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Prop Master/Scenic Designer

Ampa Events · Virginia, MN, USA ·

Job type:
Full Time

Also known as, Technical Director, Design Fabricator, & Display DesignerBuild Extraordinary ExperiencesFor nearly 30 years, Ampa Events has designed, fabricated, and produced unforgettable experiences across corporate events, themed environments, exhibits, brand activations, galas, and special events.We're looking for a skilled Lead Finish Carpenter / Scenic Fabricator who takes pride in craftsmanship and enjoys transforming ideas into physical reality. This role combines custom fabrication, finish carpentry, scenic construction, installation leadership, and creative problem‑solving.Whether your background comes from scenic fabrication, custom millwork, exhibit construction, themed entertainment, museum exhibits, trade show fabrication, architecture, sign fabrication, or another skilled trade, we're interested in builders who can create polished, client‑facing work and lead projects from concept through installation.This is a hands‑on role for someone who enjoys building, leading crews, solving challenges, and producing work that exceeds expectations.What You'll DoFabrication & ConstructionFabricate custom scenic elements, marketing displays, environments, props, and specialty piecesExecute high‑quality finish carpentry, scenic finishing, painting, detailing, and assembly workWork with a wide range of materials, including wood, foam, acrylic, metal, plastics, fabrics, laminates, scenic materials, and specialty finishesInterpret renderings, sketches, drawings, and fabrication plans to produce finished workDevelop practical fabrication solutions that balance design intent, durability, logistics, and budgetAssist in maintaining and expanding Ampa's specialty inventory and fabrication capabilitiesLead fabrication efforts on assigned projectsSupervise installation crews and ensure quality execution on‑siteCoordinate with designers, project managers, vendors, and production teamsMonitor schedules, budgets, and production timelinesMaintain a safe, organized, and efficient work environmentInstallation & Field WorkLead installation and strike activities for events and projectsTravel to project sites as requiredTroubleshoot field conditions and implement creative solutions onsiteParticipate in occasional evening and weekend installations as project schedules requireDesign & Creative SupportCreate or modify shop drawings and fabrication details using CAD software when neededAssist with renderings, sketches, prototypes and mockups as appropriateHelp translate creative concepts into buildable, cost‑effective solutionsShow Us Your WorkWe care more about what you've built than where you learned to build it.Applicants should provide examples of relevant work, which may include:Project photographyCustom carpentry projectsExhibits and displaysScenic environmentsProps and specialty buildsTrade show installationsPersonal projectsWebsite galleriesSocial media galleriesIf you're proud of what you've made, we want to see it.Required QualificationsMinimum 5 years of relevant experience in finish carpentry, scenic fabrication, custom construction, exhibit fabrication, event production, millwork, themed entertainment, museum exhibits, sign fabrication, or a related fieldStrong finish carpentry skills with the ability to produce polished, client‑facing workStrong scenic finishing, painting, detailing, and assembly skillsExperience working with a variety of materials including wood, foam, acrylic, metal, plastics, fabrics, and specialty finishesAbility to interpret drawings, renderings, sketches, and fabrication plansFamiliarity with CAD software and technical drawing workflowsStrong understanding of construction techniques, fabrication methods, and material applicationsExperience managing schedules, budgets, and project executionAbility to lead crews and supervise installationsStrong communication and problem‑solving skillsAbility to work independently and collaborativelyAbility to lift and carry up to 75 pounds safelyValid driver's license and reliable transportationPreferred QualificationsExperience with sculpture, prop fabrication, mold making, casting, or specialty fabrication techniquesExperience with CNC equipment, laser cutting, 3D printing, or other digital fabrication methodsExperience with SketchUp, Vectorworks, Rhino, Revit, Adobe Creative Suite, or similar softwareExperience driving box trucks, trailers, or operating equipment related to event productionExperience in experiential marketing, trade shows, museums, live events, themed entertainment, or immersive environmentsRendering, illustration, or visualization skillsWhat Makes This Role UniqueThis isn't a production‑line fabrication job.You'll help create one‑of‑a‑kind environments, displays, and experiences that people remember. One week you might be fabricating a custom activation, the next building scenic elements for a gala, corporate event, exhibit, or immersive environment.You'll work alongside designers, fabricators, artists, and event professionals who believe exceptional experiences are built through creativity, craftsmanship, and attention to detail.Competitive compensationHealth insurance401(k) with company matchingPaid time offProfessional growth opportunitiesCollaborative and creative work environment#J-18808-Ljbffr