1

Lighting Apprentice Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

... Apprentices * Supervise and perform hands-on installation of branch circuits, power distribution wiring, electrical equipment, fixtures, lighting systems and conduit in compliance with the National ...

Supv Fuel Handling

Joliet, IL · On-site

$133K - $148K/yr

... lighting the way to a brilliant tomorrow for all. We have been the leader in clean energy ... Associates/non-technical 4-year degree/completion or a relevant, skilled trades apprenticeship ...

Supv Fuel Handling

Joliet, IL · On-site

$133K - $148K/yr

... lighting the way to a brilliant tomorrow for all. We have been the leader in clean energy ... Associates/non-technical 4-year degree/completion or a relevant, skilled trades apprenticeship ...

Supv Fuel Handling

Joliet, IL · On-site

$133K - $148K/yr

... lighting the way to a brilliant tomorrow for all. We have been the leader in clean energy ... Associates/non-technical 4-year degree/completion or a relevant, skilled trades apprenticeship ...

Senior Electrician, Construction

North Chicago, IL · On-site

$24 - $33/hr

... lighting, located throughout the plant. This includes testing, maintenance of back-up batteries ... apprenticeship program. Must be an AbbVie-qualified Level 4 electrician. Additional Information ...

Supv Fuel Handling

Elwood, IL · On-site

$133K - $148K/yr

... lighting the way to a brilliant tomorrow for all. We have been the leader in clean energy ... Associates/non-technical 4-year degree/completion or a relevant, skilled trades apprenticeship ...

Senior Electrician, Construction

North Chicago, IL · On-site

$24 - $33/hr

... lighting, located throughout the plant. This includes testing, maintenance of back-up batteries ... apprenticeship program. * Must be an AbbVie-qualified Level 4 electrician. Additional Information ...

Supv Fuel Handling

Joliet, IL · On-site

$133K - $148K/yr

... lighting the way to a brilliant tomorrow for all. We have been the leader in clean energy ... Associates/non-technical 4-year degree/completion or a relevant, skilled trades apprenticeship ...

Supv Fuel Handling

Elwood, IL · On-site

$133K - $148K/yr

... lighting the way to a brilliant tomorrow for all. We have been the leader in clean energy ... Associates/non-technical 4-year degree/completion or a relevant, skilled trades apprenticeship ...

Electrician

Hammond, IN · On-site

$24 - $33/hr

... underwater lighting, motors, switches and outlets, fuse boxes, circuit breakers, generators ... Complete and pass a government-approved electrical apprenticeship training program * Thorough ...

Supv Fuel Handling

Elwood, IL · On-site

$133K - $148K/yr

... lighting the way to a brilliant tomorrow for all. We have been the leader in clean energy ... Associates/non-technical 4-year degree/completion or a relevant, skilled trades apprenticeship ...

Electrician

Chicago, IL · On-site

$25.75 - $35.25/hr

Installs new local services for lighting and appliances * Uses hand and power tools * Requisitions ... Successful completion of electrical apprentice program. Class "B" electricians card. * Must have ...

Showing results 41-60

Lighting Apprentice information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$12

$23

$37

How much do lighting apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for lighting apprentice in Chicago, IL is $23.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.80 and $26.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lighting apprentice?

Lighting apprentices are entry-level workers who assist lighting professionals in setting up, maintaining, and operating lighting equipment for events, film productions, theaters, or construction sites. They learn on the job under the supervision of experienced lighting technicians or electricians, gaining practical skills in wiring, rigging, and troubleshooting lighting systems. This role is often the first step toward becoming a fully qualified lighting technician or lighting designer, and it typically involves both hands-on work and some classroom instruction.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a lighting apprentice?

To thrive as a Lighting Apprentice, you need a solid understanding of basic electrical principles, manual dexterity, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with lighting control systems, hand and power tools, and safety certifications such as OSHA 10 are typically required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication skills help apprentices excel on job sites and coordinate with other trades. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality lighting installations in various environments.

What are some common challenges a lighting apprentice might face during training?

As a Lighting Apprentice, you may encounter challenges such as adapting to early morning or late-night work schedules, working safely at heights or in tight spaces, and learning to handle a variety of lighting equipment efficiently. You'll also need to quickly grasp electrical safety protocols and industry standards, which can be complex for those new to the field. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as you'll work closely with lighting technicians, electricians, and other crew members to ensure smooth project execution.

What is the difference between Lighting Apprentice vs Lighting Technician?

AspectLighting ApprenticeLighting Technician
Required CredentialsOn-the-job training, sometimes certifications in basic electrical safetyRelevant certifications (e.g., OSHA, electrical licenses), experience preferred
Work EnvironmentAssist with setup, maintenance, and operation under supervision, often on film, theater, or event setsOperate, troubleshoot, and maintain lighting equipment independently in similar environments
Job ResponsibilitiesLearn lighting setup, handle basic equipment, support senior staffDesign, install, and troubleshoot lighting systems, ensure safety and quality standards

Lighting apprentices are entry-level workers gaining hands-on experience under supervision, focusing on learning basic skills. Lighting technicians are more experienced, responsible for executing lighting plans and maintaining equipment. The apprenticeship serves as a stepping stone toward becoming a fully qualified lighting technician.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lighting jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Lighting jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Lighting Apprentice jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Lighting Apprentice job openings:

Infographic showing various Lighting Apprentice job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,880 per year, or $23.5 per hour.

