Explore This Path

Lighting Technician

💰 Earn $52K-$102K

📚 Vocational Training

⏱️ 12–24 Month Training

📈 -4.6% Job Growth

Perfect for those passionate about creating captivating visual experiences.
Bring productions to life by crafting the perfect lighting atmosphere.
Work behind the scenes to transform spaces with innovative lighting techniques.

What Lighting Technicians DoSet up, maintain, and dismantle light fixtures, lighting control devices, and the associated lighting electrical and rigging equipment used for photography, television, film, video, and live productions. May focus or operate light fixtures, or attach color filters or other lighting accessories.

Assess safety of wiring or equipment set-up to determine the risk of fire or electrical shock.
Consult with lighting director or production staff to determine lighting requirements.
Disassemble and store equipment after performances.
Install color effects or image patterns, such as color filters, onto lighting fixtures.
Install electrical cables or wire fixtures.

Lighting Technicians Education, Salary, and Growth

Minimum EducationVocational Training

Career ProspectsShaky (Decreasing by 1-5%)

Training Time1 to 2 years

Job Openings800 Annually

Median Earnings

$74,670 in California

$60,560 Nationally

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Only you can decide how much you need to earn — but knowing what it actually costs to live in your area can help. The Family Budget Calculator can guide you.

Real Talk Reel

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Is This Career Right For You?

YOU Like

Thinking and problem solving
Using data or completing tasks
Working with my hands

you value

Having support
Having freedom
Job security

you are skilled in

Operations Monitoring
Equipment Maintenance
Critical Thinking
Quality Control Analysis
Troubleshooting
Repairing

Go Deeper: Lighting Technicians Explained

Lighting TechnicianExplore career pathways, key skills, and what each role has to offer.

How Do You Train for This Career?

Learn about the education and training paths that can lead to this career — and what to expect from each one.

Bachelor's DegreeA bachelor's degree typically results in increased knowledge about a variety of academic subjects, specialized knowledge in a focused field of study, and is considered the foundational qualification for many careers.

🎓 College

⏱️ Finish in 4-5+ years

Associate's DegreeAn associate's degree typically provides graduates with foundational knowledge and skills for entry-level jobs in the graduate's industry, or serves as a stepping stone towards further education.

🎓 College

⏱️ Finish in 2-3 years

Vocational SchoolA vocational school typically equips students with specialized skills and practical training in specific trades or occupations, enhancing their employability and providing direct pathways to relevant careers.

🎓 Skills-Focused

⏱️ Finish in 6 months - 2 years

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