Head of Design and Props - Entertainment

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Head of Design and Props - Entertainment Company: Wynn Al Marjan Island Location: United Arab Emirates Job Type: Full-Time Category: Entertainment Operations / Creative Production Management Date Posted: 2025-12-12 Experience Level: 5-10 Years Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the comprehensive props department, overseeing the entire lifecycle from design conception to sourcing, fabrication, and ongoing maintenance for all production needs within the resort's entertainment offerings.
• Serve as a key liaison, collaborating closely with directors, designers, and production managers to meticulously interpret artistic visions and ensure all prop requirements are precisely met, aligning with creative and technical specifications.
• Drive financial stewardship by managing the props budget, encompassing all aspects of purchasing, rentals, labor costs, and resource allocation to ensure projects are delivered within financial parameters.
• Foster a high-performing team environment by supervising and scheduling prop artisans, assistants, and run crew, ensuring optimal resource utilization and efficient workflow management.
• Uphold stringent standards for safety and functionality, ensuring all props are not only visually aligned with production needs but also safe for performers and crew, meeting all performance and operational requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is situated within the entertainment operations of a large-scale integrated resort. The "Head of Design and Props" title suggests a leadership position with significant responsibility for creative execution and operational efficiency within the entertainment department. The focus is on managing the physical assets and creative elements that bring productions to life.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Spearhead the design, sourcing, fabrication, and meticulous maintenance of all props utilized across various entertainment productions within Wynn Al Marjan Island.
• Partner with creative leads (directors, designers) to translate artistic concepts into tangible prop solutions, ensuring alignment with the overall production aesthetic and narrative.
• Develop and manage the props department budget, including forecasting, tracking expenditures, and optimizing costs for materials, labor, rentals, and external vendor services.
• Recruit, train, mentor, and supervise a team of prop artisans, technicians, and support staff, fostering a culture of excellence, safety, and continuous improvement.
• Ensure all props adhere to rigorous safety regulations, functional requirements, and performance standards, conducting regular inspections and quality control checks.
• Establish and maintain an organized, accurate, and accessible inventory system for all props, materials, and equipment, facilitating efficient retrieval and management.
• Coordinate the timely execution of prop changes, set-ups, and on-stage maintenance during rehearsals, performances, and live events to ensure seamless production flow.
• Oversee all aspects of prop storage, including organization, preservation, and security, as well as manage transportation logistics and efficient strike (dismantling) procedures post-production.
• Enforce compliance with all relevant safety regulations, industry best practices, and company policies throughout the props department's operations.
• Provide comprehensive training and ongoing mentorship to props staff, interns, and apprentices, fostering skill development and career growth within the department.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities listed emphasize a blend of creative leadership, technical execution, and robust operational management. The scope includes team leadership, budget oversight, and ensuring the physical components of entertainment productions meet high standards, a typical expectation for a senior role in a large entertainment venue.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Theatre Production, Technical Theatre, Fine Arts, Industrial Design, or a closely related field is preferred.

Experience:

• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in theatrical props management, technical production, or a comparable creative/technical role within the entertainment or hospitality industry.
• Proven track record of leading and managing teams in demanding, fast-paced production environments, demonstrating effective delegation and supervision.

Required Skills:

