Lighting Technicians
Lighting technicians set up, maintain, and dismantle lighting equipment for photography, television, film, video, and live productions. They focus light fixtures, attach color filters and accessories, and manage lighting control devices and rigging equipment. Work takes place on film sets, in television studios, concert venues, theaters, and other production environments.
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A day in the work
A typical week involves coordinating with directors and cinematographers to understand lighting needs, rigging fixtures to overhead structures or stands, running electrical connections, and testing equipment before productions begin. During shoots or performances, technicians monitor lights, adjust focus and intensity, change color filters as needed, and troubleshoot any equipment failures. Setup and teardown of complex rigging systems is common, often requiring physical work at heights.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCA. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to like solving practical problems and working with technical equipment in structured environments. You're detail-oriented, reliable, and prefer hands-on work where you can see immediate results. Success comes naturally to you when tasks are clearly defined and you can follow established procedures.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience).
Who is hiring
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | $92,510 | $126,100 | $136,150 | 80 |
| California | $61,040 | $94,070 | $109,560 | 2,950 |
| New Jersey | $86,190 | $87,550 | $102,980 | 340 |
| New York | $55,290 | $78,000 | $105,660 | 780 |
| Connecticut | $65,170 | $72,450 | $93,630 | 80 |
| Georgia | $61,790 | $70,150 | $98,590 | 260 |
| Oklahoma | $53,160 | $67,110 | $83,800 | 60 |
| Louisiana | $42,300 | $66,840 | $108,160 | 40 |
| Florida | $48,380 | $62,190 | $81,030 | 600 |
| Nevada | $45,990 | $61,250 | $80,190 | 390 |
| Tennessee | $45,400 | $60,870 | $82,920 | 280 |
| Virginia | $44,610 | $60,340 | $64,320 | 190 |
All 27 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Apprentice Lighting Technician (CALT) — International Association of Lighting Management Companies
- Certified Senior Lighting Technician (CSLT) — International Association of Lighting Management Companies
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against lighting technicians and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 27-4015.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.