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Theatre Lighting Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lighting Designer I

Seattle, WA · On-site

$61K - $80K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Design, or Theatrical Lighting • Time management and organization • Open and receptive to constructive critique • Clear graphic and oral communication of design • Ability to work ...

Overhire

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$30/hr

Design Lighting for Events (Dance, Plays, Musicals, ect.) * Assist in Lighting Hangs and Focus Calls Electricians * Act as run crew for shows in the Theater and events in the Church. * Assist in ...

This is not a traditional theatrical or architectural lighting design position. Success in this role requires balancing creativity, guest experience, technology integration, and real-world project ...

Project / Senior Theatre Consultant

Dallas, TX · On-site

$80K - $125K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Schuler Shook is an internationally recognized theatre planning, lighting design, and audio video design firm with projects in the United States and around the world. You will work with our team of ...

Showing results 41-60

Theatre Lighting Design information

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$49K

$72.8K

$94K

How much do theatre lighting design jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for theatre lighting design in the United States is $72,767.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,000.00 and $80,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is theatre lighting design?

Theatre lighting design is the art and practice of creating lighting plans and effects for live stage productions. It involves selecting and arranging lighting equipment, choosing colors, and programming cues to enhance the mood, visibility, and storytelling of a performance. Lighting designers work closely with directors, set designers, and other production staff to support the show's vision and guide the audience's attention. The role requires both technical expertise and creative problem-solving.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a theatre lighting designer?

To thrive as a Theatre Lighting Designer, you need a deep understanding of lighting principles, stagecraft, and design, often supported by a relevant degree or experience in theatrical production. Proficiency with industry-standard lighting consoles (such as ETC or GrandMA), CAD software, and lighting visualization tools is crucial. Creativity, strong communication, and the ability to collaborate closely with directors and production teams are standout soft skills in this field. These skills and qualities ensure effective storytelling, technical precision, and seamless integration of lighting design in live performances.

What are some common challenges faced by theatre lighting designers during a production process?

Theatre lighting designers often navigate challenges such as adapting their creative vision to fit technical limitations, working within tight budgets, and coordinating with other departments like set and costume design to ensure cohesive stage visuals. They must also be adept at troubleshooting unexpected issues during rehearsals and performances, such as equipment malfunctions or last-minute script changes. Collaboration and flexibility are key, as lighting designers frequently adjust their plans to support directors’ evolving concepts and the needs of live performers.

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

AspectTheatre Lighting DesignStage Lighting Technician
CredentialsOften requires a degree in theatre, lighting design, or related fieldTypically has technical training or certification in lighting operation
Work EnvironmentDesigns lighting plans, collaborates with directors and designersExecutes lighting cues, operates lighting equipment during performances
Industry UsageUsed in planning and creating lighting concepts for productionsInvolved in the technical implementation and operation of lighting

While Theatre Lighting Designers create the overall lighting concept and plan for a production, Stage Lighting Technicians focus on executing those designs during performances. Both roles are essential, but they differ in scope and responsibilities within the lighting process.

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What cities are hiring for Theatre Lighting Design jobs?

Cities with the most Theatre Lighting Design job openings:

What states have the most Theatre Lighting Design jobs?

States with the most job openings for Theatre Lighting Design jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Theatre Lighting Design jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Theatre Lighting Design jobs are:

Infographic showing various Theatre Lighting Design job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,767 per year, or $35 per hour.

Entertainment Engineer

Musco Sports Lighting

Oskaloosa, IA • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Entertainment Engineer
The Musco Entertainment Engineering Team has an opening for a Entertainment Engineer in Oskaloosa, IA. If your experience aligns with the qualifications outlined below, we look forward to hearing from you!
Essential Criteria:
  • 2 or 4 year degree in Computer Science, Programming, Lighting Design, Theater Lighting, or related field. Practical experience of 3-5 years a plus.
  • General proficiency in computer skills
  • Hands-on experience in lighting design, lighting programming, and operation, with experience as a lighting technician, lighting programmer, console operator or similar role.
  • Familiarity with Audio Visual Lighting (AVL) networking
  • Knowledge of DMX, sACN, Artnet and other lighting protocols
  • Experience with lighting consoles and ETC hardware/software, such as GrandMA, Hog, Eos, and Mosaic Designer would be a plus.
  • Experience with advanced lighting and design tools such as, VectorWorks, WYSIWYG, Capture, Unreal Engine or equivalent Pre-Visualization (Pre-Vis) software.
  • Familiarity with web programming, networking, and scripting is an advantage and enhances system customization capabilities is a plus
  • Strong organizational skills, with a keen attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, capable of conveying complex technical concepts to diverse audiences.
  • Proven ability to collaborate effectively with internal teams and external stakeholders, ensuring project objectives are met and customer satisfaction is achieved.
  • Demonstrated ability to work well under pressure in dynamic environments, maintaining composure and professionalism on jobsites.
  • Strong interpersonal skills, with a capacity to build positive relationships and communicate effectively in a collaborative setting.

Roles and Responsibilities:
  • Engage directly with clients to understand their creative and technical vision. Translate these requirements into tailored lighting solutions.
  • Oversee all lighting programming and engineering aspects of entertainment lighting systems, including the development and implementation of sophisticated control interfaces, lighting effects, and user interfaces.
  • Provide lighting tech style technical support for the servicing and maintenance of theatrical lighting fixtures, lasers, and other specialized entertainment technologies. Ensure all equipment is calibrated, tested, and functioning at peak performance levels for live events. Troubleshoot complex technical issues and resolve discrepancies to maintain the integrity and functionality of all installed systems.
  • Utilize 3D modeling and pre-visualization software to create precise lighting simulations. Develop pre-vis renderings that offer clients a clear understanding of the final light show design and functionality before deployment.
  • Work with the sales team to produce high-quality rendered content and light show demonstrations.
  • Adhere to team standards for documentation, maintaining up-to-date records that capture the full scope of the project's technical details, configurations, and modifications.
  • Undertake additional technical or project-based responsibilities as assigned, contributing to the continuous improvement and innovation of lighting solutions and the overall success of the project.
  • Other duties as assigned

Who is Musco:
For more than 50 years, Musco has specialized in sports and large-area lighting and technology, providing innovative solutions for projects in more than 135 countries. Headquartered in Oskaloosa, Iowa, Musco has more than 2,100 team members worldwide. Musco was named an Iowa Top Workplace by The Des Moines Register (2023-2025) and a USA TODAY Top Workplace (2025-2026). Learn more at www.musco.com.
Team Culture and Partnerships:
At Musco, we offer meaningful work in a team-first culture with continuous learning and professional development. We value work-life balance, providing flexibility for community involvement, family activities, and personal time.
As supporters of recreational organizations, we help ensure safer and more enjoyable playing experiences worldwide. If giving back resonates with you, learn more about our partnerships.
At Musco, we make it happen and want you to be a part of it.
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