Lighting Engineer & Designer

Job Summary:

We are seeking a talented and passionate Live Events Lighting Engineer and Designer to join our production team. This position requires a creative individual with a strong technical background in lighting systems and a proven ability to translate artistic vision into captivating visual experiences. The ideal candidate will be responsible for all aspects of lighting, from conceptual design and programming to installation, operation, and maintenance, ensuring the highest quality of illumination for a diverse range of live events.

Requirements

Key Responsibilities:

Lighting Design & Pre-Production:

Collaborate with clients, producers, directors, and other designers (e.g., set, video) to understand project requirements and creative vision.

Develop innovative and impactful lighting designs that enhance the aesthetic and emotional impact of live events.

Create detailed lighting plots, fixture schedules, cable diagrams, and equipment lists using CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, Vectorworks Spotlight).

Specify appropriate lighting fixtures, control systems, power distribution, and rigging equipment based on design needs and budget.

Conduct site visits and collaborate with venues to assess power, rigging, and logistical requirements.

Develop and manage lighting budgets, ensuring cost-effective solutions without compromising quality.

Program lighting consoles (e.g., grandMA, Hog, Avolites) for various cues and effects, often in a pre-visualization environment.

Stay up-to-date with emerging lighting technologies, software, and industry best practices. Lighting Engineering & On-Site Execution:

Oversee the safe and efficient installation, rigging, and focus of all lighting equipment.

Perform system setup, calibration, testing, and troubleshooting of complex lighting networks (DMX, Art-Net, sACN, etc.).

Operate lighting consoles during live events, executing cues and making real-time adjustments as needed.

Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues quickly and effectively under pressure.

Conduct pre-show checks and ensure all lighting systems are fully operational and meet safety standards.

Manage and mentor junior lighting technicians and crew members.

Ensure proper striking, packing, and inventory management of lighting equipment post-event.

Adhere to all safety regulations and best practices for working at heights and with electrical equipment. Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in Technical Theater, Lighting Design, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.

4+ years of demonstrable experience in live event lighting design and engineering, with a strong portfolio of diverse projects.

Proficiency in professional lighting design software (e.g., Vectorworks Spotlight, AutoCAD).

Expertise in operating and programming professional lighting consoles (e.g., grandMA, Hog, Avolites).

In-depth knowledge of various lighting fixtures (LED, intelligent moving lights, conventional, etc.), control protocols (DMX, Art-Net, sACN), and power distribution systems.

Strong understanding of theatrical rigging principles and safety standards.

Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, schematics, and plots.

Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to troubleshoot complex technical issues under pressure.

Strong artistic eye and a deep understanding of color theory, composition, and visual storytelling.

Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse teams and clients.

Ability to work long and irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, and to travel extensively as required.

Physical ability to lift and move heavy equipment, work at heights, and stand for extended periods. Preferred Qualifications:

Certifications in rigging, lift operation, or relevant safety training.

Experience with media servers and video integration for live events.

Knowledge of networking and IT principles as they apply to lighting systems. Benefits

Compensation:

Based on Experience

Hurricane Productions, LLC provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) in all our employment practices to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, genetic information, marital status, military status, or any other category protected by federal, state, or local laws. This includes prohibiting unlawful discrimination against those associated with or perceived to belong to a protected class, whether or not an employee actually falls into such class, Hurricane Productions EEO practices are upheld in every location that it operates and in all aspects of the employment relationship, including hiring, recruiting, placement, transfer, promotion, compensation, discipline, termination, layoff, recall, training, and leaves of absence.