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Theatre Lighting Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ALLEY THEATRE

Overhire Lighting Technician

Houston, TX · On-site

$18/hr

Unique among regional theatres, the Alley is committed to maintaining a Resident Acting Company and ... Overhire Lighting Technicians will service both Alley theatre spaces for load-ins, changeovers ...

ALLEY THEATRE

Overhire Lighting Technician

Houston, TX

$18/hr

Unique among regional theatres, the Alley is committed to maintaining a Resident Acting Company and ... Overhire Lighting Technicians will service both Alley theatre spaces for load-ins, changeovers ...

Miss Porter's School

Theater Tech

Farmington, CT · On-site

Set up, operate and break down sound and lighting equipment for school events (speakers, performances, theater production, events and meetings) * Provide live sound support, lighting control and ...

Miss Porter's School

Theater Tech

Farmington, CT · On-site

Set up, operate and break down sound and lighting equipment for school events (speakers, performances, theater production, events and meetings) * Provide live sound support, lighting control and ...

Got Light

Lighting Technician

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Installation and operation of uplighting, theatrical fixtures, LED lights, dimming/control. * Basic knowledge of installing lighting trees, ground based lights, bistro lights. * Comfortable working ...

Got Light

Lighting Technician

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Installation and operation of uplighting, theatrical fixtures, LED lights, dimming/control. * Basic knowledge of installing lighting trees, ground based lights, bistro lights. * Comfortable working ...

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How much do theatre lighting jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for theatre lighting in the United States is $21.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Theatre Lighting Technician, you need a solid understanding of lighting design principles, electrical systems, and often a relevant technical qualification or degree. Familiarity with lighting consoles, rigging equipment, and industry-standard software like ETC Eos or GrandMA is typically required. Attention to detail, creativity, and strong teamwork skills help technicians adapt to complex productions and collaborate effectively with directors and crew. These skills and qualities ensure visually compelling, safe, and technically flawless lighting for successful theatrical performances.

What is the difference between Theatre Lighting vs Stage Lighting Technician?

AspectTheatre LightingStage Lighting Technician
CredentialsLighting design certifications, technical trainingTechnical certifications, electrical knowledge
Work EnvironmentTheatre productions, live performancesConcerts, theater, events
Employer & IndustryTheatre companies, production housesEvent companies, touring productions
Search & ComparisonOften compared for lighting design vs technical setup

While both Theatre Lighting and Stage Lighting Technicians work with lighting setups, Theatre Lighting focuses on designing and creating the overall lighting concept for performances, often involving artistic and creative decisions. Stage Lighting Technicians primarily handle the technical execution, setup, and operation of lighting equipment during live events. Understanding these roles helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the entertainment industry.

What are theatre lighting technicians?

Theatre lighting technicians are professionals responsible for designing, setting up, operating, and maintaining lighting systems for live performances and events. Their work involves creating lighting effects that enhance the mood, visibility, and overall atmosphere on stage. They collaborate closely with directors, set designers, and other technical staff to ensure the lighting complements the production's artistic vision. Lighting technicians also troubleshoot equipment and handle safety protocols during performances.

What are some common challenges theatre lighting professionals face during live performances?

Theatre lighting professionals often encounter challenges such as adapting quickly to unexpected technical issues, last-minute script or blocking changes, and coordinating closely with other departments like sound, set design, and stage management. Ensuring precise timing and seamless cue execution under pressure is crucial, as even minor errors can disrupt the audience’s experience. Additionally, maintaining and troubleshooting lighting equipment during rehearsals and shows requires strong technical skills and the ability to stay calm and solution-oriented in a fast-paced environment.
More about Theatre Lighting jobs
What cities are hiring for Theatre Lighting jobs? Cities with the most Theatre Lighting job openings:
What states have the most Theatre Lighting jobs? States with the most job openings for Theatre Lighting jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Theatre Lighting jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Theatre Lighting jobs are:
Theatre Lighting jobs near you
Infographic showing various Theatre Lighting job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% 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 $44,268 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

