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For Educators: Military Resources

Set and Exhibit Designers

Median Salary
59,490
Job Outlook
+2%

Overview

What are the responsibilities of this role?

Design special exhibits and sets for film, video, television, and theater productions. May study scripts, confer with directors, and conduct research to determine appropriate architectural styles.

What is the job outlook?

Employment of set and exhibit designers is projected to grow 5 percent from 2023 to 2033, about as fast as the average for all occupations. About 2,400 openings for set and exhibit designers are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

Compensation

What is the typical salary range?

$16,280

10%

$59,490

Median

$84,590

90%

How does location impact how much salary?

Education

What level of education do professionals in this role have?

Education Level

  • Master's degree

    33%

  • Bachelor's degree

    33%

  • Some college

    9%

  • Post-master's certificate

    9%

  • Doctoral degree

    4%

  • Associate's degree

    4%

  • First professional degree

    4%

Which college majors best prepare you for this role?

  • Design and Visual Communications, General
  • Technical Theatre/Theatre Design and Technology
  • Illustration

Skills and Interest

Which skill sets are the most valuable to possess?

Skills

  • Leadership

    High

  • Math and Science Skills

    High

  • Technology Design and Control

    High

  • Verbal Skills

    Mid

  • Equipment Operation and Maintenance

    Mid

  • Critical Thinking and Problem Solving

    Mid

What knowledge should you bring to the table?

  • Fine Arts
  • Design
  • Computers and Electronics
  • Building and Construction
  • History and Archeology

What challenges will you likely face in the workplace?

Workplace

  • Time Pressure

    High

  • Level Of Competition

    High

  • Exposure to Job Hazards

    Mid

  • Physical Activity

    Mid

  • Repetitiveness

    Low

  • Responsibility

    Low

  • Decision Making

    Low

What personality traits help people thrive in this role?

Artistic

You love creating things and expressing yourself through art, writing and music.

RIASEC represents six broad interest areas—Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, and Conventional—helping individuals identify careers that match their skills and preferences.

Take the RIASEC Test

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Data supplied by Bureau of Labor Statistics, National Center of Education Statistics, Defense Manpower Data Center (View our update schedule). Contact any business, college or military service branch to answer additional questions.