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Stage Lighting Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Mills James Inc

Lighting Specialist

Hilliard, OH · On-site

Collaborate with the Video Specialist to balance stage lighting for live and remote audiences. * Supervise riggers and stagehands during equipment installation. * Provide documentation for ...

Seminolehardrock

$15.25 - $20.25/hr

Setup and teardown of professional audio, video, lighting, and staging equipment, with additional ... stage crew and personnel. Lifting and physical work are required. * Must possess a basic ...

AT Hospitality

Stage Hand

Cincinnati, OH

$20 - $22/hr

Production Support * Assist with the setup and tear-down of stages, risers, drape, lighting, audio, video, and production equipment. * Assist with stage set up, room flips and venue conversions for ...

DanceBUG Inc.

Live Action Photographer

Columbus, OH · On-site

$150 - $400/day

Photograph live dance performances in low-light and stage lighting conditions * Adjust exposure, ISO, and white balance on the fly for optimal results * Manage and back up images using DanceBUG ...

DanceBUG Inc.

Live Action Photographer

Columbus, OH · On-site

Photograph live dance performances in low-light and stage lighting conditions * Adjust exposure, ISO, and white balance on the fly for optimal results * Manage and back up images using DanceBUG ...

Crossroads Church

Technical Artist

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$121K - $145K/yr

Familiarity with a broadcast video environment including digital signal processing and stage lighting systems. * Any experience with interactive/infrared tracking systems (leapmotion, kinect, etc ...

Rockforce

Stagehand - RockForce - Columbus, OH

Columbus, OH · On-site

$17 - $22.50/hr

Basic knowledge of stage plots, lighting diagrams, and production schedules. * OSHA 10 or OSHA 30. Key Competencies * Strong communication, organizational, and multitasking skills. * Ability to work ...

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Stage Lighting information

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$10

$18

$26

How much do stage lighting jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for stage lighting in Ohio is $18.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $21.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by stage lighting technicians during live performances?

Stage lighting technicians often face challenges such as last-minute changes to lighting cues, adapting to unexpected technical issues, and working under tight time constraints during rehearsals and shows. Collaboration with directors, performers, and other technical crew members is crucial to ensure lighting synchronizes seamlessly with the production. Additionally, technicians must balance creativity with safety, ensuring all equipment is set up correctly and meets safety standards while still achieving the desired visual effects.

What is stage lighting?

Stage lighting refers to the craft and technology of lighting up a stage for theater, concerts, dance, and other performances. It involves the use of different lighting instruments and techniques to highlight actors, set the mood, and enhance the overall visual experience for the audience. Stage lighting designers work closely with directors and other production staff to achieve the desired look and feel. Proper stage lighting can influence the atmosphere, focus attention, and help tell the story.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Stage Lighting Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Stage Lighting Technician, you need a solid understanding of lighting design principles, electrical systems, and hands-on experience with lighting equipment, often supported by technical training or certification. Familiarity with lighting consoles (such as ETC or GrandMA), DMX control systems, and rigging safety protocols is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork help technicians adapt to live performance demands and collaborate with directors and crew. These skills ensure safe, reliable, and visually impactful lighting that enhances the overall production quality.

How much do lighting people get paid?

Lighting technicians and specialists in stage lighting typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from $30,000 to $70,000 depending on experience, location, and the complexity of productions. Entry-level positions may pay less, while experienced professionals working on large events or with advanced skills can earn higher wages.

What is the difference between Stage Lighting vs Lighting Technician?

AspectStage LightingLighting Technician
CredentialsLighting design certifications, technical trainingTechnical training, certifications often similar
Work EnvironmentPerformances, theaters, concertsEvent setups, theaters, live shows
Job FocusDesign and programming lighting for productionsInstalling, operating, maintaining lighting equipment
Industry UsageCreative design, production planningTechnical execution, equipment management

Stage Lighting involves designing and programming lighting setups to enhance performances, focusing on creative aspects. Lighting Technicians handle the installation, operation, and maintenance of lighting equipment during events. While both roles require technical skills and certifications, Stage Lighting emphasizes design and programming, whereas Lighting Technicians focus on technical execution and support.

