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Lighting Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lyric Opera of Chicago

Lighting Assistant

Chicago, IL · On-site

The Lighting Assistant works closely with world-renowned designers and directors, highly skilled professional stage crew, and stage management teams to primarily guide the lighting elements of the ...

New

Lyric Opera of Chicago

Lighting Assistant

Chicago, IL · On-site

$1.4K/wk

The Lighting Assistant works closely with world-renowned designers and directors, highly skilled professional stage crew, and stage management teams to primarily guide the lighting elements of the ...

New

QVC

Lighting Assistant - On Call

West Chester, PA

The Lighting Assistant - On Call supports QVC & HSN. Under the direction of the Manager of Broadcast Lighting, On Call Lighting Assistants support the efforts of the entire Lighting team to enhance ...

Stirling

Lighting Assistant

Houston, TX · On-site

As landscape lighting and electrical specialists, we pay attention to the details that make a ... • Assist foreman with a variety of task that include trench digging, pulling wire and running ...

Livenation

Lighting Engineer

Dallas, TX

Maintenance and repair of lighting equipment * Assist with Production throughout the house as needed * Accommodate artist/ event A/V requirements * Responsible for safe and consistent operation of ...

Livenation

Lighting Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

Maintenance and repair of lighting equipment * Assist with Production throughout the house as needed * Accommodate artist/ event A/V requirements * Responsible for safe and consistent operation of ...

Livenation

Lighting Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Maintenance and repair of lighting equipment * Assist with Production throughout the house as needed * Accommodate artist/ event A/V requirements * Responsible for safe and consistent operation of ...

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Lighting Assistant information

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How much do lighting assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for lighting assistant in the United States is $19.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $21.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Lighting Assistant, you need a solid understanding of lighting principles, basic electrical knowledge, and familiarity with set protocols, often gained through technical training or film production coursework. Experience with lighting control consoles, grip equipment, and safety certifications like OSHA are commonly expected. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication help Lighting Assistants excel in fast-paced, collaborative environments. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and visually effective lighting setups that support the creative vision of film, TV, or live event productions.

How much do lighting people get paid?

Lighting assistants typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the production. Entry-level positions may pay less, while experienced professionals working on large productions can earn higher wages or salaries. Many lighting assistants also receive overtime pay and benefits based on their employment arrangements.

What is the highest paid assistant job?

The highest paid assistant jobs are often executive assistants or personal assistants working for high-level executives or in specialized industries like finance or law, with salaries reaching six figures. These roles typically require advanced organizational skills, experience, and sometimes specific certifications, and may include additional responsibilities such as project management or travel coordination.

What are the most common challenges faced by Lighting Assistants during live events and how can they prepare for them?

Lighting Assistants often encounter challenges such as last-minute changes to lighting plans, working in fast-paced environments, and troubleshooting technical issues under tight deadlines. Preparation involves familiarizing yourself with the lighting equipment, reviewing event cues in advance, and maintaining strong communication with the lighting designer and other crew members. Staying adaptable and proactive can help you handle unexpected situations smoothly and contribute to a successful production.

What is the difference between Lighting Assistant vs Lighting Technician?

AspectLighting AssistantLighting Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingTechnical diploma or certification; some roles require industry-specific training
Work EnvironmentAssists on set or stage, supporting lighting setupPerforms detailed lighting setup, troubleshooting, and maintenance
Job ResponsibilitiesSupports lighting crew, handles equipment transport and setupExecutes lighting design, operates lighting consoles, maintains equipment

Lighting Assistants typically support lighting crews with basic tasks and equipment handling, while Lighting Technicians take on more technical responsibilities, including operation and troubleshooting. Both roles are essential in production environments, but the Technician role requires more specialized skills and certifications.

What does a Lighting Assistant do?

A Lighting Assistant supports the lighting department on film, television, or theater productions by helping set up, adjust, and maintain lighting equipment. They work under the direction of the Lighting Designer or Gaffer, ensuring all lights are positioned correctly and safely. Their duties often include running cables, setting up stands, focusing lights, and sometimes operating equipment during shoots or performances. This role is essential for creating the desired mood and visibility on set, making it a vital part of any production crew.

What jobs pay $700 a day?

