Event Production Lighting Technician Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the dynamic world of events, the role of an Event Production Lighting Technician shines brightly.

As events continue to evolve and captivate audiences, the demand for skilled professionals who can create, adapt, and manage complex lighting setups escalates.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s really expected of an Event Production Lighting Technician?

Whether you are:

• An aspiring professional trying to understand the core of this job,
• A hiring manager defining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply captivated by the intricate world of event lighting,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Event Production Lighting Technician job description template, crafted for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s delve right into it.

Event Production Lighting Technician Duties and Responsibilities

Event Production Lighting Technicians are responsible for setting up and operating lighting equipment for live events such as concerts, theatre performances, television shows, films, and corporate events.

They work closely with the event director, production manager, and other technical staff to create the desired lighting effects.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Interpreting lighting designs and translating them into a practical setup
• Setting up, rigging, and dismantling lighting equipment before and after events
• Operating lighting equipment during live events to produce desired effects
• Performing maintenance and repairs on lighting equipment
• Collaborating with the director, production manager, and other technical staff to achieve desired lighting effects
• Staying up-to-date with the latest lighting technology and techniques
• Ensuring all lighting equipment is safe and compliant with health and safety regulations
• Troubleshooting any lighting or technical issues that may arise during an event
• Managing the inventory of lighting equipment and supplies

 

Event Production Lighting Technician Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a skilled Event Production Lighting Technician to join our production team.

The Lighting Technician will be responsible for the setup, monitoring, and maintenance of the lighting equipment during events.

The ideal candidate is familiar with a variety of lighting equipment and techniques and has a deep understanding of how lighting impacts the quality and mood of an event.

The technician should be capable of working in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment while maintaining a high level of professionalism and attention to detail.

 

Responsibilities

• Set up and install lighting equipment before events
• Operate lighting equipment during live events
• Coordinate with the production team to create lighting designs that support the event’s theme
• Maintain, repair, and troubleshoot lighting equipment
• Ensure safety protocols are followed during setup and operation of lighting equipment
• Disassemble equipment after events and ensure it is safely stored
• Stay current with latest trends and advancements in event lighting

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a lighting technician in the event production industry
• Strong knowledge of different types of lighting equipment and fixtures
• Good understanding of electrical systems and safety
• Ability to work under pressure and solve problems quickly
• Great attention to detail
• Excellent physical condition and endurance
• Ability to work flexible hours, including nights and weekends
• High school diploma or equivalent; Certification in theater, lighting, or a related field is a plus

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Event Production Lighting Technician
• Work Environment: This role often requires working in various venues, outdoors, and in varying weather conditions. Physical activity, such as lifting heavy equipment, is frequently required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Event Production Manager or Lead Lighting Technician.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $35,000 minimum to $55,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Event Production Lighting Technician Do?

Event Production Lighting Technicians are critical members of the production team in the event planning and entertainment industry.

They work for production companies, event venues, or as independent contractors.

Their primary task is to create, set up, and manage lighting systems for live events such as concerts, theatrical performances, corporate events, and festivals.

This involves understanding the lighting requirements as per the event theme or the director’s vision, and designing a lighting plan accordingly.

Lighting Technicians are responsible for the installation and operation of the lighting equipment, which may include spotlights, LED screens, strobe lights, and lasers.

They must ensure the lights are focused and colored as per the design, and make adjustments as necessary during the event.

They work closely with the production team, particularly the sound technicians and stage managers, to synchronize the lighting with the event’s flow.

This involves programming and operating light boards, often in real-time during performances.

Technicians are also responsible for troubleshooting any issues that may arise with the lighting equipment.

After the event, they dismantle the lighting setup safely and efficiently.

Additionally, Event Production Lighting Technicians are often involved in the transportation and maintenance of the lighting equipment.

They must adhere to safety regulations and standards to ensure a safe environment for the event attendees and the production crew.

 

Event Production Lighting Technician Qualifications and Skills

An efficient Event Production Lighting Technician should possess a range of technical skills, creativity and strong understanding of lighting design, including:

• Technical knowledge and proficiency in the use and maintenance of lighting equipment and tools such as moving lights, LEDs, conventional fixtures, and lighting consoles.
• Understanding of electrical systems, power distribution, and circuitry to ensure safe and efficient setup and operation of lighting equipment.
• Artistic vision and creativity to design lighting schemes that enhance the mood, theme, and visual appeal of the event.
• Attention to detail and precision to effectively balance and adjust lighting levels, color mixtures, and special effects.
• Strong problem-solving abilities to troubleshoot and fix lighting issues quickly and efficiently during live events.
• Ability to read and interpret lighting plots, stage layouts and technical diagrams.
• Good physical condition to handle the demanding setup and take down of lighting equipment, often including lifting heavy objects and working at heights.
• Collaboration and communication skills to effectively work with directors, designers, performers and other technicians to achieve the desired lighting effects.
• Time management skills to ensure tasks are completed on schedule, often under tight deadlines.