What are the positions of stage lighting called?

Stage lighting positions are typically called lighting designer, lighting technician, and lighting operator. These roles involve planning, setting up, and operating lighting equipment to achieve the desired visual effects for a production. Understanding the different positions helps ensure proper coordination and execution of the lighting design.

How to get into theatre lighting?

To pursue a career in theatre lighting, gain experience through internships or entry-level positions in production or stage crews, and develop skills in operating lighting consoles and understanding lighting design. Formal education in theater, stagecraft, or technical theater can be beneficial, along with familiarity with lighting equipment and safety protocols.

What Are Stage Lighting Jobs?

Stage lighting jobs involve the installation and rigging of lighting equipment for performances. In addition to setting up lights, stage lighting technicians also handle lighting operations during live theater shows and other stage productions. In this career, you work during both pre-production and performances. You arrange and connect lighting for the show as designers build the set. Your duties include testing the lights after setup and during rehearsals. You also operate and troubleshoot the lights during the show, observing the performance and using a console to control the lighting. Some lighting technicians have assistants who handle specific responsibilities during setup and performances.

How much do lighting techs get paid?

Lighting technicians typically earn an average hourly wage ranging from $15 to $30, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the production. Entry-level techs may start at lower rates, while experienced professionals working on large events or with specialized equipment can earn higher wages, often supplemented by overtime and per diems.
More about Stage Lighting jobs
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What cities in Ohio are hiring for Stage Lighting jobs? Cities in Ohio with the most Stage Lighting job openings:
Stage Lighting jobs near you
Lighting Specialist

Lighting Specialist

Mills James Inc

Hilliard, OH • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Mills James rating

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

61st of 67 rated media

Job description

About the Role

Mills James has an immediate opportunity for an experienced Lighting Specialist to join our production team. This hands-on role involves preparing lighting designs and equipment for safe and timely installation and operation at live events. The Lighting Specialist will serve as L1, L2, or Team Lead onsite, directing crews of staff, freelancers, and vendors to implement creative visions with precision.

You will maintain and prepare lighting equipment, collaborate with production leaders, and bring a true passion for the lighting design world to every project.

Key Responsibilities
  • Attend preconference meetings with Production Manager or Producer.
  • Assist Resource Coordinator in resolving conflicts with lighting resources and recommend rental solutions when needed.
  • Support Warehouse Manager with equipment logistics (pulling, scanning, loading/unloading, and checkin).
  • Direct the lighting portion of live events, including: oPlacement of lighting specials for key moments.
  • Cueing lighting effects. oDirecting follow spot operators.
  • Collaborate with the Video Specialist to balance stage lighting for live and remote audiences.
  • Supervise riggers and stagehands during equipment installation.
  • Provide documentation for installation, patching, focus, programming, and operation of lighting equipment.
  • Organize, manage, and maintain lighting equipment and technology.
  • Assist in developing live lighting solutions to meet client needs.
  • Manage inventories of expendables and replacement parts.
  • Evaluate freelancers for lightingrelated functions.
    • Requirements
  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience (minimum 4 years related experience).
  • Proficiency in live lighting technologies, including: oLighting system and rigging design.
  • Conventional and moving light fixtures. oDimming systems.
  • Gobo creation/selection. oLighting color theory.
  • Analog and digital console programming. oFollow spot operation.
  • Advanced troubleshooting and problemsolving skills.
  • Ability to learn and use Mills James Media Pulse facilities management software.
  • Valid driver’s license and medical card required (CDL may be required).
  • Ability to obtain a U.S. Passport.
  • Willingness to travel up to 60% and work flexible hours.
    • BenefitsMills James offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance.
  • 401(k) and Roth 401(k) plans with company match.
  • Paid time off (PTO) and paid holidays.
  • Opportunities for career growth and professional development.
    • Equal Opportunity Employer

    Mills James, Inc. is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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

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