La Jolla Playhouse

Properties Carpenter

Posted: Nov 6, 2025

Job Description

DEPARTMENT: Production - PropsCLASSIFICATION: Full-Time, Non-Exempt (Hourly), IATSE Local 122PAY: $29.95 per hourLOCATION: La Jolla, CA on the beautiful UC San Diego campusSCHEDULE: Regular weekday work with occasional overtime, weekend and/or holiday workREPORTS TO: Props SupervisorSUPERVISES: NoneWORKS WITH: Staff, Visiting Artists and Designers, IATSE Labor, UC San Diego Residents and StudentsRequired Application MaterialsCover letter, resume, and referencesAbout The PositionWorking closely with designers, technicians and artisans, The Properties Carpenter is responsible for the production, creation, procurement and refurbishment of stage props for produced or presented productions of La Jolla Playhouse. Key to the success of those projects, the Properties Carpenter is responsible for creating, building, maintaining, or obtaining stage properties for the load-in, set up and strike of those productions. The strongest candidate is an artist, craftsperson and technician who is committed to the artistic vision and mission of La Jolla Playhouse.RESPONSIBILITIES:Construct, maintain, craft and/or obtain properties in a timely, safe and efficient manner using standard theatrical construction practices. Organize and maintain assigned shop workspaces. Participate in shop cleanup, special projects, and prop shop maintenance. Work load ins and strikes. Pack and prepare props to be shipped for shows that are transferring. Inform Lead Artisan of shop material needs in a timely manner. Participate in stock transfer to and from warehouses, theatres and rehearsal halls as needed. Touch up, repair and maintain items from current productions. Build rehearsal props. Provide work direction or mentorship to overhire staff. Unpack, repair, maintain and repack shows that are presented from coproductions. Troubleshoot and solve problems to maintain the artistic integrity of the production. Attend production meetings, tech rehearsals, previews, and note sessions as requested by the Props Supervisor. Support and embody the mission and values of La Jolla Playhouse when collaborating with all theatre personnel, professional creative teams, staff, management and visiting artists. In conjunction with the Props Supervisor, coordinate with UC San Diego Theatre and Dance personnel to ensure mutual success for all projects utilizing the Theatre District and other areas on campus. QUALIFICATIONS:Demonstrated experience in a theatrical prop department or equivalent experience and training in related fields (such as woodworking, cabinetry, restoration). Strong woodworking and prop carpentry skills, including cabinetry and finish work. Basic welding is often needed. Strong welding skills are a plus. Ability to read and produce stage props from prop drawings. Knowledge of materials and construction techniques to effectively create props. Willingness to experiment with materials and learn new techniques. Knowledge of and dedication to safe working practices. Ability to creatively problemsolve and think outside the box. Must have strong critical thinking, attention to detail, troubleshooting, and organizational skills, and the drive to see projects through from beginning to end. Ability to multitask and work under time constraints while maintaining a positive attitude. Ability to reliably commute to the worksite. REQUIRED COMPETENCIES:Cultural Competency: An understanding of inclusive principles and practices, and the ability to interact effectively with people of different cultures and backgrounds. Communication Competency: The ability to communicate respectfully and transparently. Relationship Management: Excellent social and collaborative skills with an emphasis on building and maintaining meaningful and reciprocal relationships. Project Execution: Strong attention to detail. Ability to manage competing priorities and follow through. Ability to productively question the status quo and engage in solutionoriented thinking. Time Management: The ability to efficiently manage time, effort and decisionmaking skills. PHYSICAL DEMANDS:This role involves various physical tasks; accommodations are available to support individuals with disabilities.Stands frequently and occasionally sits, squats, or kneels. Some tasks may involve working at heights (ladders, catwalks, and grids). Frequently lifts or moves heavy items. Safely operates machinery and power tools. Ability to work extended hours. WORK ENVIRONMENT:Interior scene shop exposure to dust/fumes PPE provided. Noisy environment hearing protection required. Varied physical conditions from dark/quiet to bright/loud.

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