Decor painter, film

What does a film set designer do – tasks and work environment

A film set designer works on transforming environments and backdrops into visually appealing scenes that support the story in a film production. The role involves painting, patinating, and decorating backdrops, props, and scenography elements according to the scenographer's instructions. Tasks require both artistic sensibility and technical skill, as surfaces often need to be aged, distorted, or given special effects. The work is often carried out in teams alongside other set designers, carpenters, and scenographers, and environments can vary between film studios, temporary construction sites, and outdoor locations. Irregular working hours are common, especially during intensive filming periods, and the work environment can sometimes be dusty, noisy, or involve working at heights.

Salary development over time

The salary for film set designers has shown steady and positive growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 38,300 SEK per month, which increased to 39100 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary continued upward to 41 100 SEK, representing an increase of approximately 7.3% over the period. This trend reflects the increasing demand for skilled craftsmen in the film industry, in line with more Swedish and international productions. Salary development can also be explained by employers competing for experienced and specialized set designers, while the industry demands higher technical and artistic competence. Variations between years may partly depend on the size and budget of productions, as well as union negotiations within the cultural sector.

Film set designer salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 41 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 36,200 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 45,600 SEK/month
• Hourly wage: 247 SEK
• Women: 40 200 SEK/month (91% of men's salary)
• Men: 44,400 SEK/month
• Regional differences: No detailed information available

Education and qualifications

To work as a film set designer, an artistic or craft-oriented education is usually required, often focusing on scenography, decoration or painting. Many have completed vocational training in decoration painting or artistic programs at high school, and documented experience from internships or projects in film, theater, or similar creative environments is often sought after. Practical skills and the ability to work in teams are highly valued, and further training in specialized techniques can be advantageous.

• High school education: Artistic programs with focus on visual arts (3 years)
• Vocational college: Decoration painter, scenography, or similar (2 years)
• Certifications: Courses in specialized techniques, e.g., aging or patination
• Internships: Strongly recommended in film, theater, or TV production
• Prerequisites: Good painting and color theory skills, sometimes portfolio submission for admission

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for film set designers include union-approved insurances, overtime pay for irregular hours, and access to wellness allowances. Some employers also offer professional development and further training in specialized techniques. Work clothing and protective equipment are typically provided, and larger productions may sometimes offer benefits such as catering and accommodation during filming at other locations.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs as a film set designer can be tough, especially on larger productions where demand for experienced and skilled professionals is high. Long working hours and periods of intense work require physical endurance and stress management. Since film projects are often time-limited, set designers must be prepared for uncertainty between assignments, which can make it challenging to plan for stable income. The lack of permanent employment is common in the industry, and networking is often crucial for securing new assignments. At the same time, the profession offers great opportunities for development through experience, collaborations, and specialization in various techniques.

Tips for aspiring film set designers

To succeed as a film set designer, it’s good to be both creative and meticulous, as the profession demands attention to detail and artistic expression. Showing flexibility and the ability to quickly adapt to different work environments is valuable, especially as workdays vary and productions change. Building a strong network within the industry is advisable, as many assignments are obtained through recommendations and contacts. Good teamwork skills facilitate collaboration with other creative professionals, and being solution-oriented helps with quick changes and unexpected challenges. Continually developing technical skills, such as taking courses in new painting techniques or materials, can also strengthen employment prospects. Lastly, patience and perseverance are key, as securing permanent assignments can take time but often leads to rewarding and varied work.

Key facts about film set designers

• Average salary: 41 100 SEK/month
• Educational level: High school or vocational training with artistic focus
• Work environment: Varies – studio, outdoors, temporary workplaces
• Number of job openings: 620
• Typical employment type: Project-based or temporary employment

Career paths and outlook

After three to five years as a film set designer, many have gained broad experience across different genres and production types, which can lead to more qualified roles such as lead set designer, scenography assistant, or head of the decoration department. Some choose to specialize in advanced techniques, such as aging, patination, or digital painting. Others continue into related areas such as theater, TV, or advertising. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, there are currently no precise forecasts for the future outlook of film set designers, but within the group "Interior designers, decorators, and scenographers," 620 job openings are reported, indicating some demand. However, the industry is affected by variations in production activity and funding, so job availability may fluctuate over time.

Frequently asked questions about film set designers

• What does a film set designer earn?
  - A film set designer has an average salary of 41 100 SEK per month.
• How has the salary development been for film set designers?
  - The salary has increased from 38,300 SEK in 2022 to 41 100 SEK in 2024, which corresponds to an increase of just over 7%.
• What education is required to become a film set designer?
  - Usually, a high school or vocational education in art, painting, or scenography, along with practical experience, is required.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - Yes, women earn on average 91% of what men do in the profession.
• What career options are available after a few years in the profession?
  - Possible paths include lead set designer, scenography assistant, project manager, or specialization in advanced techniques.
• What is the job market like for film set designers?
  - Currently, there are 620 job openings, but demand varies depending on production activity.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for film set designers?
  - The highest salary is 45,600 SEK and the lowest is 36,200 SEK per month.