Lead Lighting Designer

Placements24; George; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Hybrid work

Global projects

Professional growth

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Lighting Designer for its George, Western Cape team. The role blends creative vision with hands‑on technical work across live events, theatre, and corporate productions. You will conceptualize and execute lighting designs, visit sites, and supervise on‑site programming.

The ideal candidate has a strong portfolio, 7+ years in lighting design, and proficiency with AutoCAD, Vectorworks Spotlight, WYSIWYG, and ETC consoles. Travel to locations is required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Theatre Design, Lighting Design, Fine Arts or related field.
• 7+ years of professional lighting design experience for live events/theatre.

Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, design, and develop innovative lighting schemes for events and productions.
• Create detailed lighting plots, cue sheets, and technical specifications.
• Select lighting fixtures, equipment, and control systems to meet design goals.
• Collaborate with directors, set designers and production staff to integrate lighting into the production vision.
• Manage lighting budgets to balance cost and quality.
• Oversee installation, programming, and operation of lighting during rehearsals and events.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical lighting issues promptly.
• Stay current with lighting tech, software, and design trends.
• Mentor junior lighting designers and technicians to build a collaborative team.

Skills

Live event lighting

Client collaboration

Budget management

Concept development

Mentoring

Education

Bachelor's degree in Theatre Design, Lighting Design, Fine Arts, or related

Tools

AutoCAD

Vectorworks Spotlight

WYSIWYG

ETC consoles

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned event production company, is seeking a dynamic and experienced Lead Lighting Designer to join their team in **George, Western Cape**. This hybrid role offers a unique opportunity to blend creative vision with technical expertise, designing spectacular lighting solutions for a diverse range of live events, theatre productions, and corporate functions. You will be responsible for conceptualizing, planning, and executing lighting designs that enhance the overall aesthetic and atmosphere of each event. The ideal candidate will have a strong portfolio showcasing innovative lighting designs, a deep understanding of lighting technology, and the ability to collaborate effectively with clients and production teams. This position requires a hands‑on approach, involving site visits, technical rehearsals, and on‑site supervision to ensure flawless execution. We are looking for a creative visionary who can bring illumination to life, crafting unforgettable visual experiences.

Key Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, design, and develop innovative lighting schemes for a variety of events and productions.
• Create detailed lighting plots, cue sheets, and technical specifications.
• Select appropriate lighting fixtures, equipment, and control systems to achieve design objectives.
• Collaborate closely with directors, set designers, and other production personnel to integrate lighting into the overall production vision.
• Manage lighting budgets, ensuring cost‑effectiveness without compromising on quality or artistic integrity.
• Oversee the installation, programming, and operation of lighting equipment during technical rehearsals and live events.
• Troubleshoot and resolve any technical issues related to lighting systems promptly and efficiently.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in lighting technology, software, and design trends.
• Mentor junior lighting designers and technicians, fostering a collaborative and skilled team environment.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree or equivalent professional qualification in Theatre Design, Lighting Design, Fine Arts, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of professional experience in lighting design, with a significant focus on live events and theatrical productions.
• Proficiency with industry-standard lighting design software such as AutoCAD, Vectorworks Spotlight, WYSIWYG, and ETC consoles.
• Strong understanding of electrical principles, fixture capabilities, and rigging techniques.
• Excellent visual communication skills, with the ability to present design concepts effectively.
• Proven ability to manage projects from concept to completion, including budget management.
• Exceptional problem‑solving skills and the ability to work under pressure in a fast‑paced environment.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills for effective collaboration with diverse teams and clients.
• Willingness to travel to various event locations as needed.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package and performance‑based bonuses.
• Hybrid work arrangement offering a balance between office and remote flexibility.
• Exposure to a wide range of high‑profile events and productions.
• Opportunities for professional growth and skill development.
• A creative and supportive work environment.
• Potential for international project involvement.