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Spotlight Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hospitality Spotlight

Hotel Banquet Chef

Aptos, CA · On-site

Hospitality Spotlight is working with a luxury client in the central coast of California and we are ... Enforce proper SSOP (sanitation standard operating procedures) * Resolve problems and communicate ...

SeaWorld

Seasonal Entertainment Technician

Orlando, FL

$13 - $16.75/hr

Setup and operate daily performances and special events as a stagehand, spotlight operator, lighting operator, audio operator or camera/video equipment operator * Troubleshoot, maintain and repair ...

Spotlight Media

Senior Project Manager

New York, NY · Remote

Spotlight is not just a place to execute campaigns-it's a blank canvas where ambitious people can build real leverage, take on increasing responsibility, and grow into senior operators quickly. Our ...

Spotlight Media

Senior Project Manager

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$100 - $140/hr

Spotlight is not just a place to execute campaigns--it's a blank canvas where ambitious people can build real leverage, take on increasing responsibility, and grow into senior operators quickly. Our ...

Spotlight Events Inc

Director of Production

Eagle, ID · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Job Type Full-time Description Who We Are Spotlight Events, Inc. is an employee-owned (ESOP), a ... Powered by the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) and grounded in accountability, excellence ...

Spotlight Events Inc

Director of Production

Eagle, ID

$90K - $110K/yr

Description Who We Are Spotlight Events, Inc. is an employee-owned (ESOP), a purpose-driven ... Powered by the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) and grounded in accountability, excellence ...

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How much do spotlight operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for spotlight operator in the United States is $20.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $22.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a spotlight operator?

A Spotlight Operator is responsible for controlling and adjusting spotlights to highlight performers, speakers, or specific stage areas during live events, theater productions, or broadcasts. They follow cues from the lighting designer or stage manager to ensure proper timing, brightness, and focus. This role requires precision, quick reflexes, and familiarity with lighting equipment. It may also involve equipment maintenance and troubleshooting to ensure smooth operation during performances.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a spotlight operator?

To thrive as a Spotlight Operator, you need a solid grasp of stage lighting techniques, attention to detail, and capability to physically handle lighting equipment, with experience often gained through technical theatre training or on-the-job learning. Familiarity with lighting control boards, spotlights, safety rigging, and sometimes basic electrics or union certification is important. Strong communication skills, teamwork, and the ability to remain calm and focused under pressure are vital soft skills. These competencies are crucial to ensure precise, seamless lighting that supports live performances and enhances overall audience experience.

What are some typical challenges a spotlight operator might face during live performances?

Spotlight Operators often encounter challenges such as quickly adapting to last-minute changes in cues, maintaining focus and concentration throughout long performances, and coordinating smoothly with other crew members under time-sensitive conditions. They must be prepared to troubleshoot technical issues with equipment on the fly and make precise adjustments as performers move unpredictably on stage. Working in low-light, elevated, or confined spaces can also be physically demanding. Staying composed and attentive is key to ensuring the performance runs smoothly and that performers are always correctly illuminated.

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Spotlight Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Spotlight Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, and 67% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,306 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

Student Employee, VRCFA Stage Crew 26-27 Academic Year

Shawnee State University

Portsmouth, OH • On-site

$11/hr

Part-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Salary: $11.00 Hourly
Location : 940 Second St. Portsmouth, OH 45662, OH
Job Type: Part-Time
Job Number: POS-683
Division: Finance and Administration
Department: AEM-Vern Riffe Center for the Arts
Opening Date: 08/14/2026
Closing Date: 5/9/2027 11:59 PM Eastern
Job Description Summary
ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT:
The Vern Riffe Center for the Arts Stage Crew provides technical and backstage support for concerts, theatrical productions, university programs, community events, touring productions, lectures, meetings, and other events presented at or utilizing the VRCFA.
This is an as-needed, event-based position with no guaranteed number of hours per week. Work opportunities are determined by the VRCFA event schedule and production requirements. Hours may vary considerably from week to week and throughout the year.
Stage Crew members work under the supervision of the VRCFA Production Manager and assist in providing a safe, professional, and efficient environment for visiting artists, university productions, rental clients, and audiences.
POSITION SUMMARY, ROUTINE TASKS & RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Assist with load-in, setup, operation, changeover, and load-out of performances and events.
  • Load and unload trucks containing scenery, lighting, audio equipment, musical instruments, road cases, and other production equipment.
  • Set up and strike staging, platforms, risers, orchestra equipment, chairs, tables, music stands, curtains, and other event equipment.
  • Assist with the installation, focusing, cabling, operation, and removal of theatrical lighting equipment.
  • Assist with audio equipment, including microphones, speakers, monitors, consoles, cabling, stands, and related equipment.
  • Assist with scenery, props, soft goods, projection/video equipment, and other production elements.
  • Serve as deck crew, running crew, spotlight operator, lighting assistant, audio assistant, stagehand, or other backstage position during performances.
  • Assist VRCFA staff and visiting touring personnel with production requirements.
  • Perform stage changeovers during concerts and other live events.
  • Assist with maintaining clean and organized stages, backstage areas, dressing rooms, control areas, shops, loading areas, and equipment storage spaces.
  • Properly handle, transport, and store VRCFA and Shawnee State University equipment.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Registered full-time SSU student
  • Eligible to work in the United States
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Demonstrate reliability, punctuality, and follow instructions
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Basic proficiency with Microsoft Office and social media platforms
  • Follow SSU dress code policy

This position is not eligible for benefits.

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