• Leadership & Team Management: Demonstrated ability to inspire, motivate, and effectively manage a team of artisans and technicians, fostering a collaborative and productive work environment.
• Organizational & Time Management: Exceptional skills in prioritizing tasks, managing multiple projects simultaneously, and meeting tight deadlines in a high-pressure production schedule.
• Creative Problem-Solving & Adaptability: Ability to devise innovative solutions to design and fabrication challenges, adapting quickly to changing creative directions or unforeseen production issues.
• Effective Communication & Collaboration: Excellent interpersonal skills for clear and concise communication with diverse stakeholders, including creative teams, production management, and vendors.
• Prop Construction & Fabrication: Strong technical proficiency in a wide range of prop construction techniques, materials, and tools, including both traditional craftsmanship and modern fabrication methods.
• Safety Practices & Compliance: Thorough understanding and application of standard safety practices in a workshop and production setting, ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations.
• Design Interpretation: Ability to accurately read, interpret, and translate design drawings, blueprints, technical specifications, and artistic briefs into functional props.
• Inventory Management: Proficiency in establishing and maintaining organized prop inventories, tracking assets, and managing stock levels effectively.
• Budget Management: Experience in managing project or departmental budgets, including cost estimation, tracking expenditures, and identifying cost-saving opportunities.
• Tools & Fabrication Proficiency: Hands-on experience with a variety of hand and power tools, as well as common fabrication techniques (e.g., woodworking, metalworking, sculpting, painting, upholstery).
• Mentorship & Training: Capacity to train and mentor junior staff and interns, imparting technical skills and best practices.
• Computer Literacy: Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and experience with inventory management software or project management tools.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with specialized fabrication techniques (e.g., 3D printing, CNC machining, foam carving).
• Familiarity with theatrical lighting, sound, or scenic elements for integrated productions.
• Knowledge of various material properties and their applications in prop construction.
• Experience working within a luxury hospitality or integrated resort environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "About You" section in the original text has been expanded to clearly delineate required and preferred skills, with an emphasis on operational capabilities like budget management, inventory systems, and specific fabrication proficiencies relevant to a large-scale entertainment operation.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design & Fabrication Showcase: A curated collection of past projects demonstrating a range of prop designs, fabrication techniques, and material applications, highlighting complexity and creative problem-solving.
• Process Optimization Examples: Case studies illustrating how you improved efficiency, reduced costs, or enhanced quality in prop sourcing, fabrication, or maintenance processes.
• Team Management & Workflow: Evidence of successful team leadership, including examples of scheduling, task delegation, and workflow management within a production context.
• Budget Management & Resource Allocation: Documentation showing successful management of props budgets, including examples of cost-saving initiatives or effective resource allocation strategies.
• Safety & Compliance Documentation: Examples of safety protocols implemented or adherence to safety standards in prop workshops and during production.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Ability to document and present clear workflows for prop design, sourcing, fabrication, inventory management, and strike procedures, identifying bottlenecks and proposing improvements.
• Material Sourcing & Vendor Management: Processes for evaluating and selecting vendors for materials and prop fabrication, including negotiation and quality assurance steps.
• Inventory Control Systems: Documentation of systems used for tracking prop inventory, including cataloging, condition assessment, and retrieval processes.
• Safety Protocol Implementation: Detailed procedures for workshop safety, tool usage, material handling, and on-site prop management during performances.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a creative and operational role like this, a portfolio is crucial. This section outlines specific types of content that would be expected, focusing on demonstrating not just creative output but also process management, efficiency gains, and leadership capabilities, which are key for a "Head of" position.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• The salary for this position is paid in Dirhams (AED), the local currency of the UAE. Based on industry benchmarks for similar leadership roles in luxury hospitality and entertainment in the United Arab Emirates, a competitive annual salary range of AED 300,000 - AED 450,000 is estimated. This range considers the experience level (5-10 years), the leadership scope, and the high cost of living and specialized talent market in the region.

Benefits:

• Attractive Salary paid in AED (United Arab Emirates Dirhams).
• Comprehensive Healthcare Package.
• Generous Leave Policy.
• Life Insurance coverage.
• Performance-based Incentive Programs.
• Additional Employee Benefits tailored for resort staff.

Working Hours:

• Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday. However, due to the nature of the entertainment and production industry, flexibility will be required to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as dictated by production schedules, rehearsals, and live performances.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimation for the UAE is based on research into comparable roles in Dubai and Abu Dhabi's luxury hospitality and entertainment sectors, considering the seniority of a "Head of" position and the resort's scale. The benefits are directly pulled from the provided text and presented clearly.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Hospitality & Entertainment (Integrated Resort Development) Company Size: Large (Construction and pre-opening phase, with eventual employment for thousands post-opening). Founded: Wynn Al Marjan Island is a project by Wynn Resorts, a globally recognized luxury resort developer. The project itself is under construction, aiming for a 2027 opening.