Electrical Control Technician

Village of Winnetka, IL

Winnetka, IL • On-site

$107K - $144K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Inspect, test, maintain, and repair electrical protection equipment and systems at the Electric Plant, load centers, substations, and distribution facilities.

  • Install, calibrate, and troubleshoot relays, circuit breakers, transformers, and related electrical equipment using test apparatus and interpret electrical diagrams.

  • Coordinate maintenance activities, analyze test results, and document operational and maintenance records.


Job description

Salary: $107,054.00 - $144,189.00 Annually
Location : Water & Electric Plant, Tower Road, Winnetka, IL
Job Type: Full-time
Job Number: 20260702
Department: Water & Electric
Opening Date: 08/26/2026
General Purpose
The Village of Winnetka's Water & Electric Department seeks applicants for a full-time Electrical Control Technician. The Control Technician inspects, tests, cleans, calibrates, installs, maintains, and repairs all electrical protection equipment and systems and their metering and interfaces at the Electric Plant, load centers, substations, and distribution facilities including motor protection, circuit protection, and generator protection. This position also engages in troubleshooting and repair of electrical protection equipment and systems used in the Water Plant and reservoir as needed.
Essential Functions:
  • Formulate and recommend maintenance, test procedures and standards; plan for equipment and material needs; schedule and perform activities to coordinate equipment outages and assure that all electrical protection equipment and systems are in proper working condition in accordance with local, state and federal requirements.
  • Maintain and interpret "as-built" diagrams and drawings of electrical systems at the Electric Plant, substations, and load centers.
  • Install, service, maintain, inspect, test, repair, replace, disassemble, adjust, and clean electrical and related equipment and relays used to protect and control functions of equipment such as, but not limited to, circuit breakers, transformers, capacitors, telemetry, automatic switches, supervisory control devices, and indicating and recording instruments, using hand tools.
  • Connect relay to test equipment and adjust controls to simulate operating conditions; observe ammeters, voltmeters, and related test equipment to determine proper relay functions, according to specifications; analyze test results to identify cause of malfunction or failure; replace parts, adjust electrical, thermal, and timing elements to calibrate relay, according to specifications.
  • Periodically inspect and test relays at functioning points; connect test apparatus to troubled circuit; analyze test results and interpret electrical diagrams to locate defective relay; open and close switches to isolate defective relay; and undertake repairs to prevent and remedy abnormal performance or failure of transmission and distribution lines and equipment.
  • Maintain relay protection settings records; periodically download existing protection settings and upload and implement new settings.
  • Test and repair switchboard and equipment circuitry, interpreting wiring diagrams to trace and connect numerous wires carrying current and voltage to independent functions.
  • Test insulators and bushings of equipment for power leakage, using testing apparatus and calculating insulation loss.
  • Inspect, test, and maintain voltage regulator controls, tighten connections, replace defective regulator parts, including motor controls, fuses, or capacitors.
  • Test circuits and equipment to evaluate factors, including insulation quality, analyze test data to determine performance characteristics of relays and effect of system modifications on relay performance; compute electrical characteristics, including impedance, power factor, and phase angle; determine whether equipment being tested or maintained is within the acceptable range of operation.
  • Service and repair storage batteries as power source for lighting purposes for switchgear.
  • Compile test result data, service reports indicating parts repaired or replaced, adjustments and corrections made, and related operational and maintenance records.
  • Recommend the ordering of replacement parts to replenish inventories.
  • Oversee and inspect the quality of work performed by outside contractors relative to electrical protection equipment.
  • Meet and confer daily with plant operators to evaluate plant operation.
  • Confer with other Village personnel, outside vendors, and other utilities regarding the scheduling of maintenance and repair activities, trouble shooting, parts, and new products and materials.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Desired Minimum Qualifications
  • Associates Degree, Trade, or Technical School.
  • Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering or related field preferred.
  • Five (5) years' minimum work experience as a relay technician or apprentice relay technician.
  • Any equivalent combination of training, education, and/or experience.

Other Requirements
  • Read, clearly speak, and legibly write the English language.
  • General understanding of electrical engineering.
  • Ability to interpret electrical wiring diagrams and drawings.
  • Ability to troubleshoot, make recommendations, and prioritize system improvements.
  • Extensive knowledge of test equipment, electromechanical and solid state relays, meters, computers, communications equipment, and proper wiring methods and practices.
  • Knowledge of the maintenance and operation of medium voltage breakers.
  • Comprehensive knowledge of mathematical computation procedures including, basic math, and square roots.
  • Demonstrated proper knowledge of safe testing, maintenance, and repair techniques.
  • Considerable knowledge of the proper and safe use and application of tools, equipment, and hardware.
  • Valid Illinois driver's License.

