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Are you looking for a designer job in theatre? This might be the role for you! Work as a Designer full time and design for the theatre and create sets, props, costumes and more!
The Role
The Designer is responsible for developing conceptual solutions for visual or creative technical elements of a production. Their work may include costume, set, puppet and prop design but can also include lighting, video or audio design. They are also responsible for executing these elements with support from other staff members when available.
Type of Engagement: Full time
Start Date: June 9th 2026
End Date: July 31st 2026
Compensation: $5,040 ($18/hr)
This role is part of Summer Ensemble 2026.
What Is Summer Ensemble?
Summer Ensemble is a one of a kind work experience for artists pursuing a career in the Canadian theatre industry. Summer Ensemble hires artists between the ages of 18 to 30 to work full time over the course of several weeks. Along the way, learn valuable skills and gain experience in this fast-paced, intense program.
Working At Summer Ensemble
Job Description
Tasks and Responsibilities
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Design, build, and/or purchase, and/or adapt, paint, construct visual elements of the play such as set elements, costumes, props and/or puppets.
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Work closely with the director on deciding how the visual manifestation of the play looks like and what it represents.
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Create drafts, sketches, plans, drawings, models and/or prototypes that assist in visualization of the design elements and their construction.
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Purchase materials or items used in design.
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Read the play or project brief.
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Consult with a director regarding requirements for the design.
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Consult with a technical director and facilities manager regarding technical capacity for the design to be realized.
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Manage a budget allocated by the senior staff.
This is a learning on the job role and will also entail the following requirements:
- Watch videos containing acting techniques and exercises;
- Watch video of professional productions;
- With the help of a mentor learn how to evaluate professional theatre’s elements;
- Participate in learning activities about professional companies (employers) in Canada, and internationally;
- Participate in learning activities about funding bodies and grants;
- Participate in learning activities how a budget for an independently produced show is created and create a budget for a dream show;
- Examine different digital tools used by theatre artists;
- Discuss and debate elements of professional productions and acting techniques;
- Learn how to write and edit a blogpost under supervision and mentorship;
- Writing 1 blog post per week.
Reports to
Director, Artistic Director
Requirements:
- Be available to work online and in person at our theatre (3650 Dixie Rd, Mississauga, ON L4Y 3V9) and studio (2359 Royal Windsor Drive Unit 210, Mississauga, ON L5J 4S9).
- Be available for all dates and hours stated in contract.
- Be a Canadian Citizen, have a PR, or refugee status.
- Be between 18 – 30 years of age at the start of the program.
Education and Experience:
Experience and Education in Theatre is preferred, but not required.
Skills:
- Knowledge of How To Use Power Tools (Hammer, Drill, Nails, Screws)
- Sewing (for costume designers)
- Knowledge of design softwares for theatre (ie. Autocad, Vectorworks) (for set designers)
- Working with different modelling materials
Languages:
English. Knowledge of any other language is a plus.
Location:
Mississauga (Crane Creations Studio, and Maja Prentice Theatre)
Past Designers In The Summer Ensemble
Learn who has worked as a Designer in the Summer Ensemble in the past. Get to know our previous designers!
Application Process
How To Apply
Click the button below to apply. Before applying make sure you have read the Job Description and Requirements thoroughly.
Deadline To Apply: November 20 2025
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