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Stage Lighting Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Livenation

Lighting Engineer - MH

New Orleans, LA · On-site

Experience in stage lighting, pro audio systems and basic video systems. Ability to handle multiple ... 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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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.

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Stage Lighting Designer jobs near you
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.

Senior Lighting Technician - Live Events

Show Imaging

Vista, CA • On-site

$28 - $35/hr

Other

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

SUMMARY
Show Imaging is a solutions driven community of creators who aim to authentically enrich people's lives by producing world-class experiences, inclusive of all. We create live experiences through cutting edge technology, creative design, and hands-on project management. Our service offerings include creative and design, program development and project management, software, and web development, and full-service production technology.
The Senior Lighting Technician serves as the in-house and event-based technical expert. They manage Show Imaging's lighting inventory, design and execute large-scale events (e.g. general sessions, touring artists, etc.), interface with clients, and train junior lighting technicians.
Technicians are responsible for all incoming and outgoing shipments, including loading/off-loading trucks, pallets and shelving products, and maintaining accurate inventory records. They must follow incoming and outgoing delivery protocols, safely assist team members with shipments, and may drive company vehicles to and from show sites.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
  • Serve as Lead Lighting Technician and point-of-contact for event Production Managers, clients, and crew on the day of an event
  • Deliver exceptional client customer service, including meetings, site visits, etc.
  • Setup, work, and strike events produced by Show Imaging or its affiliates
  • Create and interpret lighting designs for live entertainment and corporate events
  • Operate, program, and troubleshoot complex lighting systems
  • Oversee lighting equipment maintenance and inventory
  • Prepare, load, and transport equipment to events as determined by the event pull sheet
  • Ensure that all aspects of the event run smoothly and exceed the client's expectations
  • Troubleshoot and problem solve issues presented by clients or other crew throughout event
  • Collaborate with production teams to meet all lighting needs
  • Provide guidance and training to junior lighting technicians and warehouse staff
  • Perform other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS/REQUIREMENTS
Required:
  • 5+ years of stage lighting experience
  • Prior warehouse experience
  • Proficient in:
    • Lighting design and direction
    • grandMA lighting consoles, media servers, networking, and professional lighting fixtures
    • Vectorworks CAD design software
    • Lighting warehouse preparations including all load in and load out activities
  • Familiarity with basic signal flow principals
  • Familiarity with general inventory and inventory tracking system
  • Demonstrated knowledge of security and safety requirements
  • Strong interpersonal and customer service skills; willingness to support and proactively communicate with teammates and crew members
  • Strong organizational skills - detail oriented, ability to effectively prioritize, and deadline driven
  • Ability to troubleshoot and determine the appropriate solutions to challenges as they arise
  • Excellent verbal and written English communication skills
  • High school diploma or GED
  • Possess valid driver's license with clean DMV record; ability to commute to and from events

Preferred:
  • Experience with Hog lighting consoles
  • Familiarity with and interest in audio and video equipment
  • Experience with Flex inventory tracking system
  • College degree or experience in related fields
  • Lighting certifications

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
  • Safely lift, move and transport equipment, materials and tools weighing 50 lbs. unassisted or more to complete assigned projects
  • Stand for extended periods of time, as well as bend, stoop, crawl, stretch, climb, and/or lift repeatedly
  • Work in various climates and conditions including warehouse and outdoor elements (e.g. noise, dust, weather)
  • Work performed in a combination of warehouse, outdoor, venue and office environments
  • Operate carts, dollies, pallet jacks and other gear to move items around
  • Go up and down stairs, when applicable
  • Work at a height of up to 30 feet or more and on mezzanine level, when applicable

Disclaimer: All descriptions have been reviewed to ensure that only essential functions and basic duties have been included. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is possible that requirements may be modified to reasonably accommodate disabled individuals. However, no accommodations will be made which may pose serious health or safety risks to the employee or others, or which impose undue hardships on the organization.
TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS
Travel is estimated at 50%; weekends or after-hours work may be required.
The outlined job description is to serve, at a minimum, as a guideline. Additional responsibilities and duties may be required.

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