Purpose: The Lighting Designer is responsible for the artistic and technical design of lighting for theatrical productions, live performances, events, and presentations. Working closely with directors, production managers, scenic designers, stage managers, and technical staff, the Lighting Designer develops and implements lighting concepts that support the creative vision, enhance storytelling, and ensure safe and effective execution of the production.

The role combines artistic creativity with technical knowledge of lighting systems, control equipment, electrical distribution, rigging practices, and production workflows.

Key Responsibilities

Artistic & Creative Responsibilities

• Develop a lighting concept that supports the artistic vision of the production.

• Attend production meetings, rehearsals, and design presentations.

• Analyze scripts, music, choreography, or event requirements to determine lighting needs.

• Collaborate with directors, choreographers, scenic designers, costume designers, projection designers, and other creative team members.

• Create mood, atmosphere, focus, and visual composition through lighting design.

• Select color palettes, textures, angles, timing, and visual effects appropriate to the production.

Technical Responsibilities

• Produce lighting plots, sections, paperwork, and related documentation.

• Specify lighting instruments, control systems, practicals, effects equipment, and accessories.

• Coordinate lighting system requirements with venue technical staff and production management.

• Program lighting consoles or supervise console programming.

• Direct lighting focus sessions and cueing rehearsals.

• Ensure lighting systems are installed and operated safely and efficiently.

• Troubleshoot technical and operational issues during production periods.

• Maintain awareness of power distribution, rigging limitations, and venue infrastructure.

Production & Administrative Responsibilities

• Work within production schedules and budget limitations.

• Coordinate equipment rentals and special effects requirements when necessary.

• Communicate clearly with electricians, programmers, board operators, and stage crews.

• Revise designs and cueing based on rehearsal changes and production needs.

• Maintain accurate records and updated lighting documentation.

• Participate in production load-ins, technical rehearsals, previews, performances, and strike as required.

Required Skills & Qualifications

• Strong understanding of theatrical and live event lighting practices.

• Knowledge of lighting consoles, dimming systems, DMX/sACN networking, and intelligent fixtures.

• Ability to read and create technical drawings and lighting paperwork.

• Familiarity with CAD software such as Vectorworks Spotlight, AutoCAD, or similar platforms.

• Experience with lighting visualization and programming software is an asset.

• Strong organizational, communication, and collaborative skills.

• Ability to work under deadlines in fast-paced production environments.

• Understanding of workplace safety standards and theatrical rigging practices.

• Flexible schedule including evenings, weekends, holidays, and touring periods when required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Degree, diploma, or equivalent professional experience in theatre production, lighting design, or live entertainment.

• Previous experience in theatre, dance, opera, concerts, corporate events, or touring productions.

• Working knowledge of ETC console platforms such as ETC Eos Family.

• Experience with LED systems, moving lights, media integration, and networking protocols.

• Working Conditions

• Work may occur in theatres, studios, concert venues, rehearsal halls, warehouses, and outdoor event environments.

• Requires periods of standing, climbing ladders, working at heights, and lifting production equipment.

• Extended hours during technical rehearsals, load-ins, and performances are common.