🔹 Job Title: Lead, Art Department Creative
🔹 Company: Academy of Art University
🔹 Location: San Francisco, CA
🔹 Job Type: Full-Time
🔹 Category: Entertainment
🔹 Date Posted: July 11, 2025
🔹 Experience Level: 2-5 years
🔹 Remote Status: On-site
Key aspects of this role include:
ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strong creative vision, excellent communication skills, and the ability to work well under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
✅ Coordinate with the Vice President on the status of the sound stage sets in relationship to their use for classes
✅ Partner with the Lab Resources MPT Shop Manager to ensure no service or safety gaps exist
✅ Consult with students and faculty on set dressing, construction, props, and budget for classes and all shoots in relation to Academy of Art University business
✅ Supervise the scenic art design shop and maintain a safe and organized workshop
✅ Build flats, props, set dressing and other required items for studios and productions
✅ Repair and maintain furniture used on sets and in all Schools of Entertainment Productions and Related Filmed Projects
✅ Source, order, and purchase items within the approved budget
✅ Assist with pick up of donated items for sound stages
✅ Participate in maintaining inventory of furniture and other items used on sets and in all related Academy of Art University and Schools of Entertainment shoots and productions
✅ Supervise assigned staff and partner with the Lab Resources MPT Shop Manager on safety training
✅ Perform the duties of Production Designer, Set Dresser, and Props Supervisor as defined in the Entertainment Industry on productions affiliated with the Academy of Art University
✅ Create drawings for set requirements and effectively set up to look like different locations - Interior & Exterior
✅ Compile detailed estimates on projects related to the sound stages for the Vice President’s approval
✅ Coordinate the labor, supplies, and other items needed to create the locations needed for classes held on the sound stages
✅ Design specs (CAD) to scale on ground plans and elevations
✅ Design and builds doors, walls, and other needed items to accommodate spaces in the Townsend building
ASSUMPTION: This role involves a varied work schedule, including nights and weekends, and requires the ability to work in a fast-paced and deadline-driven environment.
Education: Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts, Theater, or a related field preferred
Experience: 2-5 years of experience in art department roles, preferably in film, television, or theater
Required Skills:
Preferred Skills:
ASSUMPTION: Candidates with experience in art department roles and a strong portfolio demonstrating their creative vision and technical skills are preferred.
Salary Range: $30 - $35.00 per hour, depending on experience
Benefits:
Working Hours: Full-time, with a varied work schedule including nights and weekends
ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is an estimate based on industry standards for similar roles in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Industry: Higher Education, specifically focused on the entertainment industry
Company Size: Medium (approximately 1,000 employees)
Founded: 1929, with a rich history in art and design education
Company Description:
Company Specialties:
Company Website: Academy of Art University
ASSUMPTION: Academy of Art University is a well-established institution with a strong reputation in the art and design community. Its focus on industry-relevant education and real-world experience makes it an attractive option for students and professionals alike.
Career Level: Mid-level, with opportunities for growth and advancement
Reporting Structure: Reports directly to the Vice President, Schools of Entertainment
Work Arrangement: On-site, with a varied work schedule including nights and weekends
Growth Opportunities:
ASSUMPTION: This role offers a unique opportunity to gain valuable experience in a fast-paced, creative environment while working alongside industry professionals.
Office Type: On-site, with multiple locations throughout San Francisco
Office Location(s): 466 Townsend Street, San Francisco, CA 94107
Geographic Context:
Work Schedule: Full-time, with a varied work schedule including nights and weekends
ASSUMPTION: The work environment is fast-paced and deadline-driven, with a strong emphasis on collaboration and teamwork.
Typical Process:
Key Assessment Areas:
Application Tips:
ATS Keywords: Art Department, Creative, Set Design, Props, Construction, Production, Entertainment, Film, Theater, CAD, MS Office, Adobe
ASSUMPTION: The application process for this role may involve multiple interviews and assessments, with a strong emphasis on creative vision and technical skills.
ASSUMPTION: Proficiency in MS Office and Adobe software is required, while experience with CAD and entertainment industry-specific software is preferred.
Company Values:
Work Style:
Self-Assessment Questions:
ASSUMPTION: Academy of Art University values creativity, innovation, and collaboration, and seeks candidates who are passionate about the arts and committed to delivering high-quality results.
ASSUMPTION: This role may present challenges related to the fast-paced nature of the work, the varied work schedule, and the need to collaborate effectively with a diverse team.
ASSUMPTION: This role is similar to other art department roles in the entertainment industry, but is unique in its focus on the university setting and the need to collaborate with students and faculty.
ASSUMPTION: Sample projects for this role may include designing and building sets for student film projects, collaborating with faculty to create visually stunning sets for classroom use, and managing the construction and repair of furniture used on sets and in productions.
ASSUMPTION: Key questions to ask during the interview may include inquiries about the challenges and opportunities presented by the role, as well as questions about the university's support for professional development and work-life balance.
To apply for this position:
⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.