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Theatrical Lighting Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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

Lighting Designer

Culver City, CA · On-site

$76K - $81K/yr

Bachelor's degree or above in Lighting Design or Architectural Engineering or Architecture or Interior Design or Theatrical Lighting or related education and experience * 2 to 4 years' experience

Lighting Designer

Miami, FL · On-site

$68K - $73K/yr

Bachelor's degree or above in Lighting Design or Architectural Engineering or Architecture or Interior Design or Theatrical Lighting or related education and experience * 2 to 4 years' experience

Lighting Designer

Culver City, CA · On-site

$76K - $81K/yr

Bachelor's degree or above in Lighting Design or Architectural Engineering or Architecture or Interior Design or Theatrical Lighting or related education and experience * 2 to 4 years' experience

Senior Lighting Designer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$85K - $91K/yr

Bachelor's degree or above in Lighting Design or Architectural Engineering or Architecture or Interior Design or Theatrical Lighting or related education and experience * 3 to 5 years' experience

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Theatrical Lighting information

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How much do theatrical lighting jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for theatrical 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 some common challenges faced by theatrical lighting professionals during live performances?

Theatrical lighting professionals often encounter challenges such as adapting to last-minute changes in blocking or cues, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions under tight time constraints, and ensuring seamless coordination with stage managers and other technical teams. Additionally, balancing artistic vision with safety requirements and budget limitations can be demanding. Success in the role requires flexibility, strong problem-solving skills, and clear communication with directors, designers, and other crew members to deliver effective lighting that enhances the overall production.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a theatrical lighting technician?

To thrive as a Theatrical Lighting Technician, you need a strong understanding of lighting design, electrical systems, and stagecraft, often supported by technical theater training or vocational certification. Familiarity with lighting consoles (such as ETC or GrandMA), DMX control systems, and industry-standard lighting fixtures is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, problem-solving, and the ability to work under pressure are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure safe, creative, and efficient lighting operations that support the artistic vision and technical demands of live productions.

What is a theatrical lighting professional?

Theatrical lighting professionals are responsible for designing, setting up, and operating lighting systems for live performances such as plays, musicals, concerts, and other stage events. They work closely with directors, set designers, and other crew members to create lighting effects that enhance the mood, focus attention, and support the artistic vision of a production. Their work involves selecting appropriate lighting equipment, programming lighting cues, and ensuring safety throughout the performance.

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

AspectTheatrical LightingStage Lighting Technician
CredentialsLighting design certifications, technical trainingTechnical training, industry experience
Work EnvironmentTheaters, concert halls, production studiosTheaters, live events, touring productions
Industry UsageDesign and conceptualize lighting for performancesImplement and operate lighting setups during shows

While both roles involve working with lighting in theatrical settings, Theatrical Lighting focuses on designing and planning lighting schemes, whereas Stage Lighting Technicians execute and operate the lighting during performances. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the industry.

More about Theatrical Lighting jobs
What cities are hiring for Theatrical Lighting jobs? Cities with the most Theatrical Lighting job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Theatrical Lighting jobs? The most popular types of Theatrical Lighting jobs are:
What states have the most Theatrical Lighting jobs? States with the most job openings for Theatrical Lighting jobs include:
Infographic showing various Theatrical Lighting job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,268 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

Lighting Supervisor

University of Hartford

West Hartford, CT • On-site

$30/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


University Of Hartford rating

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

597th of 617 rated colleges and universities


Job description

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 Monday - Friday with some nights and weekends Position Summary
Responsible for the coordination, implementation, and maintenance of all theatrical lighting elements for live performances and events for The Hartt School and University events held in the performing spaces of The Hartt School. Plays a critical role in supporting the artistic vision of productions while fostering a safe, professional, and educational environment for students. Ensures that lighting systems and equipment are properly installed, maintained, and operated in alignment with industry standards. Performs all duties in full support of the University's mission, understanding that the positive effective execution of these duties is instrumental to the education of the University students.
Hiring Range $30 per hour
Key Responsibilities
Key Responsibilities
Lighting Coordination and Oversight
  • Manages all logistics related to lighting for Hartt School productions, concerts, and University special events in all performing spaces of The Hartt School.
  • Collaborates with Lighting Designers, Directors, and production teams to realize artistic concepts within the capabilities of Hartt's venues.
  • Assists with designs and maintaining basic light plots for Hartt and University productions.
  • Designs basic light plots for Hartt and University productions as needed.
  • Programs and operates lighting consoles for rehearsals, technical rehearsals, and performances as needed.
Technical Execution
  • Installs, maintains, and troubleshoots theatrical lighting equipment, including conventional and intelligent fixtures, dimming systems, and control consoles.
  • Programs and operates computerized lighting consoles (ETC or similar) as required.
  • Ensures compliance with electrical safety standards and best practices.
Educational Support and Leadership
  • Supervises and mentors students in lighting techniques, equipment use, and safe practices.
  • Leads and trains lighting crews during hang, focus, show runs, and strike calls.
  • Serves as a resource for students' technical learning and professional development.
Maintenance and Inventory
  • Organizes, maintains, and repairs lighting instruments and accessories for all performing spaces of The Hartt School.
  • Maintains accurate inventory of lighting equipment and expendables for all performing spaces of The Hartt School.
  • Researches and recommends upgrades or improvements to lighting systems for all performing spaces of The Hartt School.
Collaboration and Communication
  • Attends production meetings to understand design concepts and schedules.
  • Communicates effectively with supervisor, faculty, designers, directors, and technical staff to ensure timely and accurate implementation of lighting designs.
Other Duties
  • Supports the educational mission of The Hartt School by fostering a collaborative and inclusive learning environment.
  • Performs additional tasks as assigned by the Director of Theater Operations and Production and the Dean.
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number PS1193P Working Conditions
High noise environment.
Requires extensive safety training and/or protective devices.
Regular exposure to moving machinery and/or vehicles.
Works on slippery or uneven surfaces.
Works on elevated surfaces or below ground level. Stockroom or warehouse.
High dust, dirt, grease environment.
Works with poor ventilation or with regular exposure to odors.
Regular exposure to chemicals, solvents.
Works in darkness or with poor lighting.
Requires travel, excluding overnight stays.
Education
Bachelor's degree preferred, or equivalent professional experience.
Physical Effort
Requires repeated reaching by extending hand(s) and/or arm(s) in any direction.
Requires balancing to prevent falling or erratic movement.
Climbing ladders or scaffolds.
Requires feeling to perceive an object(s) size, shape, temperature or texture by means of senses in your skin. Intermittently sitting, standing, stooping.
Typically crawling and/or kneeling.
Typically pushing and/or pulling.
Requires handling by seizing, holding, grasping, or turning hands, but without finger dexterity.
Heavy lifting or carrying 51 lbs or more.
Using equipment requiring high dexterity.
Requires distinguishing colors and/or depth perception to judge distances.
Special Skills
The ability to work effectively with diverse groups.
Proficiency in theatrical lighting systems, including ETC or similar consoles.
Strong knowledge of electrical theory and safety practices.
Ability to read and interpret lighting plots and technical drawings.
Desired Start Date Position End Date (if temporary) Close Date Open Until Filled Yes Special Instructions Summary Quick Link for Internal Postings https://hartford.peopleadmin.com/postings/7712

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