Lighting Senior Manager

European Association of Zoos and Aquaria; United Arab Emirates; On-site; AED 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading international zoo association based in the United Arab Emirates seeks a Senior Lighting Designer to oversee the design and technical execution of lighting for live events and stage shows. The ideal candidate will have over 8 years of experience in live event lighting, strong proficiency with lighting control systems, and experience in large-scale environments. Responsibilities include leading design concepts, preparing lighting documentation, and ensuring compliance with safety standards. This role includes mentoring and supervising staff during productions.

Qualifications

• Proficiency in lighting control systems, particularly GrandMA and ETC EOS.
• Minimum 8 years of experience in live event lighting with supervisory experience.
• Strong visual storytelling and cueing techniques.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and delivery of lighting concepts for events.
• Oversee technical execution of lighting systems, ensuring safety and quality.
• Prepare lighting documentation including plots and cue sheets.

Skills

Lighting control systems

Leadership

Organizational skills

Visual storytelling

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Lighting Design, Technical Theatre, or related field

Tools

Vectorworks/AutoCAD

Lightwright

GrandMA

ETC EOS

Avolites

Job description

• Lead the design and delivery of lighting concepts across a wide range of live events, stage shows, and experiential activations.
• Translate creative briefs into technical lighting plots and plans.
• Program lighting using industry-standard consoles (e.g., MA Lighting, ETC EOS, etc.) for rehearsals and show runs.

Collaborate with producers, directors, choreographers, and other designers to achieve cohesive show visuals.

Project Management & Technical Oversight

Oversee the technical execution of lighting systems, ensuring efficient load-ins, set-ups, and strikes.

Prepare lighting paperwork, including plots, cue sheets, power layouts, and risk assessments.

Liaise with vendors and in-house teams for equipment rentals, installations, and maintenance.

Ensure all lighting systems meet safety, quality, and compliance standards.

Supervise and mentor lighting technicians and freelancers during pre-production and production phases.

Maintain clear communication with internal teams and external suppliers.

Contribute to vendor evaluations and support procurement processes related to lighting services.

Research and recommend new technologies and trends in lighting design and control systems.

Support the long-term planning of lighting infrastructure and show-ready systems across venues.

Qualifications, Experience and Skills

Education and Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in Lighting Design, Technical Theatre, or related field.

• Experience working in theme parks, touring shows, or large-scale venue environments.

Years of Experience

Minimum 8 years of experience in live event lighting, with at least 3 years in a senior or supervisory role.

Experience in multimedia or immersive show environments

Knowledge, Languages and Skills

Proficiency in lighting control systems (e.g., GrandMA, ETC EOS, Avolites).

Strong visual storytelling and cueing techniques.

Proficient in Vectorworks/AutoCAD, Lightwright, and console-specific software.

• Strong leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills.

Understanding of multimedia integration (video, lasers, special FX)

Working knowledge of DMX networking, timecode sync, and wireless lighting control.

This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive; you may be required at any time to perform any other duties to meet the needs of the business.