Upper School Performing Arts Scenic & Graphic Designer

Position Summary

Harvard-Westlake School, an independent high school in Studio City, seeks a dynamic and versatile artist to represent the visual voice of the school’s vibrant performing arts program. This individual creates scenic design and oversees set construction for plays and musicals, manages backstage operations for all productions, and produces cohesive visual materials for performances and events. This two-pronged role manages how performances and events look, feel, and function, shaping the visual identity and public presence of the performing arts program across campus and digital platforms. Working collaboratively with faculty, students, and administrators, the Scenic & Graphic Designer ensures that all performances and events are visually compelling, technically sound, and executed safely within an educational setting.

Key Responsibilities

Theatre & Design

• Working collaboratively with production directors, create scenic designs for a fall play and a spring musical each year.
• Oversee scenic construction, installation, and strike for each production. This includes ordering materials, managing contractors, scheduling, and shop safety.
• Support student directors and designers by providing mentorship and materials for the student-driven New Play Festival.
• Collaborate with the dance department on dance concert design; provide labor and materials for the stage set up.
• Manage the school’s prop storage and serve as Properties Master for all three theatrical productions.
• Recruit and coordinate student stage crews for all performing arts productions across theatre, music, and dance.
• Maintain scenic inventory, backstage spaces, tools, and production equipment and recommend maintenance as needed.
• Seek professional development to keep the program in line with current industry development and general standards.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards and best practices.

Event Management & Organization

• Coordinate logistical needs for theatrical productions, assemblies, and campus-wide events. Create and manage run-of-show documents in collaboration with faculty and event stakeholders
• Manage backstage operations for school events. Coordinate load-ins, changeovers, and strikes for assemblies, ceremonies, and special events.
• Recruit, train, and supervise student backstage and run crews.
• Assist with venue coordination, room setups, and equipment needs for performing arts classes.
• Provide organizational support for Performing Arts programs, which could include tasks like maintaining a sheet music catalog, assisting with instrument upkeep and inventory, and/or consulting on special events requests.

Graphic Design & Marketing

• Create or oversee graphic materials for productions and events, including posters, programs, signage, and digital assets.
  • In collaboration with directors and program heads, create a marketing calendar across the Performing Arts and ensure deadlines are met
• Maintain consistent visual branding for the performing arts program.
• Collaborate with program heads to coordinate social media campaigns for events and performances.
• Collaborate with school marketing or communications departments to develop a brochure and other marketing materials that will be shared with families across both divisions.

Teaching Responsibilities

• Teach one section of Stagecraft I, a yearlong class that focuses on the fundamentals of stage management and scenic design.
• Mentor students in scenic design, technical theatre, and backstage leadership as needed.
• Model professional rehearsal and production practices.
• Foster creativity, collaboration, and responsibility in student crews.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor’s degree and equivalent professional experience in scenic design, theatre production, or a related field.
• Experience designing and implementing scenic designs for live theatrical performance.
• Proficiency with drafting and design software (Vectorworks, AutoCAD, SketchUp, or similar).
• Proficiency with graphic design tools (Adobe Creative Suite or equivalent).
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Ability and enthusiasm for supervising and mentoring high school students.
• Knowledge of theatre safety practices and shop procedures.
• Comfort with heights and ladders.
• Basic understanding of social media logistics and trends

Preferred

• Experience working in an educational or youth-centered environment.
• Experience with rigging and welding.
• Carpentry experience and ability to construct sets.
• Demonstrated ability to support multiple productions or events simultaneously.

Personal Attributes

• Personable, patient, and supportive teaching mindset
• Collaborative and student-centered
• Clear and compassionate communicator
• Flexible, solutions-oriented, and calm under pressure
• Passionate about arts education and mentorship
• Detail-oriented with strong visual sensibility

About Harvard-Westlake

Harvard-Westlake is an independent school with two campuses in Los Angeles and approximately 1,600 students enrolled in grades 7–12. Classes for grades 7–9 take place on the Middle School campus in the Holmbly Hills neighborhood, while grades 10–12 are housed on the Upper School campus in Studio City. A third campus, River Park, focused on athletics and recreation, is scheduled to open in Fall 2026.

We are dedicated to fostering a community of belonging and continually advancing diversity and inclusion across all aspects of school life. We do not discriminate on any basis and seek educators and staff who bring sensitivity, understanding, and respect for individuals from diverse backgrounds; who can work collaboratively and independently in a dynamic environment; and who exemplify professionalism, openness, and generosity in their interactions with students and colleagues.

Compensation

This is a full-time, exempt position. Estimated annual salary is $105,000 – $120,000, depending on experience.

Schedule

Typically Monday through Friday; evening and weekend work is required during production periods and special events.

Benefits

This position is eligible for Harvard-Westlake’s full benefits package, which includes:

• High-quality medical, dental, and vision coverage with low or no premium contributions
• Cafeteria allowance — enjoy breakfast and lunch through our on-campus dining program
• 403(b) retirement plan with employer contribution
• Mental wellness resources and workshops
• Employee Affinity and Resource Groups
• Complimentary tickets to local sporting and entertainment events
• Discount at the school bookstore — stock up on HW spirit wear!
• Paid holidays, including Thanksgiving, Winter Break, and Spring Break