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Stage Lighting Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Stagehand Allianz Amphitheater

Richmond, VA

$17.25 - $23/hr

Experience in stage lighting, pro audio systems and basic video systems * Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously * Proficiency with all Microsoft applications * Must possess superior ...

Production Staff - The Norva

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$17.68 - $23.92/hr

Venue maintenance including lighting, stage and equipment. * Responsible for set up and break down of equipment on stage. Education Qualifications * High School Diploma or its equivalency (BA/BS ...

Production Staff - The Norva

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$17.68 - $23.92/hr

Venue maintenance including lighting, stage and equipment. * Responsible for set up and break down of equipment on stage. Education Qualifications * High School Diploma or its equivalency (BA/BS ...

Production Staff - The Norva

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$17.68 - $23.92/hr

Venue maintenance including lighting, stage and equipment. * Responsible for set up and break down of equipment on stage. Education Qualifications * High School Diploma or its equivalency (BA/BS ...

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Stage Lighting information

See Virginia salary details

$10

$19

$27

How much do stage lighting jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for stage lighting in Virginia is $19.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.68 and $22.16 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Stage Lighting jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Stage Lighting jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Stage Lighting jobs in Virginia? For Stage Lighting jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Stage Lighting jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Stage Lighting job openings:
Infographic showing various Stage Lighting job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,019 per year, or $19.7 per hour.
Union Stagehand (VB Amphitheater)

Union Stagehand (VB Amphitheater)

Live Nation Entertainment, Inc.

Virginia Beach, VA • On-site

$16.50 - $22/hr

Part-time

Posted 10 days ago


Live Nation rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 142 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

12th of 51 rated entertainment


Job description

Job Summary:
Who Are We?
Live Nation Entertainment is the world's leading live entertainment and eCommerce company, comprised of four market leaders: Ticketmaster, Live Nation Concerts, Front Line Management Group and Live Nation Network.
As the largest producer of live music concerts, Live Nation Concerts operates over 45 venues across the United States. For additional information, visit http://www.livenationentertainment.com/.
Who Are You?
Employees have a leading role in the service experience our guests have. The extent to which we recognize our employees for service well done, is the extent to which they will care not only for the guests, but for each other.
That's why SAFETY for employees and guests is our first priority. We show CARE around every corner and look to create ENCORE moments of service excellence for everyone. And our commitment to EFFICIENCY, is our way of staying well-organized. So join us! We need these kinds of skills and talents as we Create Once in a Lifetime Experiences for our Fans.
The Role:
Responsible for ensuring the success of show and event productions by performing the technical aspects related to the show(s) production.
Job Functions:
  • Performs the Load-in, changeover/show-call and load-out of band and rental equipment
  • Uses proper safety protocols with all related aspects to concert production including rigging and loading
  • Assist audio, lighting and video crew members with placements, builds and cabling
  • Responsible for hanging show backdrops, building stage risers, barricade placement
  • Perform routine maintenance on stage, audio, lighting, barricade and rigging equipment as needed
  • Maintain curtains, drapes, risers and other staging items
  • Assist audio crew with stands, microphones, cables, etc.
  • Assist lighting crew with fixtures, lambs, cabling, ladders, etc.
  • Assist Special Effects crew with C02 tanks, cryo jets, confetti cannons, etc.
  • Assist with any Special Events operations
  • Setup and operate spotlights if necessary
  • Report for Show Call duties dressed in Stage Blacks attire

Qualifications:
  • 2 years minimum tour and/or stage production experience
  • Experience in stage lighting, pro audio systems and basic video systems
  • Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously
  • Must possess superior interpersonal communication and organizational skills
  • High School Diploma

Physical Demands/Working Environment:
  • Must be able to lift up to 75lbs
  • Work in an environment with moderate to loud noise level
  • Be able to perform job duties in various weather situations

Applicants for employment in the U.S. must possess work authorization which does not require sponsorship by the employer for a visa.
Equal Employment Opportunity
Live Nation Entertainment strongly supports equal employment opportunity for all applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, pregnancy, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, marital status, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by state or federal law.
Hiring Practices
The preceding job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.
Live Nation Entertainment recruitment policies are designed to place the most highly qualified persons available in a timely and efficient manner. Live Nation Entertainment may pursue all avenues available, including promotion from within, employee referrals, outside advertising, employment agencies, Internet recruiting, job fairs, college recruiting and search firms.
Live Nation Entertainment will never request payment, or equipment purchases as part of the hiring process. Recruiters will only contact candidates from official Live Nation or affiliated brand email domains.

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