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Lighting Technicians

Overview

Lighting technicians set up and control lighting equipment for live television broadcasts, recorded television shows, motion pictures, and video productions. They begin by consulting with the production director and technical director to determine the types of lighting and special effects that are needed. Working with spot and flood lights, mercury-vapor lamps, white and colored lights, reflectors (mainly employed out-of-doors), and a large array of dimming, masking, and switching controls, they light scenes to be broadcast or recorded. Lighting technicians are sometimes known as assistant chief set electricians or lights operators.

Salary Range

$25,000 to $100,000

Minimum Education Level

Some Postsecondary Training

Certification/License

Recommended

Outlook

About as Fast as the Average
Personality Traits

Hands On

Problem-Solving

Technical

Career Ladder
Chief Lighting Technician or Key Grip

Best Boy

Lighting Technician

Assistant Lighting Technician or Production Assistant