Stages+rsquo; Lighting Manager is a key production leader responsible for the implementation, operation, maintenance, and long-term functionality of theatrical lighting in support of productions, presentations, rentals and events.
This role combines hands-on technical execution with departmental leadership and collaborates closely with directors, designers, stage management, production staff, and overhire crews to realize artistic visions while maintaining safe, efficient, and sustainable technical operations.
The Lighting Manager provides leadership for all theatrical lighting systems, infrastructure, and operations while collaborating across production disciplines. Familiarity with projection and video technologies is desirable and will support effective integration of production systems. This role will collaborate closely with the Audio Visual Manager and audio department in support of shared production electrics infrastructure and operational needs.
Some evenings and weekends are required around technical rehearsal, preview, performance rental, and event schedule.
About us
Stages makes plays and tells stories that invite everyone to live more deeply and love more boldly. We produce a broad scope of plays and musicals ranging from jukebox musicals and family entertainment to world premieres and new work by emerging writers.
Stages was founded in 1978 and we+rsquo;ve grown to become Houston+rsquo;s sixth largest nonprofit performing arts producer and the largest outside the downtown theater district. We perform year-round with an average of 10 productions and thousands of visitors each season. In January 2020, we opened our new $35.4 million three-theater home, The Gordy.
We+rsquo;re a welcoming, collaborative culture that encourages each staff member to take initiative, share ideas and help shape the organization.
About you
Collaborative and detail-oriented, you thrive working alongside artists. Any challenge is met with enthusiasm and the intersection of theater technology and art ignites your passion. Quickly adapting to shifting priorities is energizing and rigorous troubleshooting is a strength. Dedicated to education, you+rsquo;re committed to the growth of others, readily sharing knowledge and supporting the development of future arts professionals.
What you+rsquo;ll do at Stages
Collaborate with directors, lighting designers, and production teams to execute artistic visions for productions and events
Communicate with lighting designers and creative teams to successfully implement production designs and system needs
Lead implementation and operation of theatrical lighting systems for productions, presentations, rentals, and special events
Support implementation and operation of projection/video systems for productions and events
Execute and supervise company switchovers/changeovers between productions and events
Perform hands-on installation and technical implementation of audio and video systems in coordination with and under the supervision of the Audio Manager.
Ensure productions are fully prepared for technical rehearsals, previews, performances, and rentals
Maintain the artistic integrity of productions throughout performance runs through ongoing maintenance, troubleshooting, repairs, and show support
Design lighting for up to two productions per season, as assigned
Operate lighting and projection/video systems for productions, rentals, and events as needed
Supervise and provide guidance, scheduling coordination, training, and work assignments to the Lighting Technician, overhire labor, and show crews
Build, guide, and mentor cross-functional production teams, fostering collaboration, high standards, and operational efficiency.
Oversee maintenance, organization, repair coordination, and operational readiness of lighting and projection/video equipment and infrastructure
Assess inventory needs and maintain accurate equipment tracking, documentation, and replacement planning
Troubleshoot lighting consoles, dimming systems, networking infrastructure, projection systems, and related technical equipment
Coordinate with the Production Director for equipment purchases, rentals, technical research, and vendor communication within approved budgets
Maintain system documentation including inventories, patching information, channel hookups, system layouts and production paperwork
Maintain a safe, clean, and orderly work environment and follow safe work practices.
Uphold the Stages brand, culture, and EDI values in your day-to-day workflow.
Uphold anti-oppressive practices learned with our visiting artists and technicians.
Demonstrate a commitment to EDI through continuous development and participation in EDI initiatives.
Observe and comply with all company safety policies.
Other duties, as assigned.
To excel in this job, you+rsquo;ll need
Three to Five years experience leading the installation of lighting equipment
Three to Five years in a team leadership position
Lead teams with a sense of joy and enthusiasm
Programming and operation experience with advanced lighting control systems
Experience with ETC EOS-family consoles and networking systems
Understanding of low-voltage systems, networking, and theatrical infrastructure
Deep understanding of Vectorworks Spotlight drafting
Moving light technical training
Working knowledge of QLab and media playback workflows
Valid driver+rsquo;s license and the ability to operate motor vehicles.
Ability to work in diverse environmental conditions.
Deep understanding of computers, networking and software.
It would also be great to have
Media Server installation and maintenance experience
Design experience exceedingly helpful
Projection mapping experience
ETC networking certification/training
Video wall management
OSHA 10
This is important
Stages is committed to advancing equity, diversity and inclusion. We are committed to creating and maintaining a safe creative environment for staff, artists and our community. We know that through discussion and expression we can continue to promote change in a positive direction. We believe that diversity on and off stage is important. We are committed to bridging cultural gaps and creating an environment of inclusion and equity for all. It is our intent to provide equal opportunities to all who may apply. We welcome every race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, genetic makeup, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status and thinking style.
Our hiring process
First, send us some information about yourself+mdash;please include an introduction to help us understand who you are and why you+rsquo;re right for this position (eg: cover letter, email, personal statement, video) as well as anything you think might be helpful to understand your background, experience, and skills. This could include a resume, event materials, writing or other work samples, personal website, LinkedIn profile, etc.
Human Resources
Stages
800 Rosine St.
Houston, Texas 77019
humanresources@stageshouston.com
If we think you might be a good fit, we+rsquo;ll contact you to schedule an introductory interview. This conversation will help us learn about you, share more about the job and Stages, and answer your initial questions. From there, we may also invite you to talk with other staff members from positions across the organization so that you have an opportunity to explore Stages+rsquo; culture and work environment, and we can get a sense of what you+rsquo;ll bring to the team.
