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Freelance Lighting Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Freelance Lighting information

See Michigan salary details

$12

$41

$115

How much do freelance lighting jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance lighting in Michigan is $41.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.15 and $53.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges freelance lighting professionals face when working on multiple projects simultaneously?

Freelance lighting professionals often juggle several projects at once, which can present challenges related to time management, equipment logistics, and communication with different production teams. Balancing overlapping schedules and ensuring that each project's lighting design meets unique creative and technical requirements requires careful planning. Additionally, freelancers must maintain their own equipment or coordinate with rental houses, and be adaptable to varied workflows and expectations across clients. Staying organized and proactively communicating with all stakeholders are key strategies for success in this dynamic environment.

What is the difference between Freelance Lighting vs Lighting Designer?

AspectFreelance LightingLighting Designer
CredentialsVaries, often self-taught or with industry experienceTypically formal education or certification in lighting design
Work EnvironmentProject-based, independent, multiple clientsEmployed by firms or clients, often on larger projects
Industry UsageUsed across events, film, theater, and architecturePrimarily in theater, film, architecture, and large-scale projects

Freelance Lighting professionals often work independently on diverse projects, focusing on specific lighting tasks. Lighting Designers usually have formal training and work on comprehensive lighting plans for complex productions or architectural projects. Both roles require a strong understanding of lighting techniques, but Freelance Lighting offers more flexibility, while Lighting Designers often engage in more detailed planning and collaboration.

What is freelance lighting?

Freelance lighting involves professionals who work independently to provide lighting design, setup, and operation for various productions such as theater, film, television, or events. These specialists often collaborate with production teams, use industry-standard equipment, and may need certifications or experience in lighting technology and safety protocols.

How can I make 2000 a week working from home?

Freelance lighting professionals can earn $2000 or more weekly by taking on multiple projects, building a strong portfolio, and establishing a reliable client base. Success often depends on skills, experience, and the ability to manage multiple assignments efficiently, typically requiring good communication and knowledge of lighting equipment and techniques.

How much do lighting people get paid?

Lighting professionals, such as lighting technicians or designers, typically earn between $20 and $50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and project complexity. Freelance lighting work often pays higher rates for specialized skills and may include project-based or daily rates, with some experienced professionals earning over $1,000 per day for large productions.

What are the top 5 freelancing jobs?

Freelance lighting professionals often find work in event lighting, film and video production, theater, architectural lighting design, and commercial photography. These roles typically require skills in lighting setup, technical knowledge of lighting equipment, and the ability to work flexible schedules. Demand for freelance lighting jobs is driven by the entertainment, advertising, and event industries.

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

To thrive as a Freelance Lighting Technician, you need a solid understanding of lighting design, electrical systems, and safety protocols, often supported by a relevant degree or technical certification. Familiarity with lighting consoles, DMX control systems, and industry-standard software such as Vectorworks is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, adaptability, and effective communication set top professionals apart in dynamic and often high-pressure environments. These skills ensure successful project execution, safety, and client satisfaction in live events, film, or theater productions.

What is a freelance lighting technician?

A freelance lighting technician is a self-employed professional who designs, installs, operates, and maintains lighting systems for events, performances, films, or photography shoots. They often work on a project-by-project basis, collaborating with directors, producers, and other crew members to achieve the desired lighting effects. Freelance lighting technicians must be skilled in using various lighting equipment and have a good understanding of creative and technical lighting concepts. Their work can involve travel and irregular hours, depending on the project requirements.
What are the most commonly searched types of Lighting jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Lighting jobs in Michigan are:
Infographic showing various Freelance Lighting job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 56% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 18% Contract, and 10% Nights. Highlights an 67% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 31% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,489 per year, or $41.6 per hour.

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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