What does a Lighting Technician do?

A theatre Lighting Technician (LT) prepares and operates the lighting system for a production. They make the lighting effects for live theatre productions based on the designs created by the Lighting Designer (LD). The type of work can vary depending on the production.

What are the main responsibilities of a theatre Lighting Technician?

Communicating with the Lighting Designer and making sure you understand their lighting plan and you are able to produce what is asked for
Rigging and operating necessary lighting equipment
Taking direction and cues from the Deputy Stage Manager
Use manual and computer-controlled lighting systems during the show
Keeping lighting equipment in a good and safe working condition
Electrical maintenance duties when needed
Keeping updated with new technology within the theatre industry

Search Technician opportunities to help you get into theatre here

What qualifications do I need to work in lighting?

You do not need a degree for this role and most training takes place on the job. Additional training throughout your career is essential to keep your knowledge up-to-date. You can gain qualifications in any subject related to lighting design and technology such as:

Electrical/Electronic Engineering
Lighting Design and Technology
Theatre Lighting Design
Technical Theatre
Performing Arts
Art & Design

Find training opportunities to be a lighting technician from across the theatre industry here

What skills do I need?

Good communicator
Work well under pressure to tight deadlines
Creative
Technical knowledge and ability
Programming skills
Safety awareness

What does a career in lighting look like?

You can start as a Stagehand, Lighting Crew or casual Technician. You can get these roles through apprenticeships, work experience or even technical based youth theatres. You can also start as an Assistant at a lighting hire company as they are often involved in productions and there is potential to get your foot in the door this way. Some venues will have in-house technicians that may cover both sound and lighting.

Some people go on to work as Lighting Designers. Have a look at our vlog with Lighting Designer and Technician Rajiv Pattani.

How much can a theatre Lighting Technician earn?

A starting salary for a Lighting Technician can be an apprenticeship wage or on a minimum wage zero hour contract. Lighting Technicians on specific tours or productions can earn a weekly fee, with in-house technicians either working as a casual, or receiving a regular salary. For more information about Technician rates and jobs, you can join the Association of British Theatre Technicians.

The above is a guide. Pay, salary or fee can vary depending on the theatre or company, as well as your personal experience. National institutions or commercial productions can pay in excess of the above, with profit-share or community theatre paying less.

You can find theatre jobs via The Stage Jobs here