ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Freelance Stage Lighting Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mills James Inc

Lighting Specialist

Hilliard, OH · On-site

... freelancers, and vendors to implement creative visions with precision. You will maintain and ... Collaborate with the Video Specialist to balance stage lighting for live and remote audiences.

Weissman

Freelance Photo Assistant

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$61 - $69/hr

Come, let's dance towards a future where dreams take center stage. JOB TITLE Freelance Photo ... Support photographers on set with lighting adjustments, set prep, and equipment handling * Assist ...

Seminolehardrock

$15.25 - $20.25/hr

This position is based in Orlando, and is a part time freelance position. Nights, holidays ... Setup and teardown of professional audio, video, lighting, and staging equipment, with additional ...

Weissman

Freelance Digitech

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$61 - $69/hr

Come, let's dance towards a future where dreams take center stage. JOB TITLE Freelance Digitech ... Experience with professional camera systems (Canon, Phase One, Nikon, Sony) and studio lighting ...

Weissman

Freelance Production Artist

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

Come, let's dance towards a future where dreams take center stage. JOB TITLE Freelance Production ... updates to textures, lighting, and color corrections as needed * Collaborate closely with ...

Temple College

Technical Director

Temple, TX · On-site

Stage & Backstage Operations: Plan, supervise, and execute stage setup, lighting, sound, rigging ... Recruit, train, schedule, and supervise student workers, stage crews, and freelance technicians to ...

Stagedge

Production Stagehand (Freelance)

Tewksbury, MA · On-site

$18.75 - $25/hr

Working with the different departments onsite to assist on set up and/or strikes ( Audio, Video, Lighting ). * Assist with setting up or taking down Scenic elements, assist with cabling, drape as ...

Meeting Tomorrow

Creative Director for Events

Only, TN · Remote

$113K - $170K/yr

Freelancer orchestration: identifying, briefing, and directing specialized external talent (ex: 3D ... stage all work together, as well as how event tech (LED panels, lighting, sound) can be used ...

Meeting Tomorrow

Creative Director for Events

Freelancer orchestration: identifying, briefing, and directing specialized external talent (ex: 3D ... stage all work together, as well as how event tech (LED panels, lighting, sound) can be used ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsStage Lighting JobsFreelance Stage Lighting Jobs

Freelance Stage Lighting information

See salary details

$29

$62

$71

How much do freelance stage lighting jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance stage lighting in the United States is $62.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60.34 and $68.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Freelance Stage Lighting professional, you need expertise in lighting design, electrical knowledge, and familiarity with stage production, often supported by relevant technical training or a degree in theater arts or lighting technology. Proficiency with lighting consoles (such as ETC or GrandMA), DMX control systems, and lighting software like Vectorworks is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you adapt to different venues and collaborate with production teams. These skills are crucial for creating impactful visual experiences, ensuring safety, and delivering professional results on varied productions.

What is a freelance stage lighting professional?

A freelance stage lighting professional is an independent contractor who designs, sets up, and operates lighting for live events, such as concerts, theater productions, and corporate functions. Unlike full-time employees, freelancers work on a project-by-project basis for different clients and venues. Their responsibilities include creating lighting plans, programming lighting cues, and ensuring that lighting enhances the overall atmosphere of the event. Freelance stage lighting professionals often bring their own expertise, creativity, and sometimes equipment to each job. They need to stay updated on the latest lighting technology and safety standards.

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

AspectFreelance Stage LightingStage Lighting Technician
CredentialsVaries; often includes lighting courses or certificationsTypically requires technical training or certifications in lighting
Work EnvironmentProject-based, freelance gigs at various venuesEmployed by a venue or production company, working on specific events
Employer & Industry UsageIndependent contractor, hired per projectFull-time or part-time employee, working within the industry
Search & Comparison IntentLooking for freelance opportunities or gig workSeeking employment or roles within venues or production companies

Freelance Stage Lighting involves independent work on various projects, offering flexibility but less job security. Stage Lighting Technicians are typically employed by venues or companies, providing consistent support for events. Both roles require technical knowledge, but their work settings and employment structures differ significantly.

What are some common challenges freelance stage lighting professionals face when working with new production teams?

Freelance stage lighting professionals often encounter challenges such as quickly adapting to unfamiliar venues, collaborating with new technical crews, and aligning their design vision with a production's specific requirements. Each project may require using different lighting equipment and software, so flexibility and strong communication skills are essential. Building rapport with directors and other crew members early on can help ensure smooth integration and successful show execution.
More about Freelance Stage Lighting jobs
What cities are hiring for Freelance Stage Lighting jobs? Cities with the most Freelance Stage Lighting job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Stage Lighting jobs? The most popular types of Stage Lighting jobs are:
What states have the most Freelance Stage Lighting jobs? States with the most job openings for Freelance Stage Lighting jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Stage Lighting jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Stage Lighting jobs are:
Freelance Stage Lighting jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Stage Lighting job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 11% Locum Tenens, 48% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 19% Contract, and 11% Nights. Highlights an 60% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 38% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,079 per year, or $62.5 per hour.
Lighting Specialist

Lighting Specialist

Mills James Inc

Hilliard, OH • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 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.

What Mills James employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply