How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- volunteering
- broadcasters' training schemes
- specialist courses run by private training providers
University
You could do a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in:
- performing arts (production)
- lighting design
- lighting and performance technology
- technical theatre
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
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College
You could complete a college course to give you some of the skills and knowledge needed in this role.
Subjects include:
- production arts - technical theatre
- electrical installation
- T Level in Media, Broadcast and Production
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level
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Apprenticeship
You may be able to start as a trainee in this job by applying for an apprenticeship, such as:
- Creative Industries Production Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
- Installation and Maintenance Electrician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
- Audio Visual Technician Level 5 Higher Apprenticeship
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
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Work
You could qualify as an electrician and then get practical experience in production lighting, with a stage company.
Volunteering
You can look for volunteering experience with:
- lighting equipment hire companies
- theatres or concert venues
- amateur theatre
- student or community film projects
You can search for film and TV companies to approach for experience through media business listing services like PACT and The Knowledge.
Other Routes
You may be able to get training through one of the new entrant training schemes offered by broadcasters. For example:
You could also take short courses in production skills run by film schools, regional screen agencies and private training providers.
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Career tips
It's a good idea to build up a portfolio of your work so you can show potential employers. This could be on social media, showcasing productions you've worked on.
Pay for lighting technicians can vary, depending on where you work and the type of contract you have. For example, if you're on a tour or production, you might be paid a weekly rate. If you're employed by a venue, you may receive an annual salary.
Further information
You can find out more about:
- careers in production lighting from ScreenSkills
- working as a theatre lighting technician from Get Into Theatre
- creative job roles from Discover Creative Careers