Team Structure:

• Entertainment Department: This role sits within the broader Entertainment Administration team, likely reporting to a Director or VP of Entertainment.
• Props Team: Directly manages a team of prop artisans, technicians, assistants, and potentially interns involved in prop design, fabrication, and maintenance.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Close collaboration is expected with Directors, Set Designers, Costume Designers, Production Managers, Lighting Designers, Sound Engineers, and other operational departments across the resort.

Methodology:

• Creative Vision Alignment: Emphasis on translating artistic direction into practical, high-quality prop execution.
• Operational Excellence: Focus on efficient workflows, budget adherence, and timely delivery of all prop-related requirements.
• Safety First Culture: Strict adherence to safety protocols in workshops and during production activities.
• Quality Craftsmanship: Commitment to high standards of design, fabrication, and finish for all props.

Company Website: https://careers.wynnalmarjanisland.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company context is derived from the provided description of Wynn Al Marjan Island as a major upcoming integrated resort. The "Methodology" section infers operational and creative approaches typical for a high-end entertainment production environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior Management / Department Head This role represents a significant leadership position within the Entertainment Operations division of a major resort. It requires a blend of creative direction, technical expertise, and robust people and financial management skills. The scope of responsibility is substantial, influencing the visual impact and functionality of all entertainment productions.

Reporting Structure: The Head of Design and Props will likely report to a senior executive within the Entertainment or Operations division, such as the Director of Entertainment, VP of Entertainment, or Director of Production. They will, in turn, manage a team of prop specialists and artisans.

Operations Impact: The Head of Design and Props directly impacts the guest experience by ensuring that the visual elements of entertainment productions – the props – are of the highest quality, contribute to the immersive atmosphere, and are executed flawlessly. This role is critical in bringing the resort's opulent and entertaining vision to life, directly influencing the brand's reputation for luxury and spectacle. Effective management of the props department ensures productions run smoothly, on budget, and to the exacting standards expected of a Wynn property.

Growth Opportunities:

• Advancement within Entertainment: Potential to move into broader Production Management roles, overseeing multiple technical departments, or progressing to a Director-level position within Entertainment Operations.
• Cross-Departmental Mobility: Opportunities to leverage transferable skills in project management, operations, and team leadership into other operational areas of the resort.
• Specialization & Expertise: Deepen expertise in specific prop-making disciplines or take on consultancy roles for future Wynn projects.
• Leadership Development Programs: Access to Wynn Resorts' internal leadership training and development programs.

📝 Enhancement Note: This analysis frames the role within a typical career progression path in the entertainment and hospitality industry, highlighting the strategic importance and potential for growth beyond the immediate scope of prop management.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Primarily workshop and production-focused, with administrative office space. Office Location(s): The role is based on the construction site of Wynn Al Marjan Island in the United Arab Emirates, with potential for site visits and collaboration at relevant design or fabrication studios.

Workspace Context:

• Workshop Environment: Candidates should be comfortable working in a dynamic workshop setting that may involve exposure to various tools, materials, and machinery. Safety is paramount.
• Production Hub: The role is central to the creation of live entertainment, requiring presence during critical phases of production, including rehearsals and potentially opening events.
• Collaborative Spaces: Opportunities to work closely with designers and production teams in dedicated studio or office environments.
• State-of-the-Art Facilities: As part of a new, high-end resort, expect access to modern fabrication tools and technology.

Work Schedule:

• The standard 40-hour work week is a baseline. However, the demands of entertainment production necessitate flexibility, often requiring extended hours, evening work, and weekend availability, especially as opening dates approach or during critical performance periods.

