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Lighting Programmer Jobs in Denver, CO (NOW HIRING)

Quality Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$75K - $97K/yr

About the Role We're seeking a detail-driven, proactive Quality Engineer to join our team in ensuring that every lighting product we manufacture meets the highest standards of performance, safety ...

MissionHires is seeking an Electrical Engineer with 3+ years of experience in building consulting ... The role focuses on electrical power, lighting, fire alarm, and building systems design, with ...

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Lighting Programmer information

See Denver, CO salary details

$12

$40

$70

How much do lighting programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for lighting programmer in Denver, CO is $40.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.49 and $52.93 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 the most commonly searched types of Lighting Programmer jobs in Denver, CO?

The most popular types of Lighting Programmer jobs in Denver, CO are:

What are popular job titles related to Lighting Programmer jobs in Denver, CO?

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

What job categories do people searching Lighting Programmer jobs in Denver, CO look for?

The top searched job categories for Lighting Programmer jobs in Denver, CO are:

Infographic showing various Lighting Programmer job openings in Denver, CO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $84,634 per year, or $40.7 per hour.

Lighting Designer - Future Opportunities

HLB Lighting Design

Denver, CO • On-site

$72K - $77K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Assist in managing project scopes, deadlines, and budgets, including reviewing fee drafts and creating labor hour estimates.

  • Support the team in producing design work efficiently and independently on specific project scopes such as calculations or documentation.

  • Interface with clients and team members to communicate project needs, manage expectations, and build professional relationships.


Job description

Description
Supports the work of 1 or more team members and displays judgement and independent thinking in the design process. Position is 70% designer / 30% project manager.
Achieving Results - Project Responsibilities
  • Use critical thinking and discretion in assessing specific project needs and communicating effectively to the project manager.
  • Begin to familiarize/learn the process for reviewing monthly fee drafts with Project Manager/Associate/Principal.
  • Begins to understand how to apply authorized scope of work to tasks and meet deadlines.
  • Assist in managing agendas, meeting minutes, and regular project status communications to build knowledge in these areas.
  • Work independently on specific scopes of a project like calculations or documentation.
  • Supports the team to produce work efficiently and profitably.
  • Assists the project manager in creating labor hour budgets for projects. Working with Clients - Client Responsibilities
  • Develop good client and/or related business relationships.
  • Enhance HLB's value to the client and promote the firm.
  • Use communication tools to manage client expectations.

Working with Clients - Client Responsibilities
  • Starts to develop good client and/or related business relationships - working well with their equal at other firms
  • Enhance HLB's value to the client and promote the firm
  • Uses communication tools to manage client expectations

Working with Teammates and Managers - Management Responsibilities
  • Exhibit flexibility and cooperation with teammates.
  • Manage own work time and priorities and show ability to also do this with the project team.
  • Understand good framework for resolving issues.
  • Interface among the principals, design/technical staff and business team as needed.

HLB's Corporate Culture and Values - Responsibilities to HLB initiatives
  • Participation in and contribution to procedures and environment that are in the best interest of the firm.
  • Represent the firm in a professional manner.
  • Participation in Designing Our Future/HLB 10:10 Vision, C2Q initiatives.
  • Reinforce HLB values - Artistry, Curiosity, Balance, Integrity, Legacy.
  • Look for opportunities to collaborate with other HLB offices on project, DOF, C2Q, business workgroup avenues in a meaningful way.

Requirements
Skill Set
  • Excellent Organizational skills
  • Proven technical skills appropriate to work area
  • Oral and written skills
  • Computer programs: Revit, Excel, Word, Power Point, Adobe Suite including Acrobat, Photoshop and InDesign, AutoCAD, AGI or Visual or Elum Tools, Diva, Grasshopper, Ecotect, Radiance, Daysim, Rhino, Radiance, Vision - as applicable to their role or business group
  • Ability to prioritize / time management skills
  • Self-motivated and self-directed
  • Team player
  • Motivator
  • Dependable

Education & Experience
  • Bachelor's degree or above in Lighting Design or Architectural Engineering or Architecture or Interior Design or Theatrical Lighting or related education and experience
  • 2 to 4 years' experience
  • Certification in Lighting Design (e.g. LC) or certification related to their field / degree or endeavoring to obtain it.
  • LEED BD+C or endeavors to achieve
  • IALD Associate level or above or endeavoring to obtain it.
  • Participate in industry related professional organizations locally

Compensation
$72,600 to $77,200
The final agreed upon compensation is based on cost of living, individual education, qualifications, and experience.
Benefit Clause: Includes but not limited to Medical, Dental & Vision plans, flexible spending account, 401(k) plans, life & AD&D insurance, short/long term disability plans, holidays, and paid time off.