Lead Lighting Designer

Placements24; East London; On-site; ZAR 350,000 - 550,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Competitive remuneration

Leadership role

Access to cutting-edge gear

Job summary

Placements24 in East London, Eastern Cape, seeks a Lead Lighting Designer to shape stage aesthetics for theatre, concerts, and corporate events. You will lead a creative team, translate concepts into practical designs, and collaborate with directors and designers to realize artistic visions.

The role demands 7+ years in professional lighting design, proficiency with AutoCAD/Vectorworks/Lightkey, strong leadership, and a portfolio of high-profile projects. Relocation support is possible.

Qualifications

• Minimum 7 years of professional lighting design experience for theatre, concerts, or large-scale events.
• Portfolio showcasing diverse, successful lighting design projects.
• Proficiency with AutoCAD, Vectorworks, Lightkey, or ETC Console Programming.
• Extensive knowledge of DMX and Art-Net control protocols.
• Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving abilities.
• Willingness to relocate to East London, Eastern Cape.

Responsibilities

• Develop and present creative lighting concepts and designs for various productions and events.
• Create detailed lighting plots, cue sheets, and technical drawings using industry-standard software.
• Supervise the programming and operation of lighting control systems.
• Manage the selection, procurement, and inventory of lighting equipment.
• Collaborate with directors, scenic designers, costume designers, and technical crews.
• Conduct site visits and technical surveys to assess venue capabilities and requirements.
• Oversee installation, focus, and maintenance of all lighting elements.
• Lead and mentor junior lighting designers and technicians.
• Ensure lighting designs meet budget constraints and production timelines.
• Stay updated on emerging lighting technologies and design trends.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Deadline management

Tools

AutoCAD

Vectorworks

Lightkey

ETC Console Programming

DMX

Art-Net

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading name in the theatrical and event production sector, is seeking an exceptional Lead Lighting Designer to join their creative team in East London, Eastern Cape. This role is central to conceptualizing and executing innovative lighting designs that enhance visual storytelling and create immersive experiences for stage productions, concerts, and corporate events. The ideal candidate will possess a visionary approach to lighting, a comprehensive understanding of lighting technology (including conventional, LED, and automated fixtures), and the ability to translate creative concepts into practical, impactful designs. You will lead a team of technicians and collaborate closely with directors, set designers, and other production personnel to bring artistic visions to life. This is an exciting opportunity to shape the aesthetic of major productions in East London and contribute significantly to the Arts & Entertainment landscape of the Eastern Cape.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and present creative lighting concepts and designs for various productions and events.
• Create detailed lighting plots, cue sheets, and technical drawings using industry-standard software.
• Supervise the programming and operation of lighting control systems.
• Manage the selection, procurement, and inventory of lighting equipment.
• Collaborate effectively with directors, scenic designers, costume designers, and technical crews.
• Conduct site visits and technical surveys to assess venue capabilities and requirements.
• Oversee the installation, focus, and maintenance of all lighting elements.
• Lead and mentor junior lighting designers and technicians, fostering a collaborative team environment.
• Ensure lighting designs meet budget constraints and production timelines.
• Stay updated on emerging lighting technologies and design trends.

Requirements

• A minimum of 7 years of experience in professional lighting design for theatre, concerts, or large-scale events.
• Proven ability to create compelling and technically feasible lighting designs.
• Proficiency in lighting design software such as AutoCAD, Vectorworks, Lightkey, or ETC Console Programming.
• Extensive knowledge of a wide range of lighting fixtures, dimming systems, and control protocols (e.g., DMX, Art-Net).
• Experience with color theory, stage lighting techniques, and visual composition.
• Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• A portfolio showcasing a diverse range of successful lighting design projects is essential.
• Familiarity with rigging and safety procedures for stage lighting.
• Based in or willing to relocate to East London, Eastern Cape.

Benefits

• Attractive remuneration package based on experience and project scope.
• The chance to work on high-profile productions and collaborate with renowned artists.
• Exposure to diverse event types and creative challenges in the Arts & Entertainment field.
• Opportunity to lead and inspire a technical team.
• Access to cutting-edge lighting technology and equipment.
• Professional growth and development within a leading production company.
• Be a key contributor to the cultural vibrancy of the Eastern Cape.