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Freelance Lighting Programmer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Freelance Lighting Programmer information

What does a Freelance Lighting Programmer do?

A Freelance Lighting Programmer is responsible for designing, programming, and operating lighting systems for events, concerts, theater productions, or film and television shoots. They use specialized software and lighting consoles to create lighting cues, effects, and transitions that enhance the visual experience. Freelance Lighting Programmers work on a project-by-project basis, collaborating closely with lighting designers, directors, and production teams to achieve the desired artistic vision. Their work often involves troubleshooting technical issues and adapting quickly to different venues or equipment. They must have a deep understanding of lighting technology, control systems, and creative design.

How do Freelance Lighting Programmers typically collaborate with production teams during live events?

Freelance Lighting Programmers work closely with lighting designers, directors, and other technical crew members to translate creative vision into technical reality. Collaboration often starts with pre-production meetings to understand the artistic goals and continues through technical rehearsals where cues and effects are programmed. During live events, programmers must communicate clearly and respond quickly to last-minute changes, ensuring seamless integration of lighting with other production elements like sound and staging. Building strong relationships and maintaining flexibility are key to succeeding in these dynamic, team-oriented environments.

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

To thrive as a Freelance Lighting Programmer, you need a solid understanding of lighting design, programming principles, and technical expertise in stage or event lighting, often supported by a background in theatre, live events, or technical production. Familiarity with industry-standard lighting consoles (such as MA Lighting grandMA or ETC Eos), DMX protocols, and relevant programming software is crucial. Strong problem-solving, communication, and time management skills help you collaborate with creative teams and adapt quickly to changing requirements. These abilities ensure precise, creative, and reliable lighting solutions that meet client expectations in dynamic production environments.

What is the difference between Freelance Lighting Programmer vs Lighting Technician?

AspectFreelance Lighting ProgrammerLighting Technician
CredentialsExperience with lighting control software, industry certifications optionalTechnical training or certifications often required
Work EnvironmentProject-based, remote or on-site for events or productionsOn-site, hands-on with lighting equipment during events or shows
Employer & IndustryFreelance, event production, theater, concertsProduction companies, theaters, live events

Freelance Lighting Programmers focus on programming lighting control systems for various productions, often working remotely or on a project basis. Lighting Technicians handle the setup, operation, and maintenance of lighting equipment on-site. While both roles require technical knowledge, Freelance Lighting Programmers typically have more software expertise, whereas Lighting Technicians focus on hardware and installation tasks.

What job categories do people searching Freelance Lighting Programmer jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Lighting Programmer jobs in Michigan are:

Multimedia Producer, Editor

Wayne State University

Detroit, MI • On-site

$63K/yr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Wayne State University rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

284th of 614 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Multimedia Producer, Editor
Wayne State University is searching for an experienced Multimedia Producer, Editor at its Detroit campus location.
Wayne State is a premier, public, urban research university located in the heart of Detroit, Michigan where students from all backgrounds are offered a rich, high-quality education. Our deep-rooted commitment to excellence, collaboration, integrity, diversity and inclusion creates exceptional educational opportunities which prepare students for success in a global society.
Essential functions (job duties):
POSITION PURPOSE
Produces content and plays a supporting role in developing high-volume production/editing, planning and shooting of videos. Produces content for social media and promotional internal and external purposes using students, schools, colleges and divisions, while adhering to the university standards. Manages the production on video shoots. Responsible for all post-production phases of video production.
Ensures deadlines are met. Establishes shoot needs and utilizes existing assets accordingly. Participates in the creative strategy and process for the company shoots. Collaborates with the team to ensure shoots and final product are high quality.
Essential Job Functions
Produces content: Produces interactive multi-media products for various platforms including live presentations, social media and html blasts while operating audio/video equipment.
Conducts all cycles of post-production and editing tasks including rough, finish, audio and colorization edits to fulfill project needs.
Mentors, leads and/or provides tactical guidance on projects to interns and freelance videographers, to provide material for final deliverables.
Provides technical support for live, on-location broadcasts. Ensures availability of necessary personnel and equipment to ensure a quality broadcast.
Coordinates cast, crew and equipment during the production process. Evaluates and arranges for project's art and technical needs, i.e., sound effects, graphics, animation, etc. Ensures adequate inventory levels of equipment and supplies for University Television. Recommends expenditures by department.
Supports the creation and production: Occasionally directs the production of video and/or audio programming for, web and other media platforms, for the purposes of marketing/promotion, fund-raising, recruitment and entertainment.
Performs other related duties as assigned.
WORK CONTEXT
Job Reports to: Director.
Leadership Accountability: Implements operating plans.
Customer Accountability: Interfaces with customers inside the S/C/D.
Freedom to Act: Subject to general input from supervisor.
Qualifications:
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education
Bachelor's degree or certification from a reputable media arts school required.
Bachelor's degree in mass communications or combination of education and experience in full cycle of video production.
Experience
Intermediate (3 to 4 years job-related experience).
Demonstrated experience in full cycle of video production (videography and video editing of rough, finish, colorization, and audio post.
Experienced knowledge of video production process, including lighting and camera techniques, with the ability to provide examples of having demonstrated a leadership role in all areas of production.
Content generation and production experience in social media and other communication platforms.
Experienced knowledge of post-production editing software.
Demonstrated experience in, organizing, editing, lighting and staging of video production shoots and live events.
Experience collaborating with diverse people groups.
Directing and blocking experience, preferred.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
The ability to create project plans to execute and deliver final video product in post-production.
Effectively video live and recorded events, function in various video production roles including, producer, camera operator, teleprompter operator, switcher and audiographer. The ability to act as a director, upon request.
Work effectively with the team to ensure all technical aspects of live and on-location events are executed.
The ability to scout and creatively evaluate locations and determine appropriate shot selections.
The ability to collaborate in the creative design and media production process to effectively communicate the intended message and engage stakeholders.
Develop and produce video projects. Set up in-house and on-location video shoots (lighting, shot composition and audio).
Knowledge of inventory management, equipment maintenance and knowledge of new equipment and technologies.
A keen strength in proper documentation and saving of metadata for easy reference and access.
The ability to provide tactical guidance to freelance staff.
Excellent communications skills and the ability to work with all levels of staff.
School/College/Division:
H73 - University Relations
Primary department:
H8706 - Marketing Services
Employment type:
  • Regular Employee
  • Job type: Full Time
  • Job category: Staff/Administrative
Funding/salary information:
  • Compensation type: Annual Salary
  • Salary minimum: $63,763
  • Salary hire maximum: $76,519
Working conditions:
This position must be filled pursuant to the provisions of a collective bargaining agreement, and as such may be filled by a qualified bargaining unit member, should one apply. Normal office environment, on location and in studio environment. High volume, tight deadlines, and extended work hours, when necessary.
Job openings:
  • Number of openings: 1
  • Reposted position: No
Background check requirements:
University policy requires certain persons who are offered employment to undergo a background check, including a criminal history check, before starting work. If you are offered employment, the university will inform you if a background check is required.

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