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Stage Lighting Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Stage Technician

Vista, CA

$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 ...

Stage Hand-3

Rochester, NY · On-site

$17 - $22.10/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 ...

Stage Hand- Opera

Rochester, NY · On-site

$17 - $22.10/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 ...

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 ...

Stage Hand- Opera

Rochester, NY · On-site

$17 - $22.10/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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Stage Lighting information

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How much do stage lighting jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 23, 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.

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 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 cities are hiring for Stage Lighting jobs? Cities with the most Stage Lighting job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Stage Lighting jobs? The most popular types of Stage Lighting jobs are:
What states have the most Stage Lighting jobs? States with the most job openings for Stage Lighting jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Stage Lighting jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Stage Lighting jobs are:
Infographic showing various Stage Lighting job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,374 per year, or $19.9 per hour.
Stage Technician

$16.90 - $26.30/hr

Temporary

PTO

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Salary: $16.90 - $26.30 Hourly
Location : Moonlight Amphitheater - 1250 Vale Terrace Dr, Vista, CA 92084, CA
Job Type: Seasonal
Job Number: 26-09-S
Department: RCS Moonlight/Avo
Opening Date: 01/26/2026
Closing Date: 8/18/2026 5:00 PM Pacific
Bargaining Unit: IATSE
Position
Under the direction of the Technical Director, is responsible for the overall operation of audio, stage lighting, rigging, carpentry, show running, facility maintenance and rental supervision, for performances, special events, and concerts at the Moonlight Amphitheatre and Avo Playhouse.
Examples of Essential Functions
Stage Technician $16.90 - 26.30/hr
  • Assists incoming groups with the execution of theatrical lighting - including hanging, plugging, focusing and programming of intelligent and conventional lighting instruments.
  • Assists with the assembly, operation, and tear down of audio and video equipment.
  • Work in teams for the load in, assembly, and striking of sets, scenery décor., costume racks, shipping cases, and other various materials.
  • Assists in unloading scenic elements, props, costumes and other rental items from trucks and organize for installation. At strike, organize elements and reload.
  • Assist in the pre-rig of elements (drops and flying scenery) in preparation for production.
  • Assist in the assembly and construction of scenic elements.
  • Painting of stage and scenic elements.
  • Rigging of drops and flying elements.
  • Maintenance of scenic elements and flying pieces.
  • Assists in organization and best utilization of theater equipment.
  • Performs janitorial duties as needed and provides overall maintenance of facility.
  • Assists in supervising the facility during rentals.

*NOTE: Position will be filled at the entry pay level depending on the selected candidate's education, experience and other job-related qualifications.
Minimum Qualifications
Any combination of training and experience which demonstrates possession of the knowledge and abilities stated above and the ability to perform the duties of the position is qualifying.
EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE:
Must have graduated from, or be currently enrolled in, an educational institution, working towards obtaining a high school diploma, G.E.D., or equivalent and two (2) years of applicable theater experience. College level coursework in a related field is preferred.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
Must have knowledge of audio and lighting techniques and equipment, and skill in their use; rigging and set construction techniques and hardware and skill in their use; safety rules and practices and skilled operational ability with tools needed for this discipline; ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with user groups, producers, directors and technical personnel. Ability to work in potentially adverse conditions; heights up to 40', loud noise, large crowds, darkness and confined spaces.
Other Information
PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND OTHER WORKING CONDITIONS:
Daily lift, push, pull and carry objects weighing up to 60 pounds. Must be able to do work requiring physical strength, dexterity and endurance. Requires the mobility to stand, stoop, reach, and bend.
Candidates must be able to work in potentially adverse conditions which may include heights, loud noise, large crowds, darkness and confined spaces.
Must be able to work a flexible schedule including weekends, evenings, and holidays, dependent on season program needs. Must be available from April until September, as scheduled, with no vacation leave. Persons hired must wear the standard required apparel as prescribed by the Recreation and Community Services Department.
Moonlight Stage Productions is a program of the City of Vista's Recreation and Community Services Department - Cultural Arts Division. All those hired will become temporary, part-time employees of the City of Vista.
SELECTION PROCESS:All properly completed applications will be reviewed, and the most qualified candidates will be invited to continue in the selection process. A pre-employment drug test and live scan fingerprint (background check), paid by the city, will be required.
WORKERS' COMPENSATION
The City provides Workers' Compensation Insurance to all employees.
RETIREMENT CONTRIBUTION
Employee is required to contribute 7.5% of gross earnings to the MissionSquare Retirement Plan, which is offered in lieu of Social Security, OR Current CalPERS members will be required to contribute the full employee contribution of 8%.
*NOTE: The provisions of this announcement do not constitute an expressed or implied contract, and any provisions contained in the announcement may be modified or revoked without notice.
01
ATTENTION APPLICANTS: Copying and pasting duplicate answers and stating "See resume" and/or "see previous answer" are not acceptable to the questions below. By completing this supplemental questionnaire, you are attesting that the information you have provided is accurate and understand that the statements made in this supplemental questionnaire will be considered part of and subject to the terms of my employment application for this position. Please acknowledge your understanding by selecting "Yes".
  • Yes
  • No

02
Which best describes your level of education?
  • High School
  • Some College
  • Associate's Degree
  • Bachelor's Degree
  • Master's Degree

03
Do you have at least two years of theater experience?
  • Yes
  • No

04
What is your Summer availability? Do you have any planned vacations? If so, when?
05
Why are you interested in working at the Moonlight Amphitheatre?
Required Question