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Theatre Lighting Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SeaWorld

Show Lighting Technician

Busch, AR · On-site

Participates as an integral contributor to the Theatrical Services and Entertainment Show Operations teams. * Executes the operation and general maintenance of Show Product lighting and/or video ...

Owens Community College

$33K - $41K/yr

Knowledge of lighting and sound design. Knowledge of applicable safety regulations. * Written ... Technical operations of Theatre lighting, sound supervision, and scenic construction Operating live ...

legence

Lighting Designer

El Segundo, CA

The ideal candidate will have recent architectural lighting design training, or lighting adjacent design training (interiors / architecture / landscape architecture / theatrical lighting) and 2 - 3 ...

University of Hartford

Lighting Supervisor

Hartford, CT · On-site

$30/hr

Position Details Position Information Position Title Lighting Supervisor FLSA Classification NE Reports to Director of Theater Operations and Production Salary Range F1 Weeks Per Year 52 Work Week ...

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How much do theatre lighting jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 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 is a theatre lighting technician?

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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a theatre lighting technician?

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 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.

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.

How much do theatre lighting designers make?

Theatre lighting designers typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of productions. Salaries can increase with advanced skills in lighting design software and a strong portfolio of work.

How to become a theatre lighting technician?

To become a theatre lighting technician, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by training or an apprenticeship in stage lighting. Skills in electrical work, knowledge of lighting equipment and control systems, and familiarity with safety protocols are essential; some pursue technical theater programs or certifications to enhance their qualifications.

How to get into theatre lighting?

To pursue a career in theatre lighting, gain experience through internships or entry-level positions in theatrical production, and develop skills in lighting design, operation, and programming. Familiarity with lighting consoles, such as ETC or GrandMA, and understanding of stagecraft are essential, along with a relevant education or training in theater technology or production arts.
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Theatre Lighting jobs near you
Infographic showing various Theatre Lighting job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 1% Contract. 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.

Manager, Exhibition Lighting

Cincinnati Museum Center & National Underground Railroad Freedom Center

Cincinnati, OH

$53K/hr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

Manager, Exhibition Lighting
Cincinnati Museum Center
Reports to: Senior Director, Exhibition Services
Department: Exhibits
FSLA Status: FT/Exempt
Salary: 53,500, commensurate with experience
The statements below reflect the general details considered necessary to describe the major responsibilities of the identified position and are not to be construed as a detailed description of all the work requirements that may be inherent in the job.
Position Overview:
The Manager, Exhibition Lighting, provides oversight related to the installation and maintenance of lighting equipment for permanent, temporary, and traveling exhibitions at Cincinnati Museum Center, as well as external exhibition projects. This position works directly with the Senior Director, Exhibition Services, and Director, Exhibition Design, to support the planning and execution of exhibition projects across the institution. This position requires a thorough knowledge of lighting equipment and operational systems, organizational expertise, a willingness to collaborate with team members across the institution, and the ability to engage with and contribute to a vision of excellence for CMC’s exhibition work. This position contributes to maintaining a safe environment for guests within the exhibition galleries.
Responsibilities and Duties:
Permanent Exhibition Lighting Design and Maintenance
  • Design and source equipment for new or updated galleries and in-case lighting for permanent exhibitions.
  • Reviews exhibition plans and fabrication details with design and production teams to ensure the highest quality results.
  • Lead the installation of lighting equipment in new or updated galleries.
  • Oversee and maintain existing gallery and in-case lighting, including theatrical lighting control programs and hardware repairs.
  • Maintain awareness of emerging trends in lighting equipment and techniques.
  • Develop and maintain equipment replacement schedule for all galleries.
  • Adjust gallery lighting for events and programs, as needed.
  • Act as main point of contact for critical lighting concerns and troubleshooting.
Featured Exhibition and Contract Services, Lighting Design, and Maintenance
  • Collaborate with traveling exhibition providers and internal teams to plan and prepare CMC galleries for the exhibition, including the installation of out-of-house lighting systems, hanging truss, and power distribution.
  • Work with traveling exhibition providers and internal teams to facilitate the installation, deinstallation, and daily operation of lighting within temporary exhibition galleries.
  • Work alongside Collections and Design teams regarding appropriate light levels for sensitive materials, theatrical components, and guest safety.
  • Manage temporary gallery lighting system, including the implementation of software and hardware updates.
  • Act as main point of contact for critical lighting concerns and troubleshooting.
Exhibition Production Services
  • Assist with the fabrication, gallery preparation, load-in and out, installation, and deinstallation of exhibit components for permanent, temporary, and traveling exhibitions.
  • Participates in the installation and deinstallation of traveling exhibits owned or managed by CMC at organizations located across the U.S.
  • Works alongside internal teams on the ongoing maintenance of all exhibitions.
Qualifications and Experience:
  • Bachelor’s degree in theater lighting, production, media production, or a related field. A 2-year degree plus work experience will be considered.
  • Experience working with exhibits, museums, or other arts production organizations.
  • Experience with converting international power draws of 220VAC to 120VAC for components of traveling exhibitions from outside of North America.
  • Experience with CueServer and Xicato lighting control systems, LSI fixtures, and building-wide control systems, such as Lutron, is strongly preferred.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
  • Ability to take initiative, work both independently and collaboratively, and think creatively to problem solve.
  • Strong understanding of lighting materials and techniques.
  • Electrical skills, including soldering, working with and troubleshooting low voltage DC, LED lighting, 120VAC lighting, and wiring.
  • Ability to adapt and be flexible in a dynamic work environment with hard deadlines.
  • Knowledge of common woodworking tools.
  • Ability to work accurately from drawings and floorplans.
  • Ability to safely operate a forklift and scissor lift.
  • Proficiency in Adobe and Microsoft Office software.
Additional Requirements and Working Conditions
  • Must be able to stand and walk for long periods of time.
  • Must be able to perform work on a ladder or lift, work on equipment overhead, and crawl under display components to access equipment.
  • Time is spent in an office setting as well as galleries during installation, deinstallation, and during open hours.
  • The exhibit galleries contain areas of low and special effect lighting as well as ambient and interactive audio components and the workshop contains loud sounds of machinery and equipment as well as various tools. Outside weather conditions vary during the loading and unloading of exhibition trucks.
Cincinnati Museum Center and the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center are proud to be Equal Opportunity Employers. We do not discriminate against any applicant or employee based upon race, religion, color, national origin, sex, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, breast feeding, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability, genetic information, military status, veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.

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