Assistant Scenic Carpenter

Career Guide

An Assistant Scenic Carpenter supports the build, installation, and strike of scenery for theatre, live events, film, and television. The role focuses on safe, accurate construction, working closely with scenic carpenters, technical directors, and other shop teams to meet deadlines and quality standards.

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Key Responsibilities

Build scenic units from drawings and build notes
Measure, mark, and cut lumber and sheet goods accurately
Assemble scenery using fasteners, adhesives, and joinery methods
Install scenery on stage or on set under supervision
Support rigging tasks as assigned and within training limits
Maintain a clean and safe work area in the shop and on site
Inspect tools and report maintenance needs
Load and unload scenery and materials safely
Support scenic repairs during rehearsals and run periods
Assist with strike and storage of scenic elements

Top Skills for Success

Tape Measure Accuracy

Carpentry Fundamentals

Power Tool Operation

Hand Tool Use

Blueprint Reading

Shop Safety

Material Handling

Hardware Selection

Quality Control

Time Management

Teamwork

Clear Communication

Career Progression

Can Lead To

Scenic Carpenter

Head Carpenter

Scenic Shop Lead

Technical Director

Transition Opportunities

Stage Carpenter

Props Carpenter

Set Dresser

Construction Coordinator

Common Skill Gaps

Often Missing Skills

Blueprint ReadingCut List PreparationFastener KnowledgeRigging AwarenessLoad In WorkflowFinish CarpentryTool MaintenanceMaterial Estimation

Development SuggestionsAsk to shadow a scenic carpenter during layout and install days, practice reading drawings with a supervisor, and build a small portfolio of shop photos that show clean construction and safe work habits. Take a basic safety course and request sign off on specific tools as you gain proficiency.

Salary & Demand

Median Salary Range

Entry LevelUSD 18 to 25 per hour

Mid LevelUSD 25 to 35 per hour

Senior LevelUSD 35 to 50 per hour

Growth Trend

Steady demand tied to live events, regional theatre seasons, touring productions, and local film and television activity. Hiring spikes around production builds and event seasons, with pay varying widely by city, union coverage, and project length.

Companies Hiring

Major Employers

Regional theatresTouring production companiesLive event production companiesFilm and television studiosScenic fabrication shopsTheme parksMuseums and exhibition builders

Industry Sectors

Performing ArtsLive EventsFilm and TelevisionExperiential MarketingVisitor AttractionsExhibitions

Recommended Next Steps

Build a simple portfolio with 10 to 15 photos showing builds, installs, and details

Create a one page resume that lists tools you can use safely and projects you have supported

Ask a supervisor for a skills checklist covering the shop’s most used tools and methods

Seek short contracts with theatres, event shops, or fabrication houses to increase build volume

Complete an OSHA 10 or equivalent safety course if available in your region

Learn to read basic scenic drawings and practice taking accurate measurements quickly

Network with local scenic shops and production managers for upcoming build calls