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Spotlight Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Director of Production

Eagle, ID · On-site

$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 ...

... spotlight operator, light board operator, audio operator; special effects; assisting with puppets, costume dressing changes, etc. Assist with the install, operation and strike of all Entertainment ...

WI · On-site

Contractor Spotlight ... Colie Curry--Deep in the Heart of Texas As Master Plumber, Owner and Operator of Hill Country ...

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Spotlight Operator information

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How much do spotlight operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 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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Cities with the most Spotlight Operator job openings:

What states have the most Spotlight Operator jobs?

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What are popular job titles related to Spotlight Operator jobs?

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Infographic showing various Spotlight Operator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,306 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

Audio/Video Technician (Full Time)

San Antonio, TX

SeaWorld
Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation • 1 - 5K employees

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 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 lighting, audio, and video equipment

  • Troubleshoot, maintain, and repair theatrical equipment


Job description

At SeaWorld, we're passionate about caring for animals. In fact, we've already rescued over 40,000 animals (and counting!). And we can save you from being stuck in just another job. Join us and help bring joy, excitement, and lasting memories to people from around the world. We're seeking enthusiastic, dedicated, and hard-working individuals to become our Ambassadors. Join us and play an important part on our incredible team!

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
  • Pursue personal development of skills and capabilities for effective performance through ongoing training, project assistance and independent study of each field
  • Demonstrate and encourage a positive-attitude work environment
  • Perform other duties as assigned

What it takes to succeed:

  • Possession of a valid state driver's license required
  • Have a high school diploma or equivalent
  • Must be 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
  • Be able 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
  • Ability 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

What else is important:

  • Training or certifications for relevant installation, programming, or repair such as Vari*Lite, Robe, Elation, ETC (lighting); Christie, Panasonic, Daktronics, Blackmagic (video); Q-Sys, Shure, Lectrosonic, Dante (audio)
  • 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

The perks of the position:

  • Paid Time Off
  • Complimentary Park Tickets and Passes
  • Park Discounts on Food and Merchandise
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • 401K Retirement plan
  • Voluntary Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • Disability Benefits
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Dependent and Health Care Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Legal Assistance Plan

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.