How much does a Lighting Technician make?
A Lighting Technician plays a crucial role in various industries, from theater productions to film and television sets. This role involves setting up and controlling lighting for performances or productions. The average yearly salary for this job is around $52,208. It shows that this job can offer a stable income for those who work hard and excel.
Salary figures can vary based on experience, location, and the industry. Here is a breakdown of the average salaries at different experience levels:
- Newest technicians can expect to earn around $33,650 per year.
- Those with some experience can earn about $45,714 yearly.
- More experienced technicians can see salaries rise to around $69,841 per year.
- At the highest end, top-tier technicians can earn over $100,000 annually.
What are the highest paying cities for a Lighting Technician?

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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $63,654
In Los Angeles, you can expect a dynamic work environment with numerous opportunities in the entertainment industry. Hollywood is a hub for film and television, where your expertise can shine. Companies like Disney and Universal Studios offer many positions.
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Las Vegas, NV
Average Salary: $62,352
Las Vegas boasts a lively atmosphere with a steady demand for lighting in the casino and entertainment industries. Work with major hotel chains such as MGM Resorts and Caesars Entertainment. The vibrant nightlife keeps the industry bustling.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $56,173
Washington, D.C. offers a unique blend of government and entertainment sectors. You can find work with various agencies and organizations. Companies like the National Theatre and government events need skilled lighting professionals.
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Reno, NV
Average Salary: $54,682
Reno provides a smaller market but with lots of potential. Casinos and theaters need skilled hands to ensure top-notch lighting. Work with casinos like Harrah’s and various local theaters.
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Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $53,522
Phoenix has a growing entertainment sector with plenty of opportunities. The desert city offers a mix of live theater, music venues, and corporate events. Companies like the Phoenix Symphony and local theaters need your expertise.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $52,678
Denver offers a dynamic market with diverse opportunities. From theaters to concert venues, there is always a need for skilled lighting technicians. Work with the Denver Center for the Performing Arts and various music venues.
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Salt Lake City, UT
Average Salary: $51,132
Salt Lake City provides a stable job market with opportunities in both theater and corporate events. The city's growing entertainment scene offers many positions. Companies like the Utah Symphony and local theaters are always in need.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $46,362
Houston’s entertainment industry is thriving. From sports events to theater productions, there is a constant need for skilled lighting professionals. Companies like the Houston Grand Opera and various concert venues offer many positions.
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Orlando, FL
Average Salary: $45,077
Orlando offers a vibrant job market with numerous opportunities in the entertainment and theme park industries. Companies like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios need skilled lighting professionals to keep shows running smoothly.
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Raleigh, NC
Average Salary: $41,231
Raleigh provides a balanced job market with opportunities in theater and corporate events. The city’s growing arts scene offers many positions. Work with the North Carolina Theatre and various local venues.
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What are the best companies a Lighting Technician can work for?

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Nextech
Average Salary: $56,313
Nextech is a leading company in the lighting industry. They offer top-notch compensation for Lighting Technicians. Their offices are located in several cities, including Los Angeles, New York, and Chicago. At Nextech, technicians work on a variety of projects, from commercial spaces to residential homes.
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Rogers Services
Average Salary: $51,000
Rogers Services is a well-known name in lighting and audio-visual solutions. They provide a competitive salary for Lighting Technicians. They have offices in major cities such as Atlanta, Dallas, and Philadelphia. Technicians here get to work on a diverse range of projects, ensuring optimal lighting solutions for clients.
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Utility Partners of America
Average Salary: $46,294
Utility Partners of America focuses on providing comprehensive lighting solutions. They offer a solid salary for Lighting Technicians. Locations include Houston, San Francisco, and Boston. Employees work on various projects, from commercial installations to residential setups, ensuring customer satisfaction.
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Window Genie
Average Salary: $42,182
Window Genie specializes in window cleaning and exterior lighting services. They offer a fair salary for Lighting Technicians. Their presence is felt in cities like Denver, Seattle, and Minneapolis. Technicians at Window Genie work on both large-scale and small projects, enhancing the lighting of buildings.
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Outdoor Lighting Perspectives
Average Salary: $39,857
Outdoor Lighting Perspectives is dedicated to creating stunning outdoor lighting designs. They provide a decent salary for Lighting Technicians. They have operations in Portland, Miami, and San Diego. Technicians here focus on designing and installing outdoor lighting for homes and businesses.
How to earn more as a Lighting Technician?
Lighting Technicians have great opportunities to increase their earnings through several key strategies. This professional field can be highly rewarding for those who know how to leverage their skills and experiences effectively. One of the best ways to earn more is to gain experience in different types of events and venues. This makes a Technician more versatile and valuable to potential employers.
Another important factor is to seek out opportunities for professional development. Taking courses or attending workshops to learn about new lighting technologies and techniques can set a Technician apart from the competition. Networking with other professionals in the industry also plays a crucial role. Building a strong professional network can lead to more job opportunities and higher-paying positions. Certifications and specialized skills in areas like LED lighting or moving lights can significantly boost earnings. Finally, negotiating salary and seeking out roles in higher-demand markets can further enhance a Technician's income potential.
Consider these key strategies to maximize earnings as a Lighting Technician:
- Gain experience in various event types and venues
- Pursue professional development through courses and workshops
- Build a strong network within the industry
- Acquire certifications and specialized skills
- Negotiate salary and seek high-demand markets



