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Stage Lighting Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... designers. * Functions as lighting supervisor for all opera, ballet, concert and other performance events at the center. Oversees the execution of stage lighting for productions presented by the ...

Stage Hand

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

The Stage Hand plays an important role in the successful production of events by preparing, setting ... This position works closely with visiting artists, performers, production crews, lighting designers ...

Experience in stage lighting, pro audio systems and basic video systems. * Ability to handle ... It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties ...

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Stage Lighting Designer information

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$19.5K

$60.2K

$113K

How much do stage lighting designer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for stage lighting designer in the United States is $60,153.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,500.00 and $75,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a stage lighting designer do?

A Stage Lighting Designer is responsible for creating the lighting plan and effects for live performances such as theater, concerts, or events. They work closely with directors, set designers, and technicians to ensure that lighting enhances the mood, visibility, and overall impact of a production. Their work involves choosing lighting equipment, programming lighting cues, and overseeing installation and operation during rehearsals and performances. The designer also addresses any technical or creative challenges that arise to achieve the desired artistic vision.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a stage lighting designer?

To thrive as a Stage Lighting Designer, you need a solid understanding of lighting theory, color, stagecraft, and often a degree in theater production or a related field. Familiarity with lighting consoles (such as ETC or GrandMA), CAD software, and lighting design programs like Vectorworks Spotlight is typically required. Creativity, strong collaboration, and problem-solving skills help designers work effectively with directors and production crews. These abilities ensure that lighting enhances the mood, visibility, and overall impact of stage performances.

What are some common challenges faced by stage lighting designers when collaborating with directors and other production team members?

Stage lighting designers often navigate the challenge of aligning their creative vision with the director's concept and the overall production design. Effective communication is crucial, as lighting must complement set, costume, and sound design, often requiring compromises and adjustments during rehearsals. Managing technical limitations, such as venue equipment or budget constraints, is also common. Successful designers remain flexible, proactive in problem-solving, and responsive to feedback from the broader production team.

What is the difference between Stage Lighting Designer vs Lighting Technician?

AspectStage Lighting DesignerLighting Technician
CredentialsLighting design degree or equivalent, certifications in lighting softwareTechnical training, certifications in lighting equipment operation
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, theaters, concert venuesOn-site at venues, event setups, live productions
Employer & IndustryTheater companies, production houses, concert organizersEvent companies, theaters, touring productions

While both roles work with lighting, the Stage Lighting Designer focuses on creating the overall lighting concept and design, whereas the Lighting Technician handles the technical setup, operation, and maintenance of lighting equipment during productions.

More about Stage Lighting Designer jobs

What cities are hiring for Stage Lighting Designer jobs?

Cities with the most Stage Lighting Designer job openings:

What states have the most Stage Lighting Designer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Stage Lighting Designer jobs include:

Infographic showing various Stage Lighting Designer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,153 per year, or $28.9 per hour.

Lighting Designer/Tech

Community Bible Church

San Antonio, TX • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

JOB SUMMARY


The Lighting Designer, using a high degree of creativity, invention, imagination and originality, is responsible for the creation of the lighting design for a given production including but not limited to CBC services, conferences and special events.


ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS


Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.


  • Provide high degree of creativity in designing light show for worship services and events.

  • Design, plot and install lighting equipment to influence mood and perceptual sensory.

  • Program and operate computer controlled lighting board and moving lights.

  • Work in concert with music ministry and audio and video production personnel.

  • Responsible for training and scheduling of staff/volunteers to assist in placement of lights, proper functioning during performances, and removal and storage.

  • Create script with light cues.

  • Brings together, with Production Team members, all elements of the show as a coordinated, cohesive unit.

  • Before tech rehearsal, supervises lighting check using all set pieces to see that they have adequate lighting.

  • Supervise tech rehearsal and coordinate spot lights according to light plan.

  • Ensure all work in completed on time, on budget, and consistently within CBC's high standard of quality.

  • Inspect, repair and produce lighting equipment, accessories and hardware as necessary.

  • Assist with Weekend Services as a Video/Camera Operator.

  • Attends regularly scheduled Production Team meetings.

  • Other duties assigned as needed.


COMPETENCIES


  • Knowledge in computer technology and the Internet (MS Office 2000, MS Outlook 2000, MS Publisher, etc...), including the ability to learn new programs easily.

  • An understanding of how quality light and lighting effects enhance the overall impact of the show.

  • An understanding of how the lighting relates to costumes, set design, and choreography.

  • Working knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.

  • Working knowledge of video projectors and camera equipment.

  • Working knowledge of audio/visual signal flow.

  • Ability to repair audio and video cable.

  • Demonstrates good artistic sense.

  • Has professional manner and high energy level, exhibits a positive attitude.  

  • An enthusiastic leader and team player with a positive attitude.

  • Accepts new ideas and challenges and is highly motivated.


POSITION TYPE/EXPECTED HOURS OF WORK


This is a regular full-time position (36-40 hrs). Evenings and weekends required.


PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS


While performing the duties of this job, the employee may be regularly required to do the following:


Walking, bending, stooping, lifting 10-75 lbs, occasional events/activities outdoors in the heat, occasional events/activities requiring prolonged standing. Working with electrical audio visual components and equipment. Varying audio and light levels.


EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE


  • College degree from an accredited university 

  • 3 years of relevant work experience


WORK ENVIRONMENT


Duties are performed in a variety of settings to include, outside, office and technical settings where the work and general environment may be fast-paced and hectic at times. Therefore, it is essential that the employee can effectively handle the normal anxieties associated with the job and manage multiple projects in service-oriented environment. Environmental noise levels are minimal. 


OTHER DUTIES


  • Bachelor's Degree in Lighting Design, Theater Arts, Radio, Television or Film and related technical training or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the knowledge and abilities necessary to perform the duties including previous experience in stage lighting design and techniques.

  • Attend worship regularly.

  • Maintain personal accountability and relationships with staff members.

  • Maintain daily disciplines of Bible study, prayer, and preparation.

  • Must live in faith according to 1 Timothy 3.

  • CBC Member. Genuine desire to serve God and the Church and must be a professed Christian.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME