Finishing Specialist / Scenic Painter

Bridgewater Studio; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 50,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Weekly pay

Benefits package

Overhire opportunities

Job summary

Bridgewater Studio, located in Chicago, seeks Finishing Specialists and Scenic Painters to join a fast-paced, creative team. The role involves applying lacquer finishes and scenic painting for theatre and film projects, with emphasis on precision and collaboration.

You’ll work on hands-on projects from day one, with weekly pay, competitive benefits, and opportunities for overhire. Passion for meaningful, creative work is a plus.

Qualifications

• Experience in automotive finishing or scenic painting for theatre/film.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to manage shifting priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency with sprayed lacquer finishes.
• Scenic painting for theatre or film/TV.
• Ability to work independently and with a team.

Responsibilities

• Finish surfaces and apply coatings as part of projects.
• Paint scenic elements for theatre and film productions.
• Collaborate with artisans and designers to achieve release-ready finishes.
• Maintain quality control from prep to final finish.

Skills

Finishing expertise

Scenic painting

Teamwork

Communication

Attention to detail

Paint processes

Tools

Spray lacquer equipment

Job description

Join the Bridgewater Studio Team: Finishing Specialist / Scenic Painter

Date: 8/26/2026

Bridgewater Studio is growing! We’re looking for talented and experienced Finishing Specialists and Scenic Painters to become part of our fast-moving, creative, and collaborative team.

Who We Are

Located in Chicago’s Back of the Yards neighborhood, Bridgewater Studio is a nationally recognized Experiential Design and Production Agency. We create immersive, story-driven environments for some of the world’s most recognizable brands and institutions-including the Smithsonian, Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, Universal Studios, Nike, and LinkedIn.

Who We’re Looking For

If you’re experienced in automotive finishing, scenic painting for theatre or film, and prop fabrication you might be a great fit.

What Makes a Great Candidate

Strong skills applied finishes, automotive paint application, scenic painting, prop building and finishing, sculpture and fine art you might be the right fit for our team.

• Excellent communication and teamwork
• Ability to manage shifting priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to apply sprayed lacquer finishes.
• Scenic painting for theatre or film / television
• Ability to work independently and with a team
• Meticulous attention to detail, preparation, and finish quality
• Familiarity with multiple paint processes and equipment
• A passion for working on meaningful, creative projects

The Role

This is a full-time position that includes competitive compensation, benefits, and weekly pay. You’ll work with an inspiring team on innovative, hands-on projects from day one. Overhire opportunities available.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Bridgewater Studio is committed to diversity and inclusion. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and experiences.