Production Designer, Pilot Episode, Los Angeles

BlockReel; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 148,000 - 295,000; Full time

Job summary

BlockReel is seeking a talented Production Designer for a dramatic pilot shooting in Los Angeles for 3–4 days in late November 2026. This is a deferred compensation role with points and deferred pay, for an independent production with a strong script about psychological pressure in competitive sports.

Prep work starts 2–3 weeks prior, in early November. You will lead mood boards, set dressing, prop sourcing, and art direction, working with the director and DP, managing the art department budget

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of experience in production design, preferably on pilots or short films.
• Strong reel showing distinctive, evocative environments.
• Ability to source props and dress sets under a limited budget.
• Capability to create mood boards and collaborate with the director and cinematographer.

Responsibilities

• Create mood boards and visual references for the pilot.
• Collaborate closely with director and DP to realize the vision.
• Oversee set construction or modification and maintain the art department budget.
• Source props and manage on-set dressings and continuity during prep and shoot.

Skills

Production Design

Set Dressing

Prop Sourcing

Art Direction

Budget Management

Collaboration

Job description

Seeking a talented Production Designer for a dramatic pilot episode shooting in Los Angeles for 3-4 days during the second half of November 2026. This is a deferred compensation role (points + deferred pay) for an independent production with a compelling script focusing on the psychological aftermath of a high-stakes competitive sport. We're aiming for a grounded, slightly gritty, and emotionally intense aesthetic that really sells the character's internal struggle and external pressure. Prep work will be approximately 2-3 weeks prior to the shoot, starting around early November. You'll be responsible for bringing our vision to life through set dressing, prop sourcing, and overall art direction. Key responsibilities include creating mood boards, collaborating closely with the director and DP, overseeing set construction or modification, and managing the art department budget. We're looking for someone with at least 3-5 years of experience in production design, ideally with pilot or short film credits. A strong reel showcasing your ability to create distinctive and evocative environments is essential. While we have a limited budget, we're looking for creative problem-solvers. Some materials and a small budget for key items will be provided, but resourcefulness is key. Please include a link to your portfolio or reel with your inquiry.