Lighting Technician/Operator - THE POLAR EXPRESS Train Ride - Whippany, NJ

American Heritage Companies; Whippany (NJ); On-site; USD 29,549 - 42,085; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Catered meals for 5-show days

Comp tickets for friends and family

End-of-season bonus

Competitive pay

Job summary

Rail Events Productions in Whippany, NJ is seeking a Lighting Technician/Operator to install, operate and troubleshoot lighting systems for the Polar Express Train Ride. You will work with the Lighting Designer and production teams during pre-production, load-in, rehearsals, and the run of the event.

The role requires experience with lighting systems, ETC EOS/ION, and a proven ability to adapt to a fast-paced live event environment.

Qualifications

• Experience with theatrical/entertainment lighting systems.
• Experience with programming and operating ETC software and consoles (EOS/ION).
• Ability to work as a team member in a dynamic environment.
• Ability to work independently with strong attention to detail.
• Strong problem-solving and communication abilities.
• Willingness to work evenings and weekends.
• Physical ability to lift heavy objects.
• Must be able to travel domestically.
• Must be 18 or older.

Responsibilities

• Install and maintain lighting systems with production staff.
• Operate, maintain, and repair lighting throughout the event duration.
• Adapt to last-minute changes during rehearsals with directors and staff.
• Assist with sound systems as needed.
• Oversee load-out and return the event space to railroad standards.
• Ensure lighting designs align with national production direction.
• Follow company and railroad safety policies.
• Contribute to a positive team environment for staff and passengers.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Lighting tech

ETC EOS/ION

Team player

Independent worker

Problem solving

Communication

Cross-functional teams

Evenings/weekends

Physical stamina

Domestic travel

Age 18+

Job description

Job Details

• Location: Whippany, NJ 07981
• Position Type: Seasonal
• Salary Range: $26.00 - $26.00 Hourly
• Job Shift: Any
• Job Title: Lighting Technician/Operator

Job Summary

The Lighting Technician/Operator works with the Lighting Designer, production team and other on‑site management during pre‑production and load‑in to install all lighting systems in accordance with the system designs. They are responsible for the operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of the lighting systems during the entire run of the event. They work under the supervision of the Production Electricians and on‑site managers. Because of the nature of the live event, they may be required to assist in any event related items as required. They advise the Stage Manager and Local Production Manager of any technical or artistic needs that may arise to keep the integrity of the lighting designs.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Work with production staff to install and maintain lighting systems
• Operate, maintain, and repair the lighting systems throughout the duration of the event
• Work with the Director and production staff during rehearsals to incorporate last‑minute changes
• Assist the audio technicians with sound systems as needed
• Work with the production staff during load‑out to see that event space is returned to the railroad appropriately
• Ensure that the lighting designs are maintained according to the vision of national production staff
• Become familiar with company and railroad safety policies
• Work with the entire event team to maintain a positive, enjoyable, and rewarding environment for all staff and passengers
• Performs other duties as assigned

Experience and Requirements

• Experience as a theatrical/entertainment lighting system technician/electrician
• Experience with programming and operating ETC software and consoles (EOS/ION)
• Ability to work alongside the production staff as a team member in an ever‑changing environment
• Ability to work independently with self‑motivation and attention to detail as well as excellent organizational skills
• Demonstrated ability to anticipate, recognize and solve practical problems and resolve issues successfully
• Effective oral and written communication
• Commitment to working with shared leadership and in cross‑functional teams
• Ability and willingness to work evenings and weekends
• Be physically capable of lifting heavy objects
• Must be able to travel domestically
• Must be 18 or over

Work Environment

• Majority of time spent in an event setting
• Varied schedules requiring evenings, weekends, overtime, and holidays
• Able to stand for prolonged periods of time
• Varying temperatures and weather conditions; both indoor and outdoor
• Able to stand and walk on uneven or unsteady surfaces aboard a moving train
• Time spent in and around active railroad yard

What’s in it for you?

• Serve others and create a world of make‑believe and magic
• Competitive pay and a chance to build upon your theater network and make lifelong connections
• Enrich and positively impact the experience for all – big and small
• Be part of an inclusive team in a supportive environment with high expectations for self and your fellow teammates
• Catered meals for 5‑show days
• Comp tickets for your friends and family
• Potential for end‑of‑season bonus

Working on THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride is unlike anything you will ever do. This immersive experience is entirely unique to Rail Events Productions. The challenge of producing a full‑length production on a moving train is one of the most rewarding experiences as an artist or technician. With a total cast, crew and front‑of‑house employees of 60‑75 people onsite every day and the possibility of over 2,000 guests, our days can be chaotic. With such a fast‑paced environment, the team at Rail Events Productions takes care to properly support and teach everyone the best ways to accomplish their jobs. We strive to build a space where employees are safe and encouraged to grow throughout their time with the company.

Rail Events Productions, an American Heritage Railways subsidiary, is an Equal Opportunity Employer.