Profession prop maker
Prop makers construct, build, prepare, adapt and maintain props used on stage and for filming movies or television programs. Props may be simple imitations of real life objects, or may include electronic, pyrotechnical, or other effects. Their work is based on artistic vision, sketches and plans. They work in close cooperation with the designers involved in the production.
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Prop maker Jobs: Open positions
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Personality Type
Skills
- Build devices into props
Build mechanical or electrical devices into props.
- Work safely with mobile electrical systems under supervision
Take the necessary precautions while providing temporary power distribution for performance and art facility purposes under supervision.
- Adapt props
Adapt existing props for use in a specific production.
- Maintain props
Check, maintain and repair props.
- Work ergonomically
Apply ergonomy principles in the organisation of the workplace while manually handling equipment and materials.
- Prepare personal work environment
Correct settings or positions for your working instruments and adjust them before starting operations.
- Maintain workshop space
Keep the workshop space in working order and clean.
- Finish project within budget
Make sure to stay within budget. Adapt work and materials to budget.
- Translate artistic concepts to technical designs
Cooperate with the artistic team in order to facilitate the transition from the creative vision and its artistic concepts to a technical design.
- Interpret artistic intentions
Interpret the artistic intentions of the author.
- Understand artistic concepts
Interpret an artist's explanation or demonstration of their artistic concepts, inceptions and processes and strive to share their vision.
- Develop prop effects
Work with creative personnel to design special effects involving props using mechanical or electrical devices. Advise on feasibility and develop the needed prop effects.
- Maintain theatre equipment
Check up on, maintain and repair tools and machinery used for onstage purposes, such as lighting equipment, stage sets or scene-change machinery.
- Build props
Build props from a variety of materials, working with the design staff to create the appropriate prop for the production.
- Follow work schedule
Manage the sequence of activities in order to deliver completed work on agreed deadlines by following a work schedule.
- Prevent fire in a performance environment
Take steps to prevent fire in a performance environment. Make sure the space complies with fire safety rules, with sprinklers and fire extinguishers installed where necessary. Make sure staff are aware of fire prevention measures.
- Work with respect for own safety
Apply the safety rules according to training and instruction and based on a solid understanding of the prevention measures and risks to your own personal health and safety.
- Keep up with trends
Monitor and follow new trends and developments in specific sectors.
- Work safely with chemicals
Take the necessary precautions for storing, using and disposing chemical products.
- Define prop building methods
Decide on how to build the necessary props and document the process.
- Adapt to artists' creative demands
Work with artists, striving to understand the creative vision and adapting to it. Make full use of your talents and skills to reach the best possible result.
- Work safely with machines
Check and safely operate machines and equipment required for your work according to manuals and instructions.
- Use personal protection equipment
Make use of protection equipment according to training, instruction and manuals. Inspect the equipment and use it consistently.
- Manage personal professional development
Take responsibility for lifelong learning and continuous professional development. Engage in learning to support and update professional competence. Identify priority areas for professional development based on reflection about own practice and through contact with peers and stakeholders.