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Lighting Artist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Rob Melrose, Artistic Director at the Alley, took over as artistic leader of the organization in ... Overhire Lighting Technicians will service both Alley theatre spaces for load-ins, changeovers ...

Accommodate artist/ event A/V requirements * Responsible for safe and consistent operation of lighting * Assist with the technical advance with Artists representatives * Ensure proper care and ...

Accommodate artist/ event A/V requirements * Responsible for safe and consistent operation of lighting * Assist with the technical advance with Artists representatives * Ensure proper care and ...

Rob Melrose, Artistic Director at the Alley, took over as artistic leader of the organization in ... Overhire Lighting Technicians will service both Alley theatre spaces for load-ins, changeovers ...

... artists, creating educational programs, and welcoming audiences of all ages and abilities. In ... Lighting Designer A lighting designer at World Cafe Live offers a great opportunity for a talented ...

Accommodate artist/ event A/V requirements * Responsible for safe and consistent operation of lighting * Assist with the technical advance with Artists representatives * Ensure proper care and ...

Accommodate artist/ event A/V requirements * Responsible for safe and consistent operation of lighting * Assist with the technical advance with Artists representatives * Ensure proper care and ...

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Lighting Artist information

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$30.5K

$129.5K

$152.5K

How much do lighting artist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for lighting artist in the United States is $129,541.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $127,000.00 and $152,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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, shading, and lighting techniques. Proficiency with 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 personal projects can also help establish a career in this specialized field.

What does a lighting artist do?

A lighting artist is responsible for creating and adjusting lighting effects in digital environments, such as video games, movies, or animations. They use tools like Maya, Blender, or Unreal Engine to enhance mood, depth, and realism, often collaborating with other artists and technical teams to achieve the desired visual outcome.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Lighting Artist in a production environment?

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.

How much does a lighting artist make?

Lighting artists typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals working on high-profile projects or with specialized skills can earn higher salaries. Many lighting artists also benefit from benefits such as health insurance and creative tools like Maya or Unreal Engine.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Lighting Artist position, and why are they important?

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.

What is a Lighting Artist job?

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.

Are lighting artists in demand?

Lighting artists are in demand in the entertainment and gaming industries, where high-quality visual effects and realistic lighting are essential. The role requires skills in software such as Maya, Blender, or Unreal Engine, and employment opportunities are expected to grow as demand for immersive digital experiences increases.
What cities are hiring for Lighting Artist jobs? Cities with the most Lighting Artist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Lighting Artist jobs? The most popular types of Lighting Artist jobs are:
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What states have the most Lighting Artist jobs? States with the most job openings for Lighting Artist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Lighting Artist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 53% Full Time, 42% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 84% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $129,541 per year, or $62.3 per hour.
Overhire Lighting Technician

Overhire Lighting Technician

ALLEY THEATRE

Houston, TX

$17.50/hr

Other

Retirement

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

OVERVIEW

Founded in 1947 by Nina Vance, the Alley Theatre is a pioneer of regional theatre, and one of the leading nonprofit theatre companies in the United States. The Alley has been awarded the prestigious Regional Theatre Tony Award® and the Texas Medal of Arts Award. The Alley has transferred productions to Broadway, Off-Broadway, major European Festivals, and to 40 American cities. Unique among regional theatres, the Alley is committed to maintaining a Resident Acting Company and providing them with work year-round. Nationally recognized directors, actors, playwrights, and designers from across the country have regularly joined the Resident Acting Company.   


Rob Melrose, Artistic Director at the Alley, took over as artistic leader of the organization in 2019. His vision for the future of the Alley is both thrilling and ambitious. His strategic goals include upholding the Alley’s artistic excellence, keeping longtime Alley Theatre devotees eager to return each season, and creating productions and cultivating new audiences.  


Rob Melrose and Incoming Managing Director Jennifer Bielstein along with Alley’s leadership team are committed to fostering an environment where everyone is encouraged to bring their authentic selves.

