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Stage Lighting Jobs in Springfield, MO (NOW HIRING)

Stage Lighting information

See Springfield, MO salary details

$9

$17

$24

How much do stage lighting jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for stage lighting in Springfield, MO is $17.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.00 and $19.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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.

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 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 is a stage lighting technician?

A stage lighting technician is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining lighting equipment for theatrical, concert, or event productions. They work with lighting consoles, fixtures, and design to create the desired visual effects and ensure proper illumination. The role often requires technical skills, knowledge of electrical safety, and sometimes certification or training in lighting technology.

What are popular job titles related to Stage Lighting jobs in Springfield, MO?

For Stage Lighting jobs in Springfield, MO, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Stage Lighting jobs in Springfield, MO look for?

The top searched job categories for Stage Lighting jobs in Springfield, MO are:

Infographic showing various Stage Lighting job openings in Springfield, MO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,910 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

Backstage Worker - HHPA

Missouri State University

Springfield, MO • On-site

$15/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Missouri State University rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

532nd of 628 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Posting Details
Posting Details
Position Title
Backstage Worker - HHPA
Student Status
Work Study Optional -You are not required to be a Federal Work Study Recipient to hold this position.
Work Location
Springfield Campus
Department
Juanita K Hammons Hall
Hiring Range
$15
Sponsorship Information
Applicants must be currently authorized to work for ANY employer in the United States on a full-time basis. This position is not eligible for work visa sponsorship.
Department/Employer Operating Hours
Evenings and Weekends
How many hours per week are required?
10-20
Description of Primary Duties
Assist with the setup, teardown, and operation of audio, video, lighting, and various other technical aspects used to create different shows that are presented at the hall. Perform basic cleaning and maintenance tasks to ensure the stage is performance ready. All other assigned duties to assist with the hall's daily operations.
Required Qualifications
Ability to lift 50lbs.
Required Certifications
Additional Qualifications
Special Instructions to Applicants
Contact Information
Jacobcurless@missouristate.edu
Disclaimer
Disclaimer for off campus positions only.
#STU
Equal Opportunity Statement
Non-Discrimination Statement
Missouri State University is a community of people with respect for diversity. The University emphasizes the dignity and equality common to all persons and adheres to a strict non-discrimination policy regarding the treatment of individual faculty, staff, and students. In accord with federal law and applicable Missouri statutes, the University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin (including ancestry, or any other subcategory of national origin recognized by applicable law), religion, sex (including marital status, family status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other subcategory of sex recognized by applicable law), age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable law in employment or in any program or activity offered or sponsored by the University. Sex discrimination encompasses sexual harassment, which includes sexual violence, and is strictly prohibited by Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972.
This policy shall not be interpreted in a manner as to violate the legal rights of religious organizations or of military organizations associated with the Armed Forces of the United States of America.
The University maintains a grievance procedure incorporating due process available to any person who believes he or she has been discriminated against. Missouri State University is an Equal Opportunity employer. Inquiries concerning the complaint/grievance procedure related to discrimination on the basis of a protected class, including sexual harassment and sexual assault, or compliance with federal and state laws and guidelines, should be addressed to the Director, Office for Institutional Compliance, Carrington Hall 205, 901 S. National Ave., Springfield, Missouri 65897, Compliance@MissouriState.edu, 417-836-4252.
Posting Detail
Open Date
08/01/2026
Close Date
11/01/2026
Posting Number
20260098STU

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