Theatre Lighting Technician
In Canada, the federal government groups and organizes occupations based on a National Occupational Classification (NOC) system. This alis occupation may not reflect the entire NOC group it is part of. Data for the NOC group can apply across multiple occupations.
The NOC system is updated every 5 years to reflect changes in the labour market. Government forms and labour market data may group and refer to an occupation differently, depending on the system used. Here is how this occupation has been classified over time:
| Starting | $21.54 |
|---|---|
| Overall | $24.15 |
| Top | $26.34 |
Interest in precision working to position, set up and operate various lighting equipment to illuminate sets, studios and scenes, and to select and position equipment, manually or using a hoist
Interest in compiling information to follow cue sheets and scripts when signalling electrical crews to operate lights during filming and broadcasting
Interest in varying intensity of light using a wide range of techniques, and in repairing lighting equipment
The interest code helps you figure out if you’d like to work in a particular occupation.
It’s based on the Canadian Work Preference Inventory (CWPI), which measures 5 occupational interests: Directive, Innovative, Methodical, Objective and Social.
Each set of 3 interest codes is listed in order of importance.
A code in capital letters means it’s a strong fit for the occupation.
A code in all lowercase letters means the fit is weaker.
Lighting technicians use conventional lighting fixtures, moving head and mirror fixtures, colour filters, patterns, light modifiers and various methods of control and manipulation to create different lighting effects. In general, they:
For remote television broadcasts, lighting technicians survey locations, prepare lighting plans, arrange for the transportation of equipment and organize equipment set-up.
In smaller organizations with no lighting director or designer, lighting technicians also may:
Working conditions vary a great deal from one job to another. For example, working on a theatre production in a converted barn is very different from working in a television studio. In general, however, lighting technicians spend a lot of time on their feet and the pace of work can become hectic. Last minute changes often are required. Safety precautions must be observed at all times, particularly when handling hot lamps, climbing ladders, going up lifts, working at heights and working on electrical cables and equipment.
Hours of work also vary:
Lighting technicians routinely are required to lift and carry equipment. Occasionally, they may be required to lift equipment weighing up to 20 kilograms or more.
Lighting technicians must be able to:
They should enjoy working with tools and electric and electronic equipment on tasks requiring precision, having clear guidelines for their work and finding innovative ways to do things.
Lighting technicians need a basic understanding of electricity, colour theory, lighting equipment, light modifiers, dimmers and control desks, and must be able to apply their knowledge in a variety of situations. Some knowledge of electronics is an asset. Fall arrest certification, first aid certification or completion of the Entertainment Technician Certification Program may be required.
In the past, many lighting technicians learned on the job. However, the field is becoming more and more technical and competition for positions is keen. Most employers prefer to hire people who have related education or experience. Creative talent and training is a definite asset for lighting technicians who want to advance in the field.
The following schools offer programs or courses that are related to this occupation but are not required to enter the field.
For a broad list of programs and courses that may be related to this occupation try searching using keywords.
There is currently no provincial legislation regulating this occupation in Alberta.
Lighting technicians are employed by:
In motion picture and theatre lighting, employment may be seasonal or short term and even experienced workers may experience periods of unemployment between jobs.
Experienced lighting technicians in large organizations may advance to supervisory positions such as head electrician, lighting director or gaffer. Further advancement generally requires further education (which may be acquired through specialized workshops and seminars).
Lighting technicians are part of the larger 2011 National Occupational Classification 5226: Other Technical and Co-ordinating Occupations in Motion Pictures, Broadcasting and the Performing Arts. In Alberta, 90% of people employed in this classification work in the following industries:
The employment outlook in this occupation will be influenced by a wide variety of factors including:
Employment turnover is expected to increase as members of the baby boom generation retire over the next few years.
Rates of pay for lighting technicians vary depending on the nature of the work, location, and the skills and reputation of the worker.
Lighting technicians are part of the larger 2011 National Occupational Classification 5226: Other technical and co-ordinating occupations in motion pictures, broadcasting and the performing arts.
| Wages* | Low (5th percentile) | High (95th percentile) | Average | Median |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting | $10.67 | $30.91 | $21.54 | $21.00 |
| Overall | $10.67 | $38.46 | $24.15 | $22.50 |
| Top | $10.67 | $38.46 | $26.34 | $25.00 |
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* All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production) and other forms of compensation.
Lower Reliability, represents a CV of between 15.01% and 33.00% and/or if fewer than 20 survey observations and/or if survey observations represent less than 33% of all estimated employment for the occupation.
| Public Administration | $88,961 |
|---|---|
| ALL INDUSTRIES | $26,115 |
| Information, Culture, Recreation | $19,690 |
Entertainment Technician Certification Program (ETCP) website: etcp.esta.org
International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Locals in Calgary website: http://www.iatse212.com
International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Locals in Edmonton website: http://www.iatse210.com
For more information on career planning, education and jobs call the Alberta Supports Contact Centre toll-free at 1-877-644-9992 or 780-644-9992 in Edmonton, or visit an Alberta Supports Centre near you.
Updated Jan 09, 2013. The information contained in this profile is current as of the dates shown. Salary, employment outlook, and educational program information may change without notice. It is advised that you confirm this information before making any career decisions.