JOB STATEMENT

Overhire Lighting Technicians may be hired for Load-in work on an as-needed basis or on a show specific contract to serve as Lightboard Programmer, Lightboard Operator, Followspot Operator, or Deck Electrician. When working on Load-ins, Overhire Lighting Technicians are responsible for the safe installation of lighting equipment and execution of the lighting design under the guidance of the Electrics Supervisor and Alley Theatre Lighting Team. Overhire Lighting Technicians will service both Alley theatre spaces for load-ins, changeovers, focus calls, strikes, notes calls and maintenance calls. Show-specific Overhire Lighting Technicians will be expected to work all assigned technical, dress and brush-up rehearsals, notes sessions and performances. Specific duties could include but would not be limited to Console Programming, Console Operation, Daily Show Maintenance, and/or Followspot Operation.


 

JOB DUTIES

  • Performing as an electrician for load-ins, changeovers, focus calls, strikes, notes calls and maintenance calls.
  • Participating in the preparation of shows. Includes preparing required equipment, organization of color, templates, and other consumables as well as the wiring of practicals and effects.
  • Participating in the maintenance of lighting department equipment and facilities as assigned: including (but not limited to) theatrical lighting instrumentation, practical electrical properties, backstage running lights, projection equipment, chemical and dry ice foggers, effects devices, cue lights and tech tables.
  • Programming and running of the lighting console for all technical, dress and brush-up rehearsals, note sessions and performances as assigned by the Lighting Director.
  • Involvement as a show electrician (Followspot Operator, Deck Electrician, or Video Technician) as productions require.
  • Attending technical rehearsals and run-throughs as assigned by the Lighting Director.
  • Performing daily dimmer/focus checks to maintain the lighting design during the run of the show- correcting any focus problems, changing lamps or burned gel as needed and referring any other problems to the Lighting Director, Associate Lighting Director, and/or Master Electrician.
  • Maintaining cleanliness and promoting a safe working environment in all Lighting areas in the theatre: Lighting Office, control booths, dimmer rooms, grids, catwalks, work areas, and storage spaces.
  • Understanding of (or a commitment to learning about) historical and institutional racism in the American theatre.
  • Additional related duties as assigned by Lighting Director or other Lighting Staff.


In addition to the duties listed above, the Alley Theatre expects the following of each employee:  adheres to theatre’s policies and procedures; works in a safe manner;  performs duties as workload necessitates; maintains a positive and respectful attitude; communicates regularly with supervisor about department issues; demonstrates efficient time management and prioritizes workload; demonstrates regular and consistent attendance and punctuality; meets department productivity standards; participates in Alley Theatre events as needed or required; and completes other duties as assigned.

REQUIREMENTS (SKILLS and KNOWLEDGE)

  • Familiarity and working knowledge of current lighting instruments and equipment.
  • Ability to read and understand common drawings and paperwork used in theatrical lighting installations.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, energized and quickly changing environment.
  • Excellent organizational, interpersonal skills with a proven ability to work independently and as a team player.
  • Understanding of historical and institutional racism in the American theatre, or a commitment to learning, and to be a part of Alley Theatre’s efforts to be an anti-racist organization.
  • To be considered for “Lightboard Programmer,” applicants must have skill programming complex sequences with multi-parameter fixtures on ETC EOS Family Consoles.
  • To be considered for “Lightboard Operator,” applicants must have a general understanding of the functions of ETC EOS Family Consoles and be able to independently troubleshoot and correct common theatrical lighting problems in an efficient manner.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/WORKING CONDITIONS

  • Prolonged periods of standing, ladder work and work on MEWPs (Personnel Lifts).
  • Ability to work at heights of up to 70 feet, in cramped spaces and otherwise limiting job sites.
  • Ability to regularly move and lift 30-50 lbs.
  • Typical hours are during the day, but the position requires the flexibility to be available for weekend, holidays, and evening work hours as needed. 

BENEFITS & PERKS

  • 401(k) with matching, FSA, HRA (Alley paid deductible) 

  • Free and discounted tickets to Alley Theatre performances  

Alley Theatre is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application procedures. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at HRdept@alleytheatre.org.

The Alley Theatre is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable local, state, or federal law. We encourage people of all backgrounds to apply.