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Lighting Console Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Lighting Board Operator and Electrician is responsible for the operation of lighting and ... Create lighting designs, and program and operate the lighting console for Artistic, Education ...

Lighting Designer

Centerville, MN ยท On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Proficient skills in live lighting console (GrandMA 2 + 3 console software) Preferred ... Occasional operating machinery and/or power tools * Occasional assessment of accuracy, neatness and ...

Lighting Designer

Centerville, MN ยท On-site +1

$25 - $28/hr

Proficient skills in live lighting console (GrandMA 2 + 3 console software) Preferred ... Occasional operating machinery and/or power tools * Occasional assessment of accuracy, neatness and ...

Lighting Operator

Englewood Cliffs, NJ ยท On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

The Lighting Operator will work closely with production crews, directors, editorial partners ... Manage lighting console interfaces and maintain accurate documentation of studio positions, cues ...

... 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 ...

... 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 ...

This position is responsible for all aspects of entertainment lighting including drafting plots, doing load-ins, programming and operating a lighting console, doing load-outs, running a crew, being ...

Position Summary This position is responsible for all aspects of entertainment lighting including drafting plots, doing load-ins, programming and operating a lighting console, doing load-outs ...

New

Light Board Programmer

Boston, MA ยท On-site

$26 - $28/hr

The Light Board Programmer serves as the primary controller of the lighting console in the ... operators. This is a temporary part-time non-exempt position that is expected to work on five ...

New

Operator Trainee

Tuscaloosa, AL ยท On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Provides feedback to the Console Operator when lighting the heaters in the field. * Works to positively address any operating or personnel issues that arise. * Must learn to isolate and prepare all ...

Operator Trainee

Tuscaloosa, AL ยท On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Provides feedback to the Console Operator when lighting the heaters in the field. * Works to positively address any operating or personnel issues that arise. * Must learn to isolate and prepare all ...

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Lighting Console Operator information

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$11

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$28

How much do lighting console operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for lighting console operator in the United States is $19.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $22.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a lighting console operator do?

A Lighting Console Operator is responsible for controlling and programming lighting during live events, performances, or productions. They operate the lighting console to create desired lighting effects, cues, and transitions in real time or as pre-programmed sequences. This role involves working closely with lighting designers, stage managers, and other production staff to ensure the lighting enhances the overall atmosphere and supports the creative vision. Lighting Console Operators also troubleshoot technical issues and maintain the lighting equipment as needed.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lighting console operator?

To thrive as a Lighting Console Operator, you need a solid understanding of lighting design principles, DMX protocol, and show cue management, often supported by experience or formal training in technical theater or live events. Familiarity with industry-standard lighting consoles such as ETC, MA Lighting, or Avolites, as well as basic electrical safety certifications, is typically required. Strong attention to detail, quick problem-solving, and effective communication are vital soft skills for adapting to live performance demands and collaborating with production teams. These skills and qualities ensure precise execution of lighting cues, seamless show operation, and a safe, professional production environment.

What are some typical challenges a lighting console operator might face during live events?

Lighting Console Operators often encounter challenges such as last-minute changes to show cues, adapting to unexpected technical issues, and coordinating closely with the production team under tight time constraints. Quick thinking and strong communication skills are essential, as operators must adjust lighting in real-time to match performers' movements or director requests. Working efficiently during rehearsals and being prepared for high-pressure situations helps ensure smooth and successful shows.

What is the difference between Lighting Console Operator vs Lighting Technician?

AspectLighting Console OperatorLighting Technician
CredentialsLighting or technical certifications, training in console operationLighting or electrical certifications, technical training
Work EnvironmentPerforming live events, concerts, theater productionsInstalling, maintaining, repairing lighting equipment
Employer & IndustryEvent production companies, theaters, concert venuesProduction companies, theaters, touring companies

While both roles work closely with lighting, the Lighting Console Operator primarily focuses on operating lighting consoles during live events, ensuring cues and effects are executed correctly. The Lighting Technician handles setup, maintenance, and repair of lighting equipment. Both roles require technical knowledge, but the Console Operator emphasizes live control, whereas the Technician emphasizes equipment management.

What are popular job titles related to Lighting Console Operator jobs?

For Lighting Console Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Lighting Console Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,204 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Lighting Technician, On-Call

San Francisco, CA โ€ข On-site

SFJAZZ
Educationย โ€ขย 51 - 200 employees

$42.76/hr

Part-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

SFJAZZ is seeking an experienced Lighting Technician join our team.The SFJAZZ Lighting Technician, On-Call position provides crucial on-site lighting support to SFJAZZ Artistic, Education, Development, and Rental performances and events under the supervision of the
Lighting Designer and Technical Director.

The Lighting Board Operator and Electrician
is responsible for the operation of lighting and rigging equipment including
conventional, LED,
intelligent fixtures,
and motors;
while maintaining a working knowledge of lighting systems throughout the SFJAZZ Center. This role requires basic knowledge of ETC Paradigm Systems, ETC Gateway nodes,
as well as
strong programming and operational skills on the GrandMA3
Lighting
console.

Requirements:

  • Create lighting designs, and program and operate the lighting console
    for Artistic, Education, Development, and Rental
    performances / events
  • Hang and focus lighting instruments specific to each performance or event; and restore fixtures per the repertory light plot post-show
  • Assist
    house and visiting Lighting Designers to implement their lighting designs
  • Provide support as a venue lighting representative when interfacing with outside rental clients
  • Assist
    Production stage technicians with show load-in. This includes installing and striking stage, and the set up of music stands, chairs, pianos, amplifiers, drum kits, rugs, and other stage props

Expert proficiency in the following equipment/skills:

  • GrandMA3 lighting console
  • ETC Sensor dimming system
  • ETC Paradigm lighting control system
  • Martin MAC Aura, Ayrton
    Stradele, and/or other moving head equivalent fixtures
  • Safe and secure rigging practices as it pertains to chain hoists, truss, and lighting fixtures
  • Knowledge of electricity (120/208 VAC, 3-)
    and how to tie-in to a company switch
  • Working knowledge of lighting for live music (experience with live Jazz music a plus) and theatrical productions. Experience as a working electrician, lighting board operator, and lighting designer in a performance environment.

Additional Qualifications:

  • Familiarity with Resolume and/or Touch Designer software
  • Knowledge of DMX, OSC and MIDI control across systems

Working Conditions:

This position is required to work a minimum of 1 shift per 60 days. SFJAZZ produces events and performances at all times of the day/week. Evenings/weekends may be required.