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Lighting Engineer Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

ALLEY THEATRE

Overhire Lighting Technician

Houston, TX · On-site

$18/hr

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 ...

RimePro Inc

Electrical Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

Design electrical systems for assigned projects, including lighting, power, fire alarm, emergency power, and technology systems. * Perform engineering calculations and produce accurate AutoCAD and ...

Converge Resources

Electrical Engineer

Houston, TX

Power distribution (low and medium voltage) Lighting systems and controls Emergency and standby power systems Fire alarm and life safety systems Develop detailed engineering drawings and models using ...

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How much do lighting engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for lighting engineer in Houston, TX is $33.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.90 and $35.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lighting engineer?

Lighting Engineers are professionals who design, implement, and manage lighting systems for a variety of spaces, such as theaters, film sets, architectural projects, and public events. They ensure that lighting enhances visibility, safety, and aesthetics while also meeting technical and energy efficiency requirements. Lighting Engineers work closely with architects, designers, and other engineers to create effective lighting solutions that meet the needs of each project.

What does a lighting engineer do?

A lighting engineer or technician works on the lights and their accompanying equipment for live or recorded entertainment. As a lighting engineer, your duties include inspection and testing of these electrical fixtures, as well as the development of a set-up and setting that works best for the show. You work collaboratively with stage and camera techs to create both functional and visually appealing lighting. Experience in the specific type of show you are lighting is beneficial, as lights for a theater performance are different than a rock concert.

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

To thrive as a Lighting Engineer, you need a solid understanding of electrical engineering principles, lighting design, and relevant safety codes, often backed by a degree in engineering or related fields. Familiarity with lighting simulation software (such as DIALux or AGi32), CAD tools, and knowledge of industry standards are typically required. Attention to detail, creativity, and strong communication skills help in collaborating with architects, designers, and clients to achieve optimal lighting solutions. These competencies are crucial to ensure safe, efficient, and aesthetically pleasing lighting systems that meet project specifications and regulatory requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by lighting engineers when working on large-scale projects?

Lighting Engineers on large-scale projects often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple departments, adapting designs to budget constraints, and ensuring compliance with safety and energy regulations. Balancing creative lighting concepts with practical installation limitations can also be demanding. Effective communication with architects, project managers, and electricians is essential to keep projects on track and achieve the desired results. These challenges require strong problem-solving skills and flexibility to adapt to evolving project needs.

What is the difference between Lighting Engineer vs Lighting Designer?

AspectLighting EngineerLighting Designer
CredentialsEngineering degree, certifications in lighting or electrical engineeringDesign-focused education, architecture or interior design background
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, technical planning, electrical systemsArchitectural projects, creative design, client presentations
Industry UsageConstruction, infrastructure, technical lighting projectsArchitectural, theatrical, interior design projects

Lighting Engineers focus on technical aspects, electrical systems, and ensuring compliance, while Lighting Designers emphasize aesthetic, creative concepts, and user experience. Both roles collaborate but serve different primary functions within lighting projects.

How much does a lighting engineer earn?

Lighting engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Senior or specialized lighting engineers can earn higher salaries, especially when working on large projects or in high-demand markets.
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Lighting Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lighting Engineer job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,214 per year, or $33.8 per hour.

Overhire Lighting Technician

ALLEY THEATRE

Houston, TX • On-site

$18/hr

Other

Retirement

Re-posted 5 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.

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