 

Event Production Lighting Technician Experience Requirements

Event Production Lighting Technicians often start their journey through formal training in areas like theater production, design, or electrical engineering, where they gain foundational knowledge and practical experience.

Entry-level candidates usually have 1 to 2 years of experience, often gained through internships, part-time roles, or volunteering at local events, theaters, or on film sets.

These roles provide hands-on experience with various lighting equipment and systems, as well as understanding of lighting design and operation.

Technicians with 3 to 5 years of experience typically have a solid foundation in lighting technology and have often worked in various roles in the field, such as Lighting Operator, Lighting Designer or Assistant Lighting Technician.

These roles provide them with experience in creating lighting designs, setting up and operating lighting equipment, and troubleshooting technical issues.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are likely to have advanced technical knowledge and skills.

They may have worked in senior roles like Senior Lighting Technician or Lighting Supervisor, gaining leadership and managerial experience.

These professionals are equipped to oversee large-scale events, manage teams, and coordinate with other production departments for seamless event execution.

 

Event Production Lighting Technician Education and Training Requirements

Event Production Lighting Technicians generally start their careers with a high school diploma or equivalent qualification.

Many technicians acquire their skills through vocational schools or community colleges where they complete a program in theatrical production, broadcasting, or a related field.

Such programs provide a combination of theoretical and hands-on training on areas such as electrical systems, stage lighting, light control, and maintenance.

A considerable part of the training involves gaining practical experience.

Internships or entry-level jobs at theaters, concert venues, or broadcasting companies can provide such experience.

Knowledge of computer systems, particularly lighting control software, is a significant advantage in this field.

Therefore, technicians should be comfortable with technology and willing to keep up with the latest advancements.

Some positions might require a bachelor’s degree in a related field like theater production or lighting design.

However, significant hands-on experience can sometimes substitute for formal education.

Certifications are not typically required, but they can demonstrate a candidate’s competence and dedication to the role.

For instance, the Entertainment Services and Technology Association offers an Entertainment Electrician Certification.

This certification is useful for those working in the live event industry as it covers key areas like power distribution and lighting instruments.

Maintaining safety is paramount in this role, so training in first aid and safety procedures is crucial.

Technicians may also need to learn about rigging, as they often install lighting equipment at great heights.

In some cases, a rigging certification may be required.

Continuing education is essential in this rapidly evolving field.

Technicians are expected to keep up with the latest lighting technologies and industry standards.

 

Event Production Lighting Technician Salary Expectations

An Event Production Lighting Technician earns an average salary of $45,000 (USD) per year.

The actual income can fluctuate based on factors such as the size and scope of the events they work on, their level of experience, and their location.

 

Event Production Lighting Technician Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Event Production Lighting Technician need?

Event Production Lighting Technicians need strong technical skills to operate, maintain, and troubleshoot lighting equipment.

They should also have a good sense of aesthetics to create the desired atmosphere and lighting effects for different events.

Physical stamina is also necessary as the job involves setting up and taking down heavy equipment.

Communication and teamwork skills are essential as they often work with other production staff.

 

Do Event Production Lighting Technicians need a degree?

While a degree is not always necessary, having a diploma or degree in theatre technology, lighting design or a related field can be beneficial.

On-job training and experience are often considered more valuable.

Some roles might require certification from recognized bodies such as PLASA (Professional Lighting and Sound Association).

 

What should you look for in an Event Production Lighting Technician resume?

Look for evidence of technical skills such as operating lighting consoles, programming light shows, and maintaining lighting equipment.

Also, check for experience in different types of events such as concerts, theatre productions, or corporate events.

Experience working in a team and problem-solving skills are also essential.

Any formal training or certification in lighting technology would be a plus.

 

What qualities make a good Event Production Lighting Technician?

A good Event Production Lighting Technician has a keen eye for detail and an aesthetic sense to create visually appealing lighting effects.

They should be flexible, adaptable, and able to work under pressure as event productions often have tight schedules and unexpected issues can arise.

They should also have good physical stamina and be safety-conscious.

 

What are the daily duties of an Event Production Lighting Technician?

On a typical day, an Event Production Lighting Technician might start with setting up lighting equipment for an event.

They will then program and operate the lighting console to create the desired lighting effects.

During the event, they monitor the lighting to ensure it works as planned.

After the event, they are responsible for safely dismantling and storing the lighting equipment.

They may also need to perform routine maintenance on the equipment.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve illuminated the path to understanding what being an event production lighting technician truly entails.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about adjusting lights.

It’s about painting the stage with light and creating unforgettable experiences, one light cue at a time.

With our tailor-made event production lighting technician job description template and practical examples, you’re ready to light your way forward.

But why limit yourself?

Immerse yourself further with our job description generator. It’s your gateway to meticulously crafted listings or honing your resume to brilliance.

Remember:

Every light cue contributes to the grand spectacle.

Let’s brighten that future. Together.

How to Become an Event Production Lighting Technician (Complete Guide)

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