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Spotlight Operator Jobs in California (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 ...

Palace Casino Resort

Entertainment Tech II (On Call)

Pala, CA · On-site

$2.3K - $3.0K/wk

Pala, CA Operating and maintaining of concert and AV equipment in all entertainment venues and ... spotlight maintenance and operation. * Excellent communication skills. * Must read, write, speak ...

Tecan

Material Handler/MRB Coordinator

Morgan Hill, CA

$21 - $23/hr

Experience with Manex, Spotlight, or similar inventory management systems. * Forklift certification or demonstrated experience operating material-handling equipment. * Experience working cross ...

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Spotlight Operator information

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$12

$20

$29

How much do spotlight operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for spotlight operator in California is $20.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $22.55 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.

What are popular job titles related to Spotlight Operator jobs in California?

For Spotlight Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Spotlight Operator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Spotlight Operator jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Spotlight Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Spotlight Operator job openings:

Spotlight Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Spotlight Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,752 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

Entertainment Tech - Theatrical Maintenance (Full-Time Hourly)

Seaworldentertainment

San Diego, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Perform theater/stadium opening and closing duties and daily systems inspections

  • Set up and operate equipment for performances and special events, including stagehand, lighting, audio, and video equipment

  • Troubleshoot, maintain, and repair theatrical equipment

Job description

What you get to do:

  • Perform theater/stadium opening and closing duties and daily systems inspections
  • 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 theatrical equipment
  • Ensure assignments are met and department policies are adhered to
  • Assist Production team with installations for new shows, special events or Consumer Events
  • Monitor and take initiative to ensure assigned show area is 100% show ready, safe and clean at all times
  • Work with Stage Manager to complete assigned daily tasks and complete project list items

What it takes to succeed:

  • Experience with industrial vehicles or watercraft, such as a high reach, forklift, scissor lift, barge, john boat preferred
  • Basic understanding of the following disciplines: electrical theory, basic carpentry, and handling/setup of pyrotechnic materials preferred
  • Ability to read and interpret lighting plots, schematics, and blueprints preferred
  • Working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook equal to business needs preferred
  • Possession of a valid state driver's license preferred


Compensation: 19.50 USD Hourly

What else is important:

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • At least 18 years old
  • Minimum 1 year experience working in a theme park/theatrical environment with specific training in at least one of the following areas: Lighting, Staging, Video, Audio or Equipment Repair (moving lights, pumps, motors, fixtures, pneumatics)
  • Ability to work professionally, responsibly and safely in a team environment
  • Be comfortable operating computers and computerized control systems used in theatrical performances
  • Have good oral and written communication skills, including the ability to communicate professionally via headset
  • Ability to climb a ladder and work at heights between 6 and 65 feet
  • Ability to stand, bend or kneel for long periods of time
  • Ability to bend, reach, twist and turn with complete flexibility
  • Ability to lift, push and pull 50 pounds
  • Be comfortable working in theater and outdoor environments (dark/nighttime conditions, in/around water, in varying weather conditions)
  • Be comfortable working around animals
  • Be comfortable with exposure to noise and vibrations
  • Be able to train on and properly use protective gear
  • Be comfortable working around fumes/dust/odor
  • Be available to work varying shifts or hours based on park hours; i.e be able to work opening and closing shifts, as well as event rehearsal shifts.

EEO Employer:

SEAWORLD PARKS & ENTERTAINMENT IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. ALL APPLICANTS WILL BE CONSIDERED WITHOUT REGARD TO AGE, RACE, COLOR, RELIGION, SEX, NATIONAL ORIGIN, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, PREGNANCY, GENDER IDENTITY OR EXPRESSION, DISABILITY OR COVERED VETERAN STATUS.

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