Role Overview
The Lighting Manager is responsible for the design, operation, and maintenance of all lighting systems within the venue. You will work closely with touring LDs (Lighting Directors) and local artists to create an immersive visual experience that elevates the music. When a touring act doesn't have their own tech, you are the lead designer, "busking" the show to match the energy of the performance.
Key Responsibilities
Show Operation: Program and operate the lighting console for nightly performances. Execute cues, color washes, and effects that sync with the musical genre and artist intensity.
System Maintenance: Perform regular "bench tech" work—repairing moving heads, replacing lamps, cleaning lenses, and troubleshooting DMX signal issues.
Rigging & Striking: Oversee the hanging, circuiting, and focusing of fixtures. Ensure all overhead rigging meets safety standards and weight load capacities.
Ad Hoc & Livehouse-Specific Projects
In a livehouse, your role often extends beyond the lighting desk. You are a core member of the production "swat team":
Emergency Stagehand Duties: Assisting with backline changeovers or helping the audio team run cables if a set transition is falling behind schedule.
Architectural/Vibe Lighting: Redesigning the ambient lighting in the bar or lounge areas for special private events or themed "club" nights.
Content Capture: Coordinating with videographers to ensure the stage lighting is "camera-ready" for live streams or promotional recordings.
Venue "MacGyvering": Fixing non-lighting electrical issues (like a broken neon sign or a flickering bar light) when the maintenance team isn't available.
Safety Marshal: During load-out, acting as a secondary safety officer to ensure heavy gear is moved through the crowd or backstage safely.
Technical Qualifications
Experience: 4+ years as a Lighting Technician or Designer in a live music or club environment.
Electrical Knowledge: Strong understanding of $P = IV$ (Power = Intensity × Voltage) for calculating circuit loads and avoiding blown breakers.
Physicality: Ability to work at heights (ladders/scaffolding) and lift fixtures weighing up to 25kg (55lbs).