📝 Enhancement Note: The description of the work environment emphasizes the practical, hands-on nature of the role, including the workshop setting and the need for flexibility inherent in live entertainment production.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio to assess experience, qualifications, and alignment with role requirements.
• Technical & Creative Interview: Discussion focused on prop design principles, fabrication techniques, material knowledge, and problem-solving approaches. May involve a technical assessment or review of specific project challenges.
• Leadership & Management Interview: Evaluation of leadership style, team management experience, budget oversight capabilities, and interpersonal skills. This may include behavioral questions.
• Production & Collaboration Interview: Assessment of ability to collaborate with diverse creative and technical teams, interpret artistic vision, and manage production timelines and challenges.
• Final Interview: Discussion with senior leadership, potentially focusing on strategic alignment with the resort's vision and overall operational fit.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Diversity: Include projects that demonstrate a breadth of skills, from intricate detail work to large-scale constructions.
• Highlight Process: For each project, explain your specific role, the challenges faced, the solutions implemented, and the final outcome. Emphasize your thought process.
• Quantify Impact: Where possible, include metrics – e.g., budget managed, team size, cost savings achieved, efficiency improvements.
• Visual Storytelling: Use high-quality images and videos. If applicable, include sketches, CAD models, and behind-the-scenes shots of the fabrication process.
• Tailor to Wynn: Research Wynn's aesthetic and past productions to subtly align your portfolio presentation with their brand and quality standards.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss hypothetical scenarios related to prop sourcing challenges, budget constraints, or urgent design changes.
• Practice articulating your design rationale and decision-making process clearly and concisely.
• Prepare to discuss your approach to team motivation and conflict resolution within a creative team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview and portfolio review process is structured to assess a candidate's full range of capabilities, from technical craft to leadership and strategic thinking, crucial for a senior role in a high-profile resort.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools & Fabrication:

• Hand & Power Tools: Extensive proficiency with woodworking, metalworking, sculpting, painting, and general fabrication tools.
• Workshop Equipment: Familiarity with specialized equipment such as table saws, band saws, routers, sanders, welding equipment, spray guns, and potentially CNC machines or 3D printers.
• Safety Equipment: Comprehensive understanding and use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and workshop safety protocols.

Design & Documentation:

• Design Software: Ability to interpret and potentially utilize CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, SketchUp, SolidWorks) for design visualization and technical drawings.
• Microsoft Office Suite: Proficiency in Word for documentation, Excel for budgeting and tracking, and PowerPoint for presentations.
• Project Management Software: Experience with tools like Asana, Trello, or Monday.com for task management and workflow tracking.
• Inventory Management Software: Familiarity with or ability to learn dedicated inventory systems for tracking assets, materials, and equipment.

Communication & Collaboration:

• Email & Messaging Platforms: Standard professional communication tools.
• Video Conferencing: For remote collaboration with design teams or stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section details the specific technical proficiencies and software likely to be used, focusing on practical workshop tools and essential administrative/management software relevant to a Head of Props role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence & Craftsmanship: A commitment to delivering props and designs of the highest quality, reflecting the luxury brand of Wynn Resorts.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a supportive environment where team members work together, share knowledge, and contribute to collective success.
• Innovation & Creativity: Encouraging new ideas and approaches to prop design and fabrication, pushing creative boundaries within production constraints.
• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding professional standards, taking ownership of responsibilities, and acting with honesty and transparency.
• Safety & Responsibility: Prioritizing the well-being of the team and ensuring all operations adhere to strict safety guidelines.

Collaboration Style:

• Partnership-Oriented: Working closely with directors and designers as a creative partner to bring their visions to life.
• Cross-Functional Integration: Seamlessly integrating with other production departments (lighting, sound, costumes) to ensure cohesive show elements.
• Feedback-Driven: Open to constructive feedback and iterative design processes to achieve optimal results.
• Proactive Communication: Maintaining clear and consistent communication across all levels and departments to anticipate needs and resolve issues swiftly.

📝 Enhancement Note: The team culture and values are inferred from the luxury brand positioning of Wynn Resorts, emphasizing quality, collaboration, and a strong operational ethic.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Translating Vision to Reality: The primary challenge is accurately interpreting abstract artistic concepts into tangible, functional, and visually stunning props within budget and timeline constraints.
• Managing Diverse Skill Sets: Leading a team with varied technical skills and creative approaches requires adept management to harness individual strengths for collective success.
• Budgetary Constraints: Balancing ambitious creative designs with realistic budget limitations necessitates resourceful sourcing, efficient fabrication, and potential value engineering.
• Tight Production Schedules: The fast-paced nature of resort entertainment production demands exceptional planning and execution to meet critical deadlines for rehearsals, openings, and ongoing shows.
• Material Sourcing & Logistics: Sourcing specialized materials or unique prop elements in the UAE and managing their transportation and integration can present logistical hurdles.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Fabrication Techniques: Opportunities to explore and implement cutting-edge fabrication technologies (e.g., large-scale 3D printing, advanced CNC, robotics).
• Sustainable Design & Materials: Learning about and applying sustainable practices in prop design and construction.
• Resort-Wide Operational Acumen: Gaining a broader understanding of integrated resort operations beyond entertainment.
• International Project Exposure: Potential involvement in future Wynn projects globally.
• Leadership & Management Training: Access to specialized training programs to enhance leadership, financial management, and strategic planning skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges are framed around the inherent complexities of creative production management in a high-stakes environment, while growth opportunities are tied to professional development and potential career expansion within the Wynn organization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to source or fabricate a prop with a very limited budget. What was your approach, and what was the outcome?" (Assesses resourcefulness, problem-solving, and budget management.)
• "How do you ensure the safety of props and your team in a busy workshop and during live performances?" (Focuses on safety protocols and risk management.)
• "Walk us through your process for collaborating with a director or designer who has a concept that seems technically challenging or outside your team's current capabilities." (Evaluates communication, negotiation, and creative problem-solving.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Wynn Resorts and their reputation for luxury and entertainment? How do you see your role contributing to that brand?" (Tests research and cultural alignment.)
• "Describe your leadership style and how you motivate a team of creative artisans." (Assesses team management and motivational strategies.)
• "How do you stay current with trends in prop design, fabrication, and entertainment technology?" (Explores commitment to continuous learning and industry awareness.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Thematic Organization: Group projects by type (e.g., large-scale structures, intricate details, specific material focus) or by production type.
• Narrative Focus: For each significant project, tell a story: the initial brief, the challenges, your specific contributions and solutions, and the final impact.
• Demonstrate Process: Show sketches, models, material samples, fabrication stages, and behind-the-scenes footage alongside final polished images.
• Quantify Achievements: Where possible, present data on budget adherence, timeline management, team size, or efficiency gains.
• Concise & Engaging: Be prepared to present key highlights efficiently, allowing time for questions and discussion. Avoid overwhelming the interviewer with excessive detail.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation advice is tailored to assess core competencies relevant to a Head of Props role, including creative problem-solving, leadership, safety awareness, and the ability to align with a luxury brand. Portfolio presentation tips focus on demonstrating impact and process.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the official Wynn Al Marjan Island careers portal.
• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 3-5 of your most impactful projects that best showcase your leadership, design sensibility, fabrication expertise, and ability to manage complex prop requirements within production environments. Ensure it includes examples of diverse materials and techniques.
• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight achievements and responsibilities that directly map to the job description, using keywords such as "props management," "technical production," "budget oversight," "team leadership," "fabrication," and "safety compliance." Quantify your accomplishments whenever possible.
• Prepare for Behavioral & Situational Questions: Anticipate questions about your leadership style, problem-solving approach, and how you handle challenges in a fast-paced production setting. Practice articulating your responses using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).
• Research Wynn Al Marjan Island: Understand the resort's vision, target audience, and the scale of its entertainment offerings to better articulate how your skills and experience align with their specific needs and brand.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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