How to Be Scene Lighting Technician - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jan 11, 2022 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The job of a Lighting Technician is an extremely important role in the production of almost any event. Properly set lighting can help to set the tone of the event, create atmosphere and make sure that the audience can clearly see what is happening on stage. Without a Lighting Technician to set, adjust and maintain the lighting, the event would be unable to convey its message to the audience.

Lighting Technicians must have a good understanding of how different light sources work, how to adjust and program the lights, and how to interpret the director's vision. This knowledge and experience is essential for creating the desired effect and helping to make the event a success.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. Most employers require a high school diploma or equivalent to become a scene lighting technician.
Earn an associate degree in stage lighting technology or a related field. This degree program is available at many technical schools and community colleges. During the course of the program, students learn about lighting design, equipment, and safety.
Join a union. Many theater companies require their lighting technicians to be members of a union such as the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE). To join, you must have a valid state drivers license and proof of completion of an approved apprenticeship program.
Obtain experience in the field. Many employers prefer to hire technicians with experience. You can gain experience by volunteering at local theater companies or working for production companies that specialize in live events.
Get certified in scene lighting technology. Some employers may require technicians to have certification in scene lighting technology. You can obtain certification through organizations such as the Live Design International (LDI) or the Entertainment Services and Technology Association (ESTA).
Maintain your certification. You must renew your certification every few years in order to stay current in the field.

To become a skilled and competent Lighting Technician, one must have a thorough knowledge of lighting equipment, lighting techniques, and be able to effectively and efficiently manipulate the light. This requires experience, practice, and dedication. it is beneficial to have an understanding of stage direction and design, as well as the ability to work collaboratively with other members of the production team.

With the right set of tools, techniques, and skills, a Lighting Technician can create stunning effects that will enhance the performance and captivate the audience. By having a strong technical foundation and honing their craft, a Lighting Technician can become a respected and valued member of any production team.

You may want to check Animated/Scene Designer, Scene Shop Assistant, and Live Action/Scene Designer for alternative.

Job Description

Assess lighting needs of event spaces and set up equipment accordingly.
Assemble and install truss, rigging, and other structural components in preparation for lighting.
Hang and focus spotlights, floodlights, and other fixtures on stage according to lighting design.
Test and troubleshoot lighting systems to ensure proper functioning.
Program and operate lighting consoles for automated cues during performances.
Work with other technicians to ensure that all aspects of the lighting design are properly implemented.
Monitor lighting levels, color temperatures, and other settings throughout the duration of the performance.
Make adjustments and repairs as needed to maintain the desired lighting design.
Assist the lighting designer in creating new lighting designs or modifying existing designs.
Operate spotlights, followspots, and other special effects lights as needed for the performance.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of different types of lighting fixtures and their uses
Ability to read and interpret technical drawings
Understanding of the principles of light and color
Ability to troubleshoot lighting equipment
Familiarity with the operation and programming of lighting consoles
Knowledge of rigging and safety procedures
Proficient in the use of ladders, lifts, and other related equipment
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
Ability to work collaboratively with other technicians and crew members
Ability to maintain accurate records and paperwork
Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written

A skilled Lighting Technician is essential to the success of any stage production. The technical knowledge of lighting equipment, lighting design concepts and the ability to troubleshoot problems quickly can make or break a production. Knowing how to use the correct lighting to create the desired atmosphere and mood for a performance is a critical skill for a Lighting Technician.

An understanding of the physics of light, including color temperature, intensity, and diffusion, is also essential for successful stage lighting. being able to work with a variety of equipment and set up the best possible lighting configuration for each performance is key. All of these skills are necessary for a Lighting Technician in order to create the most effective and aesthetically pleasing light shows for the audience.

Projection/Scene Designer, Theatre/Scene Technician, and Scene Props Master are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

Describe your experience working with scene lighting equipment.
How do you troubleshoot a technical issue with scene lighting equipment?
What techniques do you use to ensure that the lighting design meets the director's expectations?
How do you work with other technicians to ensure that all elements of the set are properly lit?
Describe the process of setting up and calibrating lights for a production.
How do you handle last-minute changes to the lighting plan?
What safety measures do you take when operating lighting equipment?
What kind of maintenance do you perform on scene lighting equipment?
How do you stay up to date on the latest lighting technologies and techniques?
How do you ensure that the lighting design meets budget and timeline constraints?

Common Tools in Industry

Lighting Console. A device used to control the dimming and color of stage lights. (eg: GrandMA2)
Gels. Sheets of dyed plastic used to alter the color of stage lights. (eg: Roscolux #23 Lemon)
Ladders. Used to safely reach high places for installation and maintenance. (eg: Little Giant SkyScraper)
Extension Cords. Used to extend the reach of electrical outlets. (eg: Power Gear 50ft Outdoor)
Flashlights. Used to find and trouble shoot problems in dimly lit areas. (eg: Maglite LED D-Cell)
Dimmers. Used to control the brightness of stage lights. (eg: Strand CD80)
Clamps. Used to secure lighting equipment in place. (eg: Manfrotto Super Clamp)
Cable Ties. Used to keep cables organized and out of the way. (eg: Ook 50-Pack)
Scissors. Used to cut gels, cable ties, and other materials. (eg: Fiskars Titanium Scissors)
Tape Measure. Used to measure distances in installation or maintenance projects. (eg: Stanley 25ft Tape Measure)

Professional Organizations to Know

United States Institute for Theatre Technology (USITT)
International Association of Lighting Designers (IALD)
Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers (SMPTE)
International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE)
American Society of Cinematographers (ASC)
Illuminating Engineering Society (IES)
Entertainment Services and Technology Association (ESTA)
Professional Lighting and Production Association (PLASA)
Entertainment Services and Technology Association Europe (ESTE)
International Association of Venue Managers (IAVM)

We also have Scene Shop Foreman, Scene Dresser, and Video/Scene Editor jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Gaffer. The lead lighting technician on a production responsible for the design and implementation of the lighting setup.
Key Grip. The chief grip on a production responsible for the coordination of all grips and equipment.
Stands. A type of equipment used to support lights and other fixtures.
Fixture. A light, such as a floodlight or spotlight, that is used for scene lighting.
Dimmer. An electronic device used to control the brightness of a light.
Color Filter. A transparent material that is placed in front of a light source to alter its color.
Gobo. An image, pattern, or logo projected onto a surface with a light.
Gels. Colored sheets of plastic used to modify the color of a light source.
Softbox. A box-like structure that diffuses and softens the light it emits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What does a Scene Lighting Technician do? A1: A Scene Lighting Technician is responsible for setting up and operating lighting equipment for theatrical productions, concerts, and other live events. They work with lighting designers to create the desired visual effects and adjust the lighting as necessary during performances. Q2: What tools do Scene Lighting Technicians use? A2: Scene Lighting Technicians use a variety of tools, including dimmers, lighting consoles, and spotlights. They may also use color filters, gobos, and other special effects to create the desired lighting design. Q3: What qualifications are required to be a Scene Lighting Technician? A3: Scene Lighting Technicians must have an understanding of electricity and the principles of light, as well as knowledge of standard lighting techniques. Most technicians have a degree in theatre production or related field. Q4: How much do Scene Lighting Technicians earn? A4: Scene Lighting Technicians typically earn an average of $15-20 per hour, depending on experience and market rates. Salaried positions may range from $35,000 to $60,000 per year. Q5: What physical requirements are needed to work as a Scene Lighting Technician? A5: Scene Lighting Technicians must be able to work in cramped and awkward positions for extended periods of time, and must be able to lift and maneuver heavy lighting equipment. They must also be comfortable working at heights and in challenging environments.