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Lighting Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

ABM

Certified Lighting Technician

Pleasanton, CA

$34 - $38/hr

In addition to lighting service contracts, the company also performs lighting and electrical retrofit services including pole replacement, fixture replacement, landscape lighting, sign repairs, exit ...

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All JobsLighting JobsLighting Jobs in California

Lighting information

See California salary details

$12

$21

$31

How much do lighting jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for lighting in California is $21.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $24.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Lighting vs Electrical Technician?

AspectLightingElectrical Technician
CertificationsLighting certifications, electrical safetyElectrical certifications, safety licenses
Work EnvironmentStage, film, architectural projectsConstruction sites, industrial settings
Industry UsageEntertainment, architecture, eventsConstruction, manufacturing, maintenance

Lighting specialists focus on designing and installing lighting systems for various environments, often requiring specific lighting certifications. Electrical Technicians handle broader electrical systems, including wiring and troubleshooting across multiple industries. While both roles require electrical knowledge, Lighting professionals specialize in lighting design and fixtures, making their work more specific to illumination projects.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

In the lighting industry, high-paying roles such as chief lighting designer, lighting director, or executive positions in large production companies can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, leadership responsibilities, and working on major projects. These roles often require advanced skills, industry connections, and sometimes ownership or executive status within organizations.

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

To thrive as a Lighting Technician, you need a solid understanding of lighting design, electrical systems, and safety regulations, often backed by a relevant technical diploma or training. Familiarity with lighting consoles, DMX control systems, and industry-standard fixtures is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and problem-solving skills help you excel during setup, live events, and troubleshooting. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and visually impactful lighting that enhances performances or productions.

What jobs make $3,000 a day?

In the lighting industry, high-paying roles such as freelance lighting designers for large productions or specialized technical directors can earn around $3,000 daily, especially for projects requiring advanced skills, extensive experience, and often working on a contract basis. These roles typically involve working in film, television, or large-scale events and may require certifications, a strong portfolio, and the ability to work long hours. Such high earnings are usually associated with senior-level positions or independent contractors in the field.

What jobs pay $700 a day?

In the lighting industry, freelance or specialized lighting technicians, such as those working on high-budget film, television, or large-scale event productions, can earn $700 or more per day. These roles often require advanced skills, experience, and sometimes certifications, and pay varies based on project scope and location.

What are some common challenges lighting technicians face when working on live events, and how can they prepare for them?

Lighting technicians working on live events often face challenges such as last-minute changes to the event schedule, adapting to different venue layouts, and troubleshooting equipment under tight time constraints. Being well-prepared involves conducting thorough pre-event checks, familiarizing themselves with the venue's infrastructure, and maintaining clear communication with the production team. Staying adaptable, keeping backup equipment on hand, and continuously updating technical skills can help lighting technicians handle these challenges smoothly and ensure successful event execution.

What Are Jobs in the Lighting Industry?

Lighting offers a variety of career opportunities. Examples include working for an electrical products manufacturing company or an energy services company. You can also work as an independent lighting designer, a distributor or wholesaler, a manager or salesperson at a showroom, or a fixture manufacturer. Some people work as a technician to install and setup lighting for homes or businesses. Other people focus on sales. Depending on the career path that you take, other duties and responsibilities might include working to design lighting and fixtures, working in production to create items associated with lighting, or managing lighting stores or factories.

What are lighting professionals and what do they do?

Lighting professionals are experts who design, install, and manage lighting systems for various environments such as theaters, film sets, concerts, architectural spaces, and events. They ensure that the lighting enhances visibility, mood, and aesthetics, as well as meets technical requirements for safety and efficiency. Their work often involves selecting appropriate lighting equipment, programming lighting effects, and collaborating with other professionals like directors or architects to achieve the desired visual impact.

How much do lighting techs get paid?

Lighting technicians typically earn an average hourly wage ranging from $15 to $30, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the production. Entry-level techs may start at lower rates, while experienced professionals working on large productions or with specialized skills can earn higher pay, often supplemented by overtime and per diem allowances.
More about Lighting jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Lighting jobs in California? The most popular types of Lighting jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Lighting jobs in California? For Lighting jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lighting jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Lighting jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Lighting jobs? Cities in California with the most Lighting job openings:
Lighting jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lighting job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,688 per year, or $21 per hour.
Audio Visual Lighting Technician

Audio Visual Lighting Technician

Moonshine Flats

San Diego, CA • On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

LIGHTING TECHNICIAN JOB SUMMARY
Efficiently operate the lighting console and video system for each location. Work professionally and effectively with other members of the audio-visual department to ensure the overall success of the location's entertainment. Maintain a positive work environment and a positive working relationship with coworkers. Exceed our guests' service standards and expectations, while adhering to direction from management.
LIGHTING TECHNICIAN ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Operate Elation NX4 Lighting Controller and Obsidian Onyx OS
  • Operate lighting file for each location to best accommodate each segment of the night and/or private event
  • Operate video system for all segments of the night and/or private event
  • Assist with stage set up including building and positioning of drum risers and ground package lighting
  • Format band/client logos and video content appropriately for Resolume
  • Host room to LD's of National Acts
  • Assist Audio Technician with set up and break down of equipment
  • Maintain a positive, high, well-balanced energy level throughout the entire shift
  • Exhibit consistently dependable, reliable, punctual, and trustworthy conduct
  • Assist with load-in of national acts
  • Follow all proper Audio-Visual procedures and guidelines
  • Assist other members of the Audio-Visual department with duties as directed by management
  • Keep work area and stage clean and organized including fixtures, cables, workstation, ect.

SPECIFIC JOB KNOWLEDGE, SKILL, AND ABILITY
  • Proficient with Elation NX4 Lighting Controller, Obsidian Onyx OS
  • Ability to read, write and speak the English language to interact with guests, the public, and coworkers
  • Proficient verbal communication skills
  • Ability to work under pressure and professionally deal with stressful situations during busy periods in a loud, busy, and crowded environment
  • Familiar with Mac and PC

QUALIFICATION STANDARDS
Education
High School Diploma or GED equivalent preferred
Experience
Minimum of two years' experience in a fast-paced restaurant/bar
Age
Must be at least 21 to work in venues that serve alcoholic beverages
Licenses or Certificates
Food Handlers Card
ABC Service Certification
CPR certification and/or First Aid training preferred
GROOMING
All employees must wear the proper uniform and maintain a neat, clean and well-groomed appearance in accordance with the Company's grooming standards.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/WORKING ENVIRONMENT
  • Must be able to work in an environment with constantly elevated and lighting and sound
  • Must be able to work and move quickly in a tight-space environment in a safe manner without disrupting other employees
  • Must be able to lift at least 25 lbs.

OTHER
Applicants with additional language skills preferred
COMPENSATION IS $25.00 - $30.00 PER HOUR

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