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Lighting Artist Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Production Staff - The Norva

Norfolk, VA ยท On-site

$17.68 - $23.92/hr

The Lighting Director will serve as the main point of contact for shows, communicating with staff, vendors, security and artist management. Additionally, the position is responsible for coordinating ...

Production Staff - The Norva

Norfolk, VA ยท On-site

$17.68 - $23.92/hr

The Lighting Director will serve as the main point of contact for shows, communicating with staff, vendors, security and artist management. Additionally, the position is responsible for coordinating ...

Production Staff - The Norva

Norfolk, VA ยท On-site

$17.68 - $23.92/hr

The Lighting Director will serve as the main point of contact for shows, communicating with staff, vendors, security and artist management. Additionally, the position is responsible for coordinating ...

Stagehand Allianz Amphitheater

Richmond, VA ยท On-site

$17.25 - $23/hr

Live Nation's Concerts Division is where tours are born, artists come to life, and fans get to ... Cabling; assist audio & lighting crew as directed * Band Set changes * Ensure that members of the ...

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Lighting Artist information

See Virginia salary details

$30.2K

$128.4K

$151.2K

How much do lighting artist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for lighting artist in Virginia is $128,429.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $125,900.00 and $150,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lighting artist?

A Lighting Artist is responsible for creating and implementing lighting setups that enhance the mood, atmosphere, and visual quality of scenes in films, video games, or animations. They work with 3D environments, adjusting light sources, shadows, and color tones to achieve artistic and realistic effects. Their role involves collaborating with other artists, such as modelers and texture artists, to ensure consistency in visual storytelling. Lighting Artists also optimize lighting for performance while maintaining high-quality visuals.

What does a lighting artist do?

As a Lighting Artist, your daily responsibilities typically include setting up and adjusting lighting rigs, refining the mood and atmosphere of digital scenes, and collaborating with other departments such as modeling, texturing, and compositing to achieve the desired visual effect. You will review feedback from art directors or supervisors and update scene lighting to meet project goals and maintain visual consistency. Additionally, troubleshooting rendering issues and optimizing lighting setups for performance are common tasks. The role often involves a mix of creative and technical problem-solving, making versatility and attention to detail crucial for success.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lighting artist?

To thrive as a Lighting Artist, you need a strong understanding of light, color theory, composition, and visual storytelling, typically supported by a degree in art, animation, or a related field. Mastery of industry-standard 3D software such as Maya, Houdini, Unreal Engine, or proprietary rendering tools is essential, and certification in these tools can be advantageous. Strong collaboration, adaptability, and effective communication skills help Lighting Artists work seamlessly with artists, designers, and technical teams. These combined abilities ensure the creation of visually compelling scenes that meet both artistic vision and technical requirements in fast-paced production environments.

Are lighting artists in demand?

Lighting artists are in demand in the entertainment and gaming industries, as they play a key role in creating realistic and visually appealing environments. The demand is driven by the growth of 3D rendering, visual effects, and real-time graphics, requiring skills in software like Maya, Blender, or Unreal Engine. Job opportunities often require a strong portfolio and proficiency in lighting techniques and tools.

How do I become a lighting artist?

To become a lighting artist, you typically need a bachelor's degree in art, computer graphics, or a related field, along with strong skills in 3D modeling, rendering, and lighting techniques. Proficiency in industry-standard software such as Autodesk Maya, Blender, or Unreal Engine is essential, and building a portfolio showcasing lighting work is highly recommended. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions in game or film production can also help establish a career in this field.

How much do lighting artists make?

Lighting artists typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Senior lighting artists or those working on high-profile projects can earn higher salaries, especially with proficiency in tools like Maya or Unreal Engine. Entry-level positions may start lower but often include benefits and opportunities for advancement.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lighting Artist jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Lighting Artist jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Lighting Artist jobs in Virginia?

For Lighting Artist jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Lighting Artist job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, and 23% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $128,429 per year, or $61.7 per hour.

Show Lighting Technician

Williamsburg, VA โ€ข On-site

SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment
Arts, Entertainment, and Recreationย โ€ขย 10K+ employees

Part-time

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

SEASONAL POSITION
Busch Gardens is a place of thrills, fun and positive, lasting memories. And that's just what its like to work here! As a key member of our team, you'll play a major role in bringing happiness and excitement to people from around the world. If you're dedicated, dependable and driven to deliver exceptional guest service, this is a place for you!
Seasonal Show Lighting Technincian
What you get to do:
  • Participates as an integral contributor to the Theatrical Services and Entertainment Show Operations teams.
  • Executes the operation and general maintenance of Show Product lighting and/or video, either as a console or followspot operator.
  • Collaborates with Theatrical Services, Entertainment Show Production, and Entertainment Show Operations teams to achieve project goals and objectives.
  • Works with outside contractors.
  • Maintains Entertainment facilities and equipment.
  • Works with department schedules and paperwork in order to achieve Entertainment product goals and objectives.
  • Follows project timelines to ensure park and departmental goals, safety targets, and objectives are obtained.
  • Follows park and department safety guidelines.
  • Participates in the Theatrical Services department training programs.
  • Participates in other duties as assigned to support park and departmental goals and objectives.
  • Show Operations: Execute operational Show Product work based on park and department goals and objectives and other duties as assigned.
  • Theatrical Services: Participates in the installation, removal, and maintenance of entertainment lighting and video equipment when Show Product is not operational.
  • Training and Development: Participates in Theatrical Services training and development programs and department safety initiatives.

What it takes to succeed:
  • Proven technical skills, strong communication skills
  • Positive attitude, team player
  • Multi-tasking skills
  • Collaboration skills

Education and Special Skills:
  • Must be 18 years of age or older
  • Valid US Driver's License required
  • Associates or BA in Technical Theatre, Theatre Arts, or equivalent professional experience preferred.
  • 2 years professional technical entertainment lighting experience preferred.
  • Experience with ETC EOS family lighting consoles preferred.
  • Experience with show control networking preferred (sACn, ArtNet).
  • Experience with the maintenance of moving lights preferred (Robe, Vari*Lite).
  • Experience with hand tools and theatrical lighting equipment
  • Ability to work at heights to over 75' required.
  • Ability to lift and move 50 pounds required.
  • Ability to perform outdoor work in temperature extremes and overnight shifts required.

Compensation: 16.50 USD
The perks of the position: Ambassadors will enjoy a fun, fast-paced environment, and great teammates, as well as:
  • FREE park admission
  • Discounts on park admission tickets and passes for family and friends
  • Park discounts on food, merchandise, etc.
  • Scholarship opportunities
  • Exclusive employee events and giveaways

EEO Employer:
SEAWORLD PARKS & ENTERTAINMENT IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. ALL APPLICANTS WILL BE CONSIDERED WITHOUT REGARD TO AGE, RACE, COLOR, RELIGION, SEX, NATIONAL ORIGIN, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, PREGNANCY, GENDER IDENTITY OR EXPRESSION, DISABILITY OR COVERED VETERAN STATUS.