1

Lighting Programmer Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

ASSEMBLER

Milwaukee, WI

$16.50 - $20.25/hr

Assemble mechanical and electrical components of lighting products, such as fixtures, wiring, and ... Work closely with other assemblers, engineers, and production personnel to ensure smooth workflow ...

ASSEMBLER

Milwaukee, WI

$16.50 - $20.25/hr

Assemble mechanical and electrical components of lighting products, such as fixtures, wiring, and ... Work closely with other assemblers, engineers, and production personnel to ensure smooth workflow ...

Electrical Engineering position involved with the investigation, design, and construction of building interior and exterior lighting, electrical distribution, and power systems. Duties and ...

New

Showing results 21-40

Lighting Programmer information

See Wisconsin salary details

$12

$39

$69

How much do lighting programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for lighting programmer in Wisconsin is $39.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.96 and $51.92 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.

What are popular job titles related to Lighting Programmer jobs in Wisconsin?

For Lighting Programmer jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Lighting Programmer jobs in Wisconsin look for?

The top searched job categories for Lighting Programmer jobs in Wisconsin are:

Infographic showing various Lighting Programmer job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,004 per year, or $39.9 per hour.

Site Lead - Lighting - Clearwing

Milwaukee, WI • On-site

Clair Global
Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation • 51 - 200 employees

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


Clair Global rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Function

The Site Lead is responsible for leading their project team throughout the installation of Lighting, and Rigging systems. They are expected to comprehensively understand the scope, intent, and deliverables of their assigned projects, as well as any established deadlines or schedule constraints. The Site Lead will lead project preparation, installation, and restoration, as well as the daily priorities and milestones established by the Project Management team.

The Site Lead is responsible for coordinating the onsite work with internal and external entities including the Client, Sub-Contractors, and other 3rd party entities. They are expected to operate jobsites in a safe and efficient manner, meeting Clearwing's and the national industry's professional standards. They work closely with Project Management, Engineering, and Field Engineers to identify the project task list and priorities, while engaging or delegating to the most appropriate installation resource.

A successful candidate will be a critical thinking, driven, and detail-oriented leader focused on efficiency, and improvement while being flexible to engage in project installations as needed.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

  • Comprehend the project's overall expectations, priorities, and timeline as established by the Project Manager, while proactively addressing on-site installation concerns.
  • Collaborate with Project Management and Field Engineers to devise installation and deployment plans, structure, and daily objectives.
  • Work with Project Management, Engineering, and Field Engineers to address discrepancies between engineering plans and on-site circumstances.
  • Assist Sales, Project Management, and Field Engineers with Site Surveys and system evaluations as required.
  • Communicate any installation deviations from the system design accurately, capturing changes as redlines for Engineering and As-Builts.
  • Is expected to communicate installation deviations in the system design, while accurately capturing changes redlines for Engineering and As-Builts.
  • Collaborate with the Warehouse Manager to ensure project equipment and tooling are allocated and prepared for each job.
  • Lead the installation team in physically implementing the project, verifying work is in adherence to the system design and Clearwing's standards.
  • Represent Clearwing professionally to all parties, maintaining a safe, clean, and respectful working environment.
  • Conduct daily Safety Briefs, risk assessments, and manage incident reports for installation teams, attending onsite safety meetings as required.
  • Support Project Management in onsite coordination to minimize scope clashes and disruptions to the client and other trades.
  • Coordinate with the assigned Project Coordinator and local Operations Coordinator for additional labor and tooling resources as needed.
  • Work with the assigned Project Coordinator to track installation team expenses, project purchases, and manage the storage and handover of peripheral project equipment.
  • Reflect daily progress in Plangrid through project photos and distribute "End of Day Reports" to the Project and Operations teams, communicating accomplished work, issues, and requested needs.
  • Coordinate with Project Management, Operations Coordinator, and the Technical Services Manager to ensure a proper handoff occurs between the Installation and Technical Services teams.
  • Facilitate project restore, including the reset of all work boxes and the handling of RMA/restocking of remaining project equipment in coordination with Warehouse, Purchasing, and Project Management.
  • Participate in Project Milestone Meetings to evaluate current installation processes and provide insight regarding system installation methods.

Skill/Experience Requirements

  • Must have at least five (5) years field installation experience and (2) years field supervision experience
  • High School diploma or equivalent
  • ETC Lighting and/or ETCP Theater Rigging and/or CTS-I certifications preferred.
  • OSHA 30 certification preferred.
  • Knowledge and experience of construction means, methods, and materials
  • The ability to communicate effectively and operate as a productive member of a larger team
  • The ability to travel up to 75% of the time
  • Read and interpret CSI and Architectural engineering drawings

Physical Working Conditions

  • Must be able to lift up to 50lbs and work with loads up to 250lbs
  • Work at heights on ladders, lifts and stage grids
  • Physical ability to walk, crawl and work in difficult positions and for extended periods.

What Clair Global employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom