Lighting Director

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee all technical and creative aspects of the Arena lighting systems, including lighting design direction, programming, show execution, system operation, and maintenance.
• Develop, document, and enforce venue lighting standards, show practices, and standard operating procedures for house and special effect lighting operation.
• Manage lighting inventory, show files, and documentation; track equipment condition, consumables, and service/repair history.
• Ensure regulatory compliance and safe operation for specialty systems (including lasers, atmospherics/haze, and effects), maintaining any required permits/variances and documentation.
• Train, manage, and lead part-time lighting staff (and other assigned lighting operators), including scheduling, coaching, and performance expectations; ensure consistent show quality, safety, and professionalism.
• Support and coordinate lighting-related integration with arena LED/digital displays and show-control elements as required to deliver a unified show presentation.
• Collaborate with Marketing/Corporate/Enterprise Divisions to develop lighting looks that support campaigns, themes, and brand standards; attend creative, production, and operations meetings as needed.
• Partner with arena engineering and building operations to ensure all house/sports lighting and infrastructure are functioning, properly maintained, and event-ready.
• Maintain the artistic integrity and consistent visual standard of all arena lighting looks across games, concerts, live shows, broadcasts, and special events.
• Participate in purchasing and rental decisions for lighting equipment and expendables; recommend upgrades/expansions and manage resources within approved budgets.
• Stay current with emerging entertainment lighting technologies; research, test, and recommend improvements to systems, workflows, and show practices that advance visual storytelling and operational efficiency.
• Advance, support, and coordinate with touring/visiting lighting teams and rental clients; integrate guest show files/rigs when applicable, and serve as the primary venue lighting contact.
• Work extended and/or irregular hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as required by event schedules.
• Support Broadcast Services and other departments with related technical projects (lighting, audio, video, digital signage, and LED systems) as assigned.

Desired Qualifications

• Education And/or Experience: Bachelor’s degree, preferably in theatrical production, entertainment technology, or a related field; an equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
• Minimum of 3–6 years of professional lighting experience, with demonstrated leadership (lead, supervisor, manager, or director level) in live events, performing arts, or venue production.
• Ability to operate, troubleshoot, and maintain a broad range of lighting equipment and infrastructure (moving lights, LED fixtures, dimmers, hazers/atmospherics, control networks) from major manufacturers.
• Knowledge of safe practices regarding rigging fundamentals, theatrical electricity, and show power distribution; familiarity with laser and pyrotechnics permitting/oversight as applicable.
• Ability to work a varied schedule, including frequent nights, weekends, and holidays; must be able to obtain/maintain a valid driver’s license if required for off-site events.
• Skills/Experience: Must possess strong creative programming and design skills as well as technical and operational knowledge of entertainment lighting systems (including programming, networking, and troubleshooting).
• Experience advancing shows with visiting productions and collaborating with internal stakeholders to deliver high-quality visual experiences.
• Proficiency with Mac and/or Windows applications (Word, Excel, Outlook) and the ability to write reports, respond to email, and create documentation related to projects and events.