Lighting assistants typically do not earn $700 a day; such high daily rates are more common in specialized or senior roles like freelance lighting designers, film gaffers, or technical directors in the entertainment industry. These positions often require extensive experience, technical skills, and sometimes union membership or certifications. Most entry-level or standard lighting assistant roles pay significantly less on a daily basis.
More about Lighting Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Lighting Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Lighting Assistant job openings:
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Lighting Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lighting Assistant job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,214 per year, or $19.8 per hour.
Lighting Assistant

Lighting Assistant

Lyric Opera of Chicago

Chicago, IL • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

New

Job description

REPORTS TO: Lighting and Video Director       
STATUS: Full-time, Exempt, Seasonal
DATES: Approximately August 2026 – April 2027 (possible extension into June 2027)
Lyric Opera of Chicago is where the world sings — and where Chicago comes alive.
Under the leadership of General Director, President & CEO John Mangum and Music Director Enrique Mazzola, Lyric stands at the intersection of artistic excellence and civic purpose, harnessing the full power of opera — voice, orchestra, stagecraft, and story — to illuminate the questions, emotions, and experiences that define us as human beings.
Nearly 75 seasons of world-class performances have made Lyric one of the greatest opera companies in the world. What drives us now is what has always driven us: the belief that this art form, at its best, can move people in ways nothing else can. Lyric is also Chicago’s partner — in its neighborhoods, its schools, and its communities — through education, engagement, and a relentless commitment to making opera accessible, relevant, and irresistible to everyone. At the heart of that commitment is The Patrick G. and Shirley W. Ryan Opera Center, which trains the artists who will carry this art form into its future. Every night when the curtain rises, Lyric reminds this city — and the world — why live performance still matters.
Lyric Opera of Chicago doesn’t just present opera, it redefines what opera can be. It’s where Chicago comes to be moved — come inside.
We are searching for a Lighting Assistant to work in the development of all lighting design aspects of Lyric Opera productions. The Lighting Assistant works closely with world-renowned designers and directors, highly skilled professional stage crew, and stage management teams to primarily guide the lighting elements of the production through the opening. In addition, the Lighting Assistant will collaborate closely with other members of the technical department to produce the highest quality work in a fast-paced repertory environment.
Lyric produces over ten productions a year, a mix of newly designed productions, revivals, rentals, chamber operas, student productions, and special events the Lighting Assistant typically takes on a supportive role for three to four productions per season.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Assist Guest Lighting Designers on productions as assigned.
  • Assist with creation and maintenance of lighting plots, ground plans and deck drawings.
  • Work with other technical department staff to solve lighting and rigging problems.
  • Assist with lighting focus for daily change-over from one production to another.
  • Watch performances to maintain artistic integrity of the lighting design.
  • Coach follow spot cues during rehearsals and performances.
  • Other duties as assigned for productions and programming outside of operas and musical especially marketing and development special events.

Knowledge and Skills:
  • Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
  • Minimum 1-3 years of experience in the field.
  • Opera production knowledge is helpful but not required.
  • The ability to read music at a basic level is helpful.
  • Modern stage lighting technology familiarity.
  • Office practices and procedures including efficient record keeping is a must
  • Microsoft Office, Vectorworks, MLA, Lightwright and AutoCAD
  • Working with and supervising union crews.
  • Work independently with minimal supervision and meet due dates and deadlines.
  • Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
  • Establish effective working relationships and interact with a wide range of colleagues.
  • Maintain several projects of equal priority at once and sustain productivity under pressure.

WORK CONDITIONS:
  • Sit at a computer and/or production desk for up to and over eight hours per day.
  • See clearly in low-light situations such as are common back stage and in the theatre.
  • Stand for a long duration during the focusing of lighting instruments.
  • The employee must be able to perform the functions of the position in a safe manner. 
  • Ability to navigate uneven stage surfaces.
  • Comfortable working in conditions of variable lighting, atmospheric effects, and moving equipment
  • Ability to remain in stationary positions for extended periods.
  • Ability to operate technical equipment and computers.
  • Valid driver’s license.
  • Ability to occasionally oversee evening or weekend functions, deployments or performances.
  • The position is full time mainly Monday-Friday, 8am-4pm, but at times is up to seven days per week, including nights, weekends, and occasional holidays. Therefore, hours and scheduling will vary and are subject to change based on the needs of each production or project.

COMPENSATION: 
Job Classification: Full-time, Exempt, Seasonal
Application Deadline: Monday, July 20, 2026 (5:00pm CT)
Salary Range is $1,400 per week for approximately 40 weeks
Lyric Opera offers benefits including health, dental, vision, 403B (no company match), 401(k) with company match, PTO (including sick, vacation, and personal days, and holidays), life/AD&D coverage, opportunities for professional development, and complimentary tickets.
Lyric Opera of Chicago is committed to enhancing our diverse work environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Lyric prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, religion, sexual orientation, age, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, parental status, socio-economic status, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable federal, state or local laws. We encourage individuals of all backgrounds to apply.
 

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