Overhire Lighting Technician

ALLEY THEATRE

Houston, TX • On-site

$18/hr

Other

Retirement

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

OVERVIEW
Founded in 1947 by Nina Vance, the Alley Theatre is a pioneer of regional theatre, and one of the leading nonprofit theatre companies in the United States. The Alley has been awarded the prestigious Regional Theatre Tony Award® and the Texas Medal of Arts Award. The Alley has transferred productions to Broadway, Off-Broadway, major European Festivals, and to 40 American cities. Unique among regional theatres, the Alley is committed to maintaining a Resident Acting Company and providing them with work year-round. Nationally recognized directors, actors, playwrights, and designers from across the country have regularly joined the Resident Acting Company.
Rob Melrose, Artistic Director at the Alley, took over as artistic leader of the organization in 2019. His vision for the future of the Alley is both thrilling and ambitious. His strategic goals include upholding the Alley's artistic excellence, keeping longtime Alley Theatre devotees eager to return each season, and creating productions and cultivating new audiences.
Rob Melrose and Incoming Managing Director Jennifer Bielstein along with Alley's leadership team are committed to fostering an environment where everyone is encouraged to bring their authentic selves.
JOB STATEMENT
Overhire Lighting Technicians may be hired for Load-in work on an as-needed basis or on a show specific contract to serve as Lightboard Programmer, Lightboard Operator, Followspot Operator, or Deck Electrician. When working on Load-ins, Overhire Lighting Technicians are responsible for the safe installation of lighting equipment and execution of the lighting design under the guidance of the Electrics Supervisor and Alley Theatre Lighting Team. Overhire Lighting Technicians will service both Alley theatre spaces for load-ins, changeovers, focus calls, strikes, notes calls and maintenance calls. Show-specific Overhire Lighting Technicians will be expected to work all assigned technical, dress and brush-up rehearsals, notes sessions and performances. Specific duties could include but would not be limited to Console Programming, Console Operation, Daily Show Maintenance, and/or Followspot Operation.
JOB DUTIES
  • Performing as an electrician for load-ins, changeovers, focus calls, strikes, notes calls and maintenance calls.
  • Participating in the preparation of shows. Includes preparing required equipment, organization of color, templates, and other consumables as well as the wiring of practicals and effects.
  • Participating in the maintenance of lighting department equipment and facilities as assigned: including (but not limited to) theatrical lighting instrumentation, practical electrical properties, backstage running lights, projection equipment, chemical and dry ice foggers, effects devices, cue lights and tech tables.
  • Programming and running of the lighting console for all technical, dress and brush-up rehearsals, note sessions and performances as assigned by the Lighting Director.
  • Involvement as a show electrician (Followspot Operator, Deck Electrician, or Video Technician) as productions require.
  • Attending technical rehearsals and run-throughs as assigned by the Lighting Director.
  • Performing daily dimmer/focus checks to maintain the lighting design during the run of the show- correcting any focus problems, changing lamps or burned gel as needed and referring any other problems to the Lighting Director, Associate Lighting Director, and/or Master Electrician.
  • Maintaining cleanliness and promoting a safe working environment in all Lighting areas in the theatre: Lighting Office, control booths, dimmer rooms, grids, catwalks, work areas, and storage spaces.
  • Understanding of (or a commitment to learning about) historical and institutional racism in the American theatre.
  • Additional related duties as assigned by Lighting Director or other Lighting Staff.

In addition to the duties listed above, the Alley Theatre expects the following of each employee: adheres to theatre's policies and procedures; works in a safe manner; performs duties as workload necessitates; maintains a positive and respectful attitude; communicates regularly with supervisor about department issues; demonstrates efficient time management and prioritizes workload; demonstrates regular and consistent attendance and punctuality; meets department productivity standards; participates in Alley Theatre events as needed or required; and completes other duties as assigned.
REQUIREMENTS (SKILLS and KNOWLEDGE)
  • Familiarity and working knowledge of current lighting instruments and equipment.
  • Ability to read and understand common drawings and paperwork used in theatrical lighting installations.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, energized and quickly changing environment.
  • Excellent organizational, interpersonal skills with a proven ability to work independently and as a team player.
  • Understanding of historical and institutional racism in the American theatre, or a commitment to learning, and to be a part of Alley Theatre's efforts to be an anti-racist organization.
  • To be considered for "Lightboard Programmer," applicants must have skill programming complex sequences with multi-parameter fixtures on ETC EOS Family Consoles.
  • To be considered for "Lightboard Operator," applicants must have a general understanding of the functions of ETC EOS Family Consoles and be able to independently troubleshoot and correct common theatrical lighting problems in an efficient manner.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/WORKING CONDITIONS
  • Prolonged periods of standing, ladder work and work on MEWPs (Personnel Lifts).
  • Ability to work at heights of up to 70 feet, in cramped spaces and otherwise limiting job sites.
  • Ability to regularly move and lift 30-50 lbs.
  • Typical hours are during the day, but the position requires the flexibility to be available for weekend, holidays, and evening work hours as needed.

BENEFITS & PERKS
  • 401(k) with matching, FSA, HRA (Alley paid deductible)
  • Free and discounted tickets to Alley Theatre performances

Alley Theatre is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application procedures. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at HRdept@alleytheatre.org.
The Alley Theatre is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable local, state, or federal law. We encourage people of all backgrounds to apply.

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