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Lighting Programmer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Primary intelligent lighting programmer for chapels, concerts and other ORU special events in Mabee Center and other venues on campus. Assists in the setup, installation, planning, and operation of ...

Exterior Lighting Engineer - Location: Irvine, CA Responsibilities * MUST HAVE experience as a Lighting DRE (Min 3 years) * Good knowledge of Automotive exterior lighting systems along with Key ...

Lighting Engineer Hyundai America Technical Center, Inc. (HATCI) is looking for an experienced engineer to join the Exterior Lighting Team of the Exterior Engineering Design Department What You Will ...

Lighting Engineer Hyundai America Technical Center, Inc. (HATCI) is looking for an experienced engineer to join the Exterior Lighting Team of the Exterior Engineering Design Department What You Will ...

Lighting Engineer

Ypsilanti, MI · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Hyundai America Technical Center, Inc. (HATCI) is looking for an experienced engineer to join the Exterior Lighting Team of the Exterior Engineering Design Department What You Will Do: * Design ...

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Lighting Engineer

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

The Lighting Solutions Engineer serves as the technical link between customers, sales, engineering, and manufacturing. This role ensures lighting products are properly specified, applied, and ...

Lighting Engineer

Dearborn, MI · On-site

$65K - $166K/yr

The Ford Exterior Lighting Engineer role spans a variety of engineering fields including mechanical, electrical, software, and optics. This position involves responsibilities including definition of ...

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Lighting Programmer information

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How much do lighting programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for lighting programmer in the United States is $39.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.72 and $51.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a lighting programmer do?

A Lighting Programmer is responsible for programming and operating lighting control systems for live events, theater productions, concerts, and broadcasts. They work closely with Lighting Designers to translate creative visions into executable lighting cues using specialized software and consoles. Their role involves troubleshooting technical issues, ensuring smooth transitions, and sometimes live-operating the lighting during performances. Strong technical knowledge of lighting equipment and software, such as GrandMA or ETC Eos, is essential.

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

A successful Lighting Programmer requires a solid background in lighting design, programming logic, and often a relevant degree or technical training in entertainment technology. Proficiency with industry-standard lighting consoles (such as MA Lighting grandMA or ETC Eos), DMX protocols, and show control systems is expected, along with certifications in these systems being advantageous. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills are vital, as Lighting Programmers frequently collaborate with designers, directors, and stage crews under tight deadlines. Mastery of these areas ensures seamless and visually impactful productions, efficient troubleshooting, and effective collaboration in high-pressure environments.

What are the typical responsibilities of a lighting programmer during a live production?

As a Lighting Programmer, you are responsible for setting up, programming, and operating complex lighting cues that align with the vision of the lighting designer and the overall production. This role often involves working closely with lighting designers, directors, and stage management to translate creative concepts into technical execution, attending rehearsals, and making on-the-fly adjustments during performances. You may also be tasked with troubleshooting equipment, maintaining show files, and supporting other crew members as needed. The role requires both technical precision and creative interpretation to ensure every cue enhances the audience’s experience. Expect a collaborative and sometimes fast-paced work environment, particularly during tech rehearsals and live events.

How to get into lighting programming?

Lighting programmers typically start by gaining experience in stage or event lighting, learning to operate lighting control software such as DMX or lighting consoles. Developing technical skills, understanding lighting design principles, and obtaining relevant certifications can improve job prospects; internships or entry-level positions in production companies also provide valuable experience.
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Infographic showing various Lighting Programmer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $82,234 per year, or $39.5 per hour.

Entertainment Lighting Console Engineer

Theater Outsource Inc

Austin, TX • On-site

$76.50 - $93.50/hr

Other

Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Are you an experienced lighting programmer who has spent years behind a Hog console? Have you toured with productions, programmed complex shows, and solved real-world lighting challenges under pressure?

Our client is looking for a seasoned entertainment lighting professional to help shape the next generation of live event control software. This is a unique opportunity to move from the show floor into product development, where your experience will directly influence the tools used by lighting programmers around the world.

What You'll Do
  • Test and evaluate professional lighting control software and console hardware.
  • Validate new features, workflows, and system performance from a programmer’s perspective.
  • Identify, document, and reproduce software issues while working closely with engineering teams.
  • Help improve software usability based on real-world production experience.
  • Test networked lighting systems utilizing DMX, Art‑Net, and sACN.
  • Participate in system integration testing across multiple lighting consoles and show environments.
  • Collaborate with Product Management and Engineering to improve future software releases.
  • Provide technical insight based on professional touring, theatrical, broadcast, or live event experience.
What We're Looking For
  • 5+ years of professional Hog console programming experience.
  • Background in concert touring, live events, theatre, broadcast, or large‑scale entertainment productions.
  • Strong understanding of lighting control systems and networked show environments.
  • Experience with DMX, Art‑Net, and sACN.
  • Excellent troubleshooting and problem‑solving skills.
  • Ability to clearly document technical findings and communicate with engineering teams.
  • Passion for improving the tools used by lighting professionals worldwide.
  • Up to $85,000 based on experience.
  • 401(k) with company contribution.
  • Paid vacation and holidays.
  • Career growth with an innovative entertainment technology company.

If you've spent your career programming professional lighting systems and want to help build the next generation of control technology, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today or contact Theater Outsource for a confidential conversation.

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