Scenic Head of Department (Freelance)

Scenic Head of Department (HoD)

Westchester, New York | Temporary, Project-Based

Duration: Late Summer/Fall 2026 & Early January 2027

Role Overview

We are seeking a motivated and skilled Scenic HoD to join our dynamic team for an exciting outdoor Intellectual Property (IP) event taking place in Westchester, NY, during the fall of 2026. This temporary role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the creation of a captivating and immersive experience from the ground up. The successful candidate will be instrumental in the onsite installation of props and scenic elements, working outdoors for an extended period.

Timeline: The first two weeks are remote, covering onboarding and purchasing. On-site duration includes up to 5 weeks for load-in and up to 2 weeks for load-out.

Key Responsibilities

Pre-Production

• Develop and Implement installation of all props and scenic elements.
• Work with the global scenic HoD and the local production manager to define a props load-in schedule that aligns with other onsite teams such as Rigging, LX, and general hands.
• Build a consumables list with approval from the global scenic HoD to ensure all required kits and dressing materials (blacks, camo, kits) are collated for local teams to procure and install.
• Advising alongside the producer, production manager and global scenic HoD on local props staff.
• Interpret the design intent and make practical decisions to ensure the scene is built correctly, meets technical requirements, and stays on schedule.

Production

• Being the main point of contact for scenic and props management/installation onsite.
• Creating and circulating props list per site in line with inventory.
• Act as the main point of contact for all set and scenic suppliers involved in the production on site.
• Ensure installation of props and scenic elements are met to the high standard of Fever and IP partner, including documentation via photos/videos.
• Ensure props storage of unused props and empty crates.
• Management of a clean, safe working environment for the props team and props supplier.
• Coordinate fabrication and installation activities to ensure scenic elements are built accurately and efficiently.
• Communicate build requirements clearly to the scenic team, ensuring everyone understands priorities, specifications, and quality standards.
• Ensure all scenic work complies with safety standards, engineering requirements, and company procedures.
• Adapt and distribute prop installation guides and scene packs to onsite teams.
• Breakdowns of all scenes and detailing each step of installation and maintenance methods.
• Ensure execution of the visual look and feel of the Trail, F&B and Retail areas.
• Coordination of dressing for Retail and F&B.
• Working with Operational Manager on signage installation and name boards for F&B.
• Ensuring all props look natural in the space using natural elements.
• Collation and distribution of feedback from senior management and the IP partner.
• Coordinate with the local production manager and global scenic HoD regarding the carpentry scope to meet schedule and milestones.

Load-out

• Updating the scenic bible with best in practice installation with step by step guides.
• Develop and implement processes for derig & inventory of each set element.
• Filling the Remediation Tracker for all props.

Inventory Management

• Maintain the template of props to be remade/ repaired/ replaced in each location.
• Advise on correct cleaning & packing of props as required.
• Work with the scenic element provider to ensure suitable crating is provided.

Required Qualifications

• Demonstrated ability to coordinate a team, follow schedules, meet milestones, and develop contingency plans.
• At least 8 years of experience in team management within the creative or event industries.
• Proven proficiency in using Google Drive and Google Workspace applications, including Sheets, Docs, and Google Meet.
• Exceptional attention to detail is essential for effective project planning, execution, and follow-up.
• Strong ability to prepare planning documents and schedules, and to manage external vendors and technical teams.
• Demonstrated experience interpreting creative briefs and translating them into actionable plans, with the ability to contribute personal artistic input while ensuring optimal visibility and audience experience.
• Background in prop fabrication, scenic design, stage management, immersive or site-specific events, or coordination of large-scale outdoor projects.
• Ability to follow instructions accurately while leading a team with efficiency and professionalism.
• Solid skills in prop repair to address minor damages on-site or during transportation.
• A valid first aid certification is considered a strong asset.
• A valid OSHA certification is considered a strong asset.

Work Authorization

Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States and be local to the Westchester area. Please note that travel costs or housing will not be provided.