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Light Tech, 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, masks, diffusers, pattern frames, light modifiers and various methods of control and manipulation to create different lighting effects. In general, they:
For remote site film, video or television shoots, lighting technicians survey locations, prepare lighting plans, arrange for the transportation of equipment and generators, and organize equipment set-up and removal.
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 film or theatrical production in a converted barn or outdoors 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 or fixes are required often. Safety precautions must be observed at all times, particularly when handling hot lamps, climbing ladders or scaffolding, going up lifts, working at heights and handling 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 need:
They should enjoy working with tools and electric and electronic equipment on tasks requiring precision. They also should enjoy 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, and dimmers and control desks. They also must be able to apply their knowledge in a variety of situations. Some knowledge of electronics is an asset.
The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local 212 in Calgary offers courses for motion picture and theatre lighting crews. Some courses are designed for ongoing updating of skills. Other courses must be completed in order to be hired to work on certain productions.
In addition, lighting technicians may need to complete training courses provided by manufacturers of lighting equipment used during production.
Some employers may require completion of accident prevention or response training such as fall arrest and first aid.
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.
Lighting technicians need to keep up with changes in technology.
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.
Lighting technicians working as generator operators or set wiremen are subject to regulations for electricians.
Also, some employers may require staff to be Entertainment Technician Certification Program (ETCP) certified.
Lighting technicians are employed by:
In motion picture and theatre lighting, employment may be seasonal or short term. Even experienced workers may experience periods of unemployment. Some worksites may require union membership to participate.
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. Because this field is so specialized, advancing from technician to the position of lighting designer needs related post-secondary education. A bachelor’s degree or master’s degree in fine art with a specialization in theatre design is recommended.
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 [pdf] in this occupation will be influenced by a wide variety of factors including:
In Alberta, the 5226: Other technical and co-ordinating occupations in motion pictures, broadcasting and the performing arts occupational group is expected to have an above-average annual growth of 2.6% from 2019 to 2023. In addition to job openings created by employment turnover, 39 new positions are forecasted to be created within this occupational group each year.
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, the location, and the skills and reputation of the worker.
| 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 |
Swipe left and right to view all data. Scroll left and right to view all data.
* 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) Local 212 in Calgary website: www.iatse212.com
International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local 210 in Edmonton website: www.iatse210.com
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Updated May 19, 2021. 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.