Shifts are normally 8 hours in duration, 40 hours weekly, 6:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. but may be extended in the event of emergency, personnel shortage, workload, or work in progress. The position may be required to work on some Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays.
While performing the duties of this job, work is sometimes required under adverse or unusual conditions such as cold, hot, wet, dark, dusty, noisy and cramped surroundings, in all weather conditions, and at all hours of the day. Work is frequently required in areas surrounded by energized electric power and control circuits. Must perform duties independently and as a team while tolerating extreme fluctuations in environmental working conditions.
Village of Winnetka
Position Range: $107,054 - $144,189 annual, DOQ.
For questions or assistance, please contact Ann Eriksson, Human Resources Manager, at (847) 716-3546 or aeriksson@winnetka.org.
Insurance Benefits Effective 1/1/2026
  • BlueCross BlueShield Health Insurance - PPO Plan 1 Highlights:
    • Deductible: $400 (per person, in-network)
    • Office Visit: $20
    • Co-Insurance: 90% (in-network), 70% (out-of-network)
    • Employee Rate (24 pay checks):
      • Employee Only: $65.57
      • Employee + 1: $131.14
      • Family: $187.21
  • BlueCross BlueShield Health Insurance - PPO Plan 2 Highlights:
    • Deductible: $5,600 (per person, in-network)
    • Office Visit: Deductible applies, then $0
    • Co-Insurance: 100% (in-network), 80% (out-of-network)
    • Employee Rate (24 pay checks):
      • Employee Only: $50.43
      • Employee + 1: $100.86
      • Family: $143.98
  • BlueCross BlueShield Health Insurance - HMO Highlights:
    • Deductible: Unlimited
    • Office Visit: $20
    • Co-Insurance: 100% (in-network)
    • Employee Rate (24 pay checks):
      • Employee Only: $46.31
      • Employee + 1: $92.65
      • Family: $132.22
  • Delta Dental PPO:
    • Deductible: $50 (per person)
    • Annual Maximum: $1,500 (per person)
    • Employee Rate (24 paychecks)
      • Single: $0
      • Employee + 1 Dependent: $20.63
      • Family: $47.23
  • EyeMed Vision Insurance:
    • Annual Eye Exam Co-pay: $0
    • Annual Frame Allowance: $200, plus 20% off the balance over $200
    • Annual Lens Allowance: $200
    • Employee Rate (24 paychecks)
      • Single: $0.00
      • Employee + 1 Dependent: $4.24
      • Family: $8.44
  • Securian Life Insurance:
    • All employees receive Village-paid basic term life coverage valued at 1x base salary and Employee Assistance Program (EAP) services
    • Optional Life Insurance with Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) Coverage for Employees, Spouses, and Children is available for purchase (100% Employee-Paid)
  • National Conference on Public Employee Retirement Systems (NCPERS):
    • Voluntary life insurance for Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF) employees (optional for purchase)
  • Discovery Benefits Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA):
    • Pre-tax dollars the employee may allocate to pay for qualifying out-of-pocket medical, dental, and vision expenses and for the care of dependents
  • Securian Accident, Critical Illness, & Hospital Indemnity plans
Retirement Savings Plans
  • Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF):
    • Mandatory pension plan for non-sworn public employees.
    • Employees Contribute 4.5% of their wages bi-weekly (26 paychecks)
    • Voluntary Additional Contribution savings plan available
  • MissionSquare (ICMA) Retirement Corporation:
    • Optional 457 Deferred Compensation Plan (pre-tax savings)
    • Optional Roth 457 Plan (post-tax savings)
    • Optional Roth IRA Plan (post-tax savings)
  • Nationwide Retirement Solutions:
    • Optional 457 Deferred Compensation Plan (pre-tax savings)
Paid Leave
  • Sick Leave:
    • 12 sick days per year
    • Maximum sick leave accrual is 180 days
  • Vacation Earning Schedule:
    • 1st - 4th year: 10 days
    • 5th - 7th year: 1 additional day (14 days at 8th year)
    • 9th year: 15 days
    • 10th - 13th year: 1 additional day (20 days at 14th year)
    • 15th - 21st year: 21 days
    • 22nd year: 22 days
    • 23rd year: 23 days
    • 24th year: 24 days
    • 25th & subsequent: 25 days
    • Employees can carry over one year's earning of vacation days
  • Personal Days:
    • 5 personal days each calendar year (cannot be carried over year-to-year)
  • Village Holidays:
    • New Year's Day
    • Memorial Day
    • Independence Day
    • Labor Day
    • Thanksgiving Day
    • Day After Thanksgiving
    • Christmas Eve
    • Christmas Day
Other Benefits
  • Commuter Benefits
    • Employees utilizing public transportation to commute to work may use pre-tax dollars to pay for transit passes and qualifying rideshare expenses
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Professional Development

01
Describe your experience working with relays and electrical controls.
02
How did you learn of this position?
03
The Village of Winnetka is committed to remaining a Drug-Free Workplace. I understand the Village's pre-employment process involves drug testing (including cannabis) and the Village retains the right to rescind a conditional offer of employment due to a positive test result for cannabis.
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question