Lighting Designer | Vilar

About the role

The Vilar Performing Arts Center is seeking a Part-Time On-Call, Lighting Designer to provide lighting design, programming, show operation, and event support for a variety of performances and venue activities throughout the year.

Responsibilities

• Participate in all load-in, set-up and load-out activities as scheduled.
• Create and execute lighting for performances using the Vilar’s repertory plot.
• Design, program, and operate lighting consoles during rehearsals, performances, and other live events.
• Adapt lighting designs to fit tour specifications, production needs, or restrictions.
• Hang, circuit, address, focus, and troubleshoot lighting equipment as needed.
• Serve as the venue’s Master Electrician as scheduled.
• Tie in and support guest Lighting Designers and Master Electricians.
• Support special event lighting needs, including rentals and non-performance events, as assigned.
• Aid in maintenance, organization, and inventory of lighting equipment and related systems.
• Follow and support all venue safety practices, including electrical safety and safe rigging/work-at-height procedures.
• Collaborate with production staff, stage management, artists, and touring crews to support smooth event execution.
• Assist crew members in other production departments as needed.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent experience, preferred.
• Minimum of 3–5 years working in a Theatrical or Live Event Production–Related Field.
• Strong technical lighting skills and relevant electrical knowledge.
• Proficiency with ETC Ion and/or GrandMa consoles, or ability to provide and use a personal console at no added cost to the Vilar.
• General stagehand skills.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Strong initiative, professionalism, and creativity.
• Clear and effective communication skills.
• Ability to work independently while also part of a team.

Qualifications

• Experience with lighting design software.
• Knowledge of theatrical rigging and safety protocols.
• Understanding of venue-specific equipment and systems.

Skills

• Lighting design and programming.
• Lighting console operation.
• Electrical knowledge and safety practices.
• Collaborative teamwork and problem-solving.

Benefits

This position includes parking and access to employee ticket giveaways and lotteries. It is eligible for all benefits required under applicable federal and Colorado law, including but not limited to paid sick leave and other state-mandated programs.

Pay

$34/hr, commensurate with experience.

Schedule

This is a part-time, on-call position with a year-round appointment. Work is scheduled based on events and production needs, and hours will vary throughout the year. Scheduling demand is typically highest during the Vilar’s winter season (December to mid-April) and summer season (mid-June to mid-August). Although less frequent, this position may be scheduled to work on performances, events, maintenance work, and projects during the spring and fall shoulder seasons. As a result, some months may have lighter schedules, while others may require more consistent availability.