Scenic Painter

Location: Chicagoland – Southwest Suburbs
Position Type: Temporary / Project-Based Overhire
Compensation: $26–$35 per hour, based on experience
Schedule: Project-dependent; daytime availability preferred, with occasional extended hours as deadlines require

L3D is seeking dependable scenic artists and painters for project-based work creating themed environments, dimensional scenery, props, and specialty finishes.

We are particularly interested in painters who have experience using HVLP spray equipment or airless sprayers. Experience with either system is preferred but not required. Candidates with strong brush, roller, glazing, stippling, sponging, distressing, faux-finishing, or other scenic-painting techniques are also encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities may include:

• Preparing, priming, base-coating, and finishing dimensional scenic elements
• Applying paint with HVLP, airless, brush, roller, and other appropriate methods
• Creating aged, distressed, weathered, metallic, stone, wood, concrete, rust, and other specialty finishes
• Mixing and color-matching paints and coatings
• Masking and protecting adjacent surfaces
• Working from renderings, reference images, samples, and direction from project leads
• Properly setting up, operating, cleaning, and maintaining spray equipment
• Following all shop safety, ventilation, PPE, and respiratory-protection requirements
• Maintaining an organized work area and meeting project schedules

Preferred qualifications:

• Scenic painting, theatrical production, themed entertainment, mural, prop, display, or specialty-finishing experience
• Experience operating an HVLP or airless sprayer
• Understanding of spray patterns, viscosity, pressure settings, tip selection, masking, and equipment cleaning
• Ability to reproduce an approved finish consistently across multiple pieces
• Strong color-matching and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work independently while taking direction and collaborating with a fabrication team
• Dependability and willingness to work within project-driven schedules

Theatre students, recent graduates, freelance scenic artists, and experienced specialty painters are encouraged to apply. Professional experience is helpful, but a strong portfolio, practical skill, reliability, and willingness to learn are equally important.

To apply, please submit:

• A brief introduction and summary of relevant experience
• Resume or work history
• Portfolio, website, or photographs of completed work
• Specific experience with HVLP, airless, or other spray equipment
• General availability
• Two professional references, if available

Selected candidates may be invited to complete a paid practical skills evaluation before being scheduled for project work.