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Freelance Lighting Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mills James Inc

Lighting Specialist

Hilliard, OH · On-site

The Lighting Specialist will serve as L1, L2, or Team Lead onsite, directing crews of staff, freelancers, and vendors to implement creative visions with precision. You will maintain and prepare ...

Weissman

Freelance Photo Assistant

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$61 - $69/hr

JOB TITLE Freelance Photo Assistant LOCATION St. Louis, Missouri (On-Site) ENGAGEMENT TYPE 1099 ... lighting techniques to enhance quality * Communicate effectively with photographers, art directors ...

Weissman

Freelance Digitech

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$61 - $69/hr

Coordinate closely with photographers and art directors to meet creative needs * Perform file ... Experience with professional camera systems (Canon, Phase One, Nikon, Sony) and studio lighting ...

Solomon Page

Freelance Store Designer

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$44/hr

... 3D modeling, lighting, texturing and rendering skills. * Advanced skills with the following ... We pride ourselves on offering medical, dental, 401(k), direct deposit and commuter benefits to our ...

New

Weissman

Freelance Production Artist

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

JOB TITLE Freelance Production Artist LOCATION St. Louis, Missouri (On-Site) ENGAGEMENT TYPE 1099 ... lighting, and color corrections as needed * Collaborate closely with photographers, art directors ...

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Freelance Lighting Director information

What does a Freelance Lighting Director do?

A Freelance Lighting Director is responsible for designing, planning, and overseeing the lighting setup for live events, television shows, film productions, and theater performances. They work closely with directors, producers, and other technical staff to create the desired mood and ensure proper visibility for the audience and cameras. As freelancers, they are hired on a project-by-project basis and must be adaptable to different venues and production styles. Their tasks include creating lighting plots, programming lighting consoles, supervising installation, and troubleshooting any issues that arise during the production.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Freelance Lighting Director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance Lighting Director, you need a solid understanding of lighting design, electrical systems, and stage production, often backed by a degree in technical theater or equivalent experience. Familiarity with lighting control consoles (such as ETC or GrandMA), DMX protocols, and industry-standard software is crucial. Strong problem-solving, creativity, and effective communication with production teams set outstanding professionals apart. These skills ensure visually impactful, safe, and seamless productions tailored to each unique event or performance.

What is the difference between Freelance Lighting Director vs Freelance Gaffer?

AspectFreelance Lighting DirectorFreelance Gaffer
CredentialsLighting design experience, industry knowledgeElectrical and lighting certifications, technical skills
Work EnvironmentOn-set, collaborating with directors and cinematographersOn-set, managing lighting equipment and electrical setups
Industry UsageFilm, television, theater productionsFilm, television, commercial shoots
Role FocusDesigning lighting concepts and overall visual styleImplementing lighting plans, managing lighting equipment

While both Freelance Lighting Directors and Freelance Gaffers work on lighting in film and TV productions, the Lighting Director focuses on designing the overall lighting concept and visual style, whereas the Gaffer handles the technical execution, managing lighting equipment and electrical setups on set.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance lighting directors when working on live events, and how can they be managed?

Freelance lighting directors often encounter challenges such as tight setup timelines, adapting to unfamiliar venues, and coordinating with multiple teams (audio, stage management, production). To manage these, it's important to conduct thorough pre-event planning, maintain clear communication with all departments, and be flexible in adapting lighting designs to on-site constraints. Building strong relationships with local crew and staying up-to-date with the latest lighting technology can also help ensure smooth event execution.
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Freelance Lighting Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Lighting Director job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Lighting Specialist

Mills James Inc

Hilliard, OH • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago

Mills James rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 75 rated media

Job description

About the Role

Mills James has an immediate opportunity for an experienced Lighting Specialist to join our production team. This hands-on role involves preparing lighting designs and equipment for safe and timely installation and operation at live events. The Lighting Specialist will serve as L1, L2, or Team Lead onsite, directing crews of staff, freelancers, and vendors to implement creative visions with precision.

You will maintain and prepare lighting equipment, collaborate with production leaders, and bring a true passion for the lighting design world to every project.

Key Responsibilities
  • Attend preconference meetings with Production Manager or Producer.
  • Assist Resource Coordinator in resolving conflicts with lighting resources and recommend rental solutions when needed.
  • Support Warehouse Manager with equipment logistics (pulling, scanning, loading/unloading, and checkin).
  • Direct the lighting portion of live events, including: oPlacement of lighting specials for key moments.
  • Cueing lighting effects. oDirecting follow spot operators.
  • Collaborate with the Video Specialist to balance stage lighting for live and remote audiences.
  • Supervise riggers and stagehands during equipment installation.
  • Provide documentation for installation, patching, focus, programming, and operation of lighting equipment.
  • Organize, manage, and maintain lighting equipment and technology.
  • Assist in developing live lighting solutions to meet client needs.
  • Manage inventories of expendables and replacement parts.
  • Evaluate freelancers for lightingrelated functions.
    • Requirements
  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience (minimum 4 years related experience).
  • Proficiency in live lighting technologies, including: oLighting system and rigging design.
  • Conventional and moving light fixtures. oDimming systems.
  • Gobo creation/selection. oLighting color theory.
  • Analog and digital console programming. oFollow spot operation.
  • Advanced troubleshooting and problemsolving skills.
  • Ability to learn and use Mills James Media Pulse facilities management software.
  • Valid driver’s license and medical card required (CDL may be required).
  • Ability to obtain a U.S. Passport.
  • Willingness to travel up to 60% and work flexible hours.
    • BenefitsMills James offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance.
  • 401(k) and Roth 401(k) plans with company match.
  • Paid time off (PTO) and paid holidays.
  • Opportunities for career growth and professional development.
    • Equal Opportunity Employer

    Mills James, Inc. is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

    Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this role.

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