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Stage Lighting Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Vista, CA

Stage Technician

Vista, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $26.30/hr

Assists incoming groups with the execution of theatrical lighting - including hanging, plugging ... Painting of stage and scenic elements. * Rigging of drops and flying elements. * Maintenance of ...

Livenation

Lighting Engineer - Varsity

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

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 ...

University of Rochester

Stage Hand- Opera

Rochester, NY

$17.50 - $22.79/hr

Prepares, sets up, tears down, adjusts, repairs, and maintains stage and theatre equipment, including orchestra instruments, seating, stage lighting, audio and visual equipment, scenery, and any ...

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How much do stage lighting jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for stage lighting in the United States is $19.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $22.36 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.
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Stage Lighting jobs near you
Infographic showing various Stage Lighting job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,374 per year, or $19.9 per hour.
Stage Hand House of Blues New Orleans

Stage Hand House of Blues New Orleans

Livenation

New Orleans, LA

$16.75 - $22.25/hr

Part-time

Posted 21 days ago

Live Nation rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 141 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 50 rated entertainment

Job description

Job Summary:

Who are we?
Live Nation Entertainment is the world's leading live entertainment company comprised of global market leaders: Ticketmaster, Live Nation Concerts, Live Nation Media & Sponsorship and Artist Nation Management. Ticketmaster is the global event ticketing leader with nearly 455 million tickets sold, over 145,000 events ticketed and more than 12,000 clients in 21 countries. Live Nation Concerts has become the single largest provider of live entertainment in the world producing nearly 23,000 shows annually for over 2,700 artists in 33 countries. Artist Nation Management is one of the world's leading artist management companies, representing approximately 280 artists. These businesses power Live Nation Media & Sponsorship to deliver music marketing programs across 750 brands enabling advertisers to tap into the 59 million fans Live Nation Entertainment delivers annually through its live event and digital platforms. For additional information, visit www.livenationentertainment.com.

HOB Entertainment, a division of Live Nation Entertainment, offers exceptional club venues nationwide. House of Blues venues provide several genres of live music from Rock, Hip Hop, Country, Rock en Espanol, Blues, Jazz, Reggae and Pop. House of Blues venues are also known for their southern-style cuisine, juke-joint inspired atmosphere and the World Famous Gospel Brunch.

Who are you?
Passionate and motivated. Driven, with an entrepreneurial spirit. Resourceful, innovative, forward thinking and committed. At Live Nation Entertainment, our people embrace these qualities, so if this sounds like you then please read on!

The Role:
Responsible for ensuring the success of show and event productions by performing the technical aspects related to the show(s) production.

Essential Functions:

  • Performs the Load-in & out of band equipment and rental equipment
  • Responsible for securing required passes and tickets and prepares guest lists under the direction of the stage Manager
  • Cabling; assist audio & lighting crew as directed
  • Band Set changes
  • Ensure that members of the Band(s) have required items needed to perform the show(s).
  • Responsible for communicating the details of the evening's event to production crew
  • Responsible for hanging show banners, updating marquees and other signage in the venue Responsible for coordinating the food trays for the band in the Music Hall
  • Assist lighting & Audio crew as directed by Stage Manager or PM; Spotlight operation if required
  • Maintenance and Repair of Sound, Light and Stage Equipment
  • May assist the Stage Manager with show passes
  • Maintain and secure House Backline, and supplies
  • Maintain curtains, drapes, risers and other staging items
  • Assist audio crew with stands, microphones, cables, etc.
  • Assist lighting crew with fixtures, lambs, gels, cabling, etc.
  • Operate and care for stage areas in a safe, clean manner
  • Assist with any Special Events operations
  • Ensure stage trash is taken out; stage swept or set up for next show when possible.

Job Requirements:
Minimum Requirements:

  • 3 years minimum Tour and Stage Production experience.
  • 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 interpersonal communication and organizational skills.
  • High School Diploma

Preferred:

  • College Degree

Physical Demands/Working Environment:

  • Must be able to lift up to 75lbs
  • Work in an environment with moderate to loud noise level

If the above description sounds like you and fits your background, apply online at http://www.livenation.com/careers/index.html to join the Live Nation Entertainment team today!

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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