Junior Set Designer

A set designer is in charge of designing and creating the sets that appear in films and television programmes as well as in the theatre. The role involves working with and communicating with directors, producers, costume designers and other members of staff.
Typical responsibilities include:

• reading scripts
• producing plans, drawings and models of sets
• preparing estimates of set costs
• managing budgets
• viewing possible outside broadcast sites
• planning
• attending rehearsals/film takes
• meeting with and commissioning set construction companies.

Responsibilities

• Typical responsibilities include:
  
  
  • reading scripts
  • producing plans, drawings and models of sets
  • preparing estimates of set costs
  • managing budgets
  • viewing possible outside broadcast sites
  • planning
  • attending rehearsals/film takes
  • meeting with and commissioning set construction companies.

Required SkillsAlthough there are routes into this profession for both university graduates and school leavers, employers will prefer candidates with degrees in theatre studies, creative arts, performing arts, drama, fine arts, visual arts, graphic design, 3D design, illustration, architecture or landscape architecture.
The ability to demonstrate a genuine interest in, knowledge of and experience of visual arts, television, film or theatre is essential, and often more important than academic qualifications.
Job shadowing and unpaid/vacation work experience can be helpful. It is essential to make speculative applications – directories such as KFTV and Kays Production Manual contain useful contact information.

Key Skills

• Stamina
• Creativity
• Enthusiasm
• Determination
• Perseverance
• Imagination
• Adaptability
• Working well under pressure
• Good spatial awareness
• Technical skills