artistic process and technical execution of scenic painting. (5%)
• Commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion: A desire to foster a welcoming and respectful environment for all.
• Attention to detail:
  Ability to follow design specifications and replicate textures and finishes accurately.
• Organizational skills:
  Ability to manage tasks efficiently in a fast‑paced environment.
• Collaborative mindset:
  Willingness to work closely with scenic artists, designers, and production staff.
• Problem‑solving abilities:
  Ability to adapt and troubleshoot challenges as they arise.
• Communication skills:
  Clear and respectful verbal communication when working with team members.
• Technical proficiency:
  Familiarity with paint tools, materials, and techniques is a plus, but a willingness to learn is essential.
• Initiative and ownership:
  Comfortable taking responsibility for assigned tasks independently.
• Physical stamina:
  Ability to stand for extended periods, lift materials, and work at heights (e.g., ladders and scaffolds).

This apprenticeship offers invaluable hands‑on experience in scenic painting for professional theatre productions. It provides the practical skills and knowledge necessary to pursue a career as a scenic artist or production painter.

ACCEPTABLE WORK SAMPLES:

Either four photographs of your design work or a link to a digital portfolio or website that includes photographs of your work.

TO BE CONSIDERED

Review the minimum requirements for the opportunity.

Complete all areas of the online application.

Attach a resume.

Letter of interest (cover letter).

Submit a Work Sample using the above guidelines.

Applications will be reviewed once the position has closed.

Seattle Rep has a mandatory COVID vaccination policy for all employees, with accommodations for medical and